All Scripture is God-breathed
and is useful for teaching, rebuking,
correcting and training in righteousness,
so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped
for every good work.
—2 Timothy 3:16-17
Influence isn’t about numbers. No, it’s about individuals. Individuals with a passion, a focus, or an intensity—or all of the above—that drives them forward. It’s this energy that attracts a following, and most men of influence down through the centuries have gained their influence through a crisis, a cause, or a mandate. In the case of the apostle Paul, it was a mandate from God to take the gospel to the Gentiles.
From the first time I heard theologian John MacArthur preach from God’s Word and observed how he viewed the importance of correctly understanding the meaning of Scripture, I saw a man on a mission. His desire was that people would develop a love for the Bible and understand how important it is to the life and faithfulness of every Christian.
Until age 30, I was one of countless Christians who had never thought much about their Bible. I, like so many others, knew many of the Bible stories but never saw their connection to my life. I also didn’t have much to do with my Bible. Oh, I was given a Bible when I was young, and I dutifully carried it to church every Sunday. But I never grasped the importance of the Bible.
It wasn’t until I observed the power and authority of the Bible in John MacArthur’s life and ministry that I longed to know the source of his power and the reasons for his convictions about the Bible. The influence of this one man and his belief in the importance of God’s Word had an impact on my life, and I still feel John’s impact on my life today, 35 years after first hearing him teach and sensing his belief in the grandness of God’s Word. I’m still being shaped by his example.
As you and I study the Bible and embrace its teachings, we too can set an example and influence countless others.
Read From Jim’s Heart—One Man’s Example and Impact on Elizabeth & Jim George.