A lot of pastors harp on reading the Bible. They will tell you to dedicate time everyday, often before anything else, to the reading and study of Scripture. But what’s the big deal? Is it actually crucial that we set aside time for it? And if so, why?
Here are a few reasons why the Bible is key to following God.
1. It teaches us who God is, and points us to Jesus.
If you were to ask a handful of random people who God is, you undoubtably receive an array of responses. Everyone has an idea of who God is, but not everyone’s ideas can be correct. This is why the Bible is necessary for us; it provides the ultimate guide to learning about and understanding the nature of God. It teaches us, both positively and negatively, about his attributes. While it’s possible to glean truths about God from observing nature, the Bible provides the final say regarding who he is. No where else could we learn so clearly and reliably about him and his son, Jesus.
In Scripture we find answers to life’s biggest questions – the heart felt questions that every human has written on their hearts regarding life’s purpose, their purpose, and why they desire the things that they do. Why is there suffering? Why does time and death not sit well with us? Why do we long so deeply for love and acceptance? Is there life after death? All of these questions and more are addressed in the Bible. And in addressing them the Bible shows us that being reconciled to Christ is ultimately what we desire.
C. S. Lewis once wrote,
I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.
3. It provides sound teaching on how we should live.
The Bible helps equip us for serving God. It teaches what’s necessary for salvation, why it is important to give and receive forgiveness, why we should seek knowledge and love wisdom, and what it means to be the hands and feet of Christ – how we should treat others, build community, and go into all the world with the Gospel.
For these reasons, and many more, the Bible is crucial for the Christian life. It explains who God is and why we need him and provides applicable teachings for our lives.
Also see:
Evidence for the Bible
Why the Bible? (Video)
What is God Like? 5 Attributes
Bible Resources to Grow in the Lord
