Definition: Scriptural balance refers to the harmonious and comprehensive understanding and application of biblical teachings. It involves interpreting Scripture in a way that maintains the integrity of the whole counsel of God, avoiding extremes or distortions that can arise from focusing on isolated passages without considering the broader biblical context.

Biblical Basis:

1. Whole Counsel of God: The Apostle Paul emphasized the importance of declaring the "whole counsel of God" (Acts 20:27). This implies a balanced approach to Scripture, where all parts of the Bible are considered in forming doctrine and guiding practice.

2. Avoiding Extremes: Proverbs 30:5-6 states, "Every word of God is flawless; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. Do not add to His words, or He will rebuke you and prove you a liar." This warns against adding to or taking away from Scripture, which can lead to imbalance.

3. Contextual Understanding: 2 Timothy 2:15 instructs believers to "present yourself approved to God, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." This involves understanding Scripture in its context, ensuring that interpretations align with the overall message of the Bible.

4. Jesus as the Fulfillment of the Law: Jesus Christ exemplified scriptural balance in His teachings. In Matthew 5:17 , He stated, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them." Jesus upheld the law while also revealing its ultimate purpose and fulfillment in Him.

5. Faith and Works: James 2:17 highlights the balance between faith and works: "So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead." This underscores the necessity of both belief and practice in the Christian life.

Practical Application:

1. Doctrine and Practice: A balanced approach to Scripture requires that doctrine and practice are aligned. For instance, the doctrine of grace should lead to a life of holiness, as seen in Titus 2:11-12 : "For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men. It instructs us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live sensible, upright, and godly lives in the present age."

2. Love and Truth: Ephesians 4:15 calls believers to "speak the truth in love." This balance ensures that truth is not compromised for the sake of love, nor is love neglected in the pursuit of truth.

3. Liberty and Responsibility: Galatians 5:13 advises, "For you, brothers, were called to freedom; but do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh. Rather, serve one another in love." Christian liberty is balanced with the responsibility to serve others.

4. Prayer and Action: Nehemiah exemplifies the balance between prayer and action. In Nehemiah 4:9 , it is recorded, "So we prayed to our God and posted a guard day and night to meet this threat." This demonstrates reliance on God through prayer while also taking practical steps to address challenges.

Challenges to Scriptural Balance:

1. Cultural Influences: Cultural pressures can lead to an imbalanced interpretation of Scripture, where certain teachings are emphasized or ignored to fit societal norms.

2. Personal Biases: Individual preferences and experiences can skew one's understanding of Scripture, leading to selective application of biblical principles.

3. Theological Extremes: Theological systems that overemphasize certain doctrines at the expense of others can result in an unbalanced view of Scripture.

Conclusion: Scriptural balance is essential for a faithful and effective Christian life. It requires diligent study, prayerful consideration, and a willingness to submit to the entirety of God's Word.