Everybody on earth, at one point or another, will decide whether they believe the Bible or not. Therefore I conclude that either way it may be a good idea to read it, before they decide. Sadly many who call themselves Christians have never read God’s word for themselves. They may sit under a wayward shepherd and believe what he has to say, never questioning a thing, even though we are instructed to test all things and to be aware of false prophets. Perhaps this is why John makes it a point to tell us that; “… the anointing which you have received of him stays in you, and you need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teaches you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it has taught you, you shall abide in him.”[I John 2:27]
“As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that you may grow thereby:”[I Peter 2:2] “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished to all good works.”[II timothy 3:16-17] “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” [Hebrews 4:12]
“The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yes, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is your servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.”[Psalm 19:7-11] “Therefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.”[James 1: 21-22]
Often people don’t know where to start reading the Bible, or they start at the beginning like I did, only to find themselves caught up in the geneology and legalism of the old testament, which is hard to see as relevant today. Also I’ve found when starting in the New Testament, that the repetition of four accounts of the same story can be a little redundant. I later discovered that when starting in the book of John things seem to flow more smoothly. Not to mention John’s deep insight into the Holy Spirit and the relationship between God, Christ, and man is very insightful and helpful in understanding the other books as well.
So pick up The Word for yourselves. Never mind if You’ve had problems understanding it in the past, God may have since poured a fresh anointing on you. The Holy Spirit will guide you and teach you in all things, just as He has promised. Jesus said, “… the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatever I have said to you.”[John 14:26] And, “…If you continue in my word, then are you my disciples indeed;”[John 8:31]
12/19/05