It can speak to your heart, convict you of sinfulness, comfort your soul and knock you to your knees. The Bible is an amazing book. More than just the best selling book in the world, the Bible is the very essence of God.
In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. John 1:1
Our Sunday school class just launched a study looking at the origins of the Bible. We’re taking a look at some of those questions about scripture that at times leave us scratching our heads. You know what I mean.
Who decided what books were included in the Bible? Why does the Catholic Bible have extra books? Why are there so many translations?
It amazes me that the Word of God, especially the Old Testament, has been handed down for so many generations. The same texts that the Jewish people cherished, memorized and centered their lives around is the same text and message available to us.
Holy Scripture is more than just a book or morals or a “how to” book on living right. It contains God’s communication with his people; communication that formed relationship.
Jesus makes frequent message of the scripture throughout his ministry. He told his followers he came not to abolish the law, but to fulfill it. Scripture is designed for us to study, to meditate on, to open our eyes and hearts to the very truth that is God.
Different versions and translations of the Bible have evolved over the years, many seeking to reach new readers and a larger audience. Perhaps you grew up on the good old King James version. To some people, if it’s not King James, it’s not the Bible.
I’m thankful to God that so many versions are available to spread the word and get people excited about reading, studying and learning scripture. One of the beautiful things about the Bible is that it truly is the “Living Word”.
You can read a passage of scripture that you may have read a hundred times, and still find fresh meaning and application. Certainly, as we mature and experience life itself, the Bible takes on different meaning depending on our own journey thourgh this world and experiences we encounter.
I encourage you to find a Bible that you’re comfortable with, and begin reading it daily. Bible reading is a discipline, and one that I’m often guilty of not following. But whenever I pick up my Bible, I never put it back down without gaining some new insight, knowledge or understanding of life and my own Christian walk.
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