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Thursday, August 20, 2015

Why Read the Bible?

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Hebrews 4:12

The next few weeks let's explore why Christians need to 
read the Bible, how to read the Bible, and the process of discernment when we study the Bible. People read the Scriptures in various ways and for a variety of reasons. Some search for truth, others seek ways to judge or defend a position; some read to acquire religious information, while others come to learn God's way and hear His instruction. The Bible, the inspired word of God, is a gift from God for the people. All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness. (2 Timothy 3:16)


The Holy Scriptures reveal the character and holiness of God, record the history of God's prophecies and their fulfillment, teach the way of repentance and redemption through Christ, establish the guidelines for righteous and holy living, and define hope as God's promise of eternal life. Christ's words in John 5:39 say the Scriptures "bear witness about Me." These sacred writings still speak God's prophecies and remind us today that no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit (2 Peter 1:21). From Genesis to Revelation, these words continue to bring God's message and reveal His purpose century after century, So shall My word be that goes out of My mouth; it shall not return to Me empty,, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it  (Isaiah 55:11). These ancient writings bring faithful instruction for every new day.

With precepts and promises, prophets and parables, God's story of redemption and restoration enfolds us. The living Word of God (Christ) reaches into the world, choosing you and me from beyond the pages of holy writings and through the ever-living word of God (the Bible). Within the pages of this ancient text, we discover God's ultimate plan for humanity. Jesus Christ, His Word in the flesh (John 1:14), proclaims God's truth and love and hope for the world. Reading this holy and living book gives us a taste of eternity and the goodness of God. From In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. (Genesis 1:1) to The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen. (Revelation 22:21), the beginning to the end, God presence and power is Sovereign. Will you study God's teachings and promises? Will you learn God's character? Will you recognize God's leading? Immerse yourself in the Bible and let God's love embrace your life. ~dho

**next week: How to Read the Bible

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