OF THE BOOK

Christianity is known as a 'religion of the book'. Christians used to be referred to as 'people of the book'. That book is the Bible. But is this now an out-dated idea?

Mark 12:10 Have you not read this Scripture... [Jesus Christ]

Christianity is founded on the claim that the Bible is the uniquely inspired Word of God to mankind. The message of the Bible is that God created everything which He culminated in the creation of a man and a woman (Creation). But this man and woman rebelled against their Creator and tainted human race with sin (Fall). God showed mankind the demands of justice because of that Fall (Law). God sent a Redeemer to atone for mankind's sin (Cross). Christ conquered death and rose from the dead (Resurrection). On the last Day He will separate "sheep" (followers of the Shepherd) from "goats" (idolaters) as all people, living and the raised dead appear before His throne (Judgment). Those in Christ will enjoy full satisfaction for eternity whereas those outside of Christ will receive their due for eternity (Eternal destiny).

Matthew 22:29 ¶ But Jesus answered them, "You are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God."

The Bible is uniquely inspired by God. As you read it, it washes you (Ephesians 5:26). As you study it, it nourishes you (Matthew 4:4). As you ponder it patiently it, it satisfies you (Psalm 1). God has provided no other means for these much-longed for blessings.

Luke 24:27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.

The Bible claims to be true. It is not true merely because we believe it to be true. That is not what makes something true. Some people doubt the Bible and feel that they need more faith to believe the Bible. The solution to doubt is not more faith, but the truth! Truth dispels doubt. The Bible is true (John 17) and can be verified by the four tests of truth.

Are you washing daily? Are you nourishing your soul? Has your search for satisfaction been quenched by the ponderous riches of God's Sacred Word? Even if you only make reading Paul's Epistles before the end of the year your Scripture reading your goal you will benefit greatly. But a necessary warning: As you read the Bible you will encounter a completely different set of values to those of the world - of whom the Bible says that they, "hate the light" (John 3:20). Thus, you may find yourself shocked by the startling demands of Scripture to be 'other-worldly' rather than 'worldy'. But sometimes we need to be 'shocked' and 'startled' to get our hearts back into rhythm with our divine Life-Giver.

Psa. 34:8 ¶ Taste and see that the LORD is good.
Oh, the joys of those who trust in him!