Love ‘Letter’ [v258]

AUGUST 2020

A LOVE LETTER is a way to express feelings of love in written form, and it’s usually a ‘demonstration’ of VERY DEEP feelings. Some ‘letters’ can TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE!

In today’s digital age, writing love letters can feel like a ‘prehistoric’ practice. But, before e-mail, text messages, and Instagram memes, couples in love would communicate through heartfelt handwritten messages. Something about the notion of writing one’s thoughts for another conveys a deep sense of ‘intimacy’. [ These days, the closest you will likely get to a ‘romantic’ note from a man is a 2 A.M. text that says: “U Up?” ;^D ].

But, despite our unfamiliarity with this very charming gesture, there was once a time when writing love letters was the most chivalrous way to win someone over. Just take a look at this movie snippet from “The Notebook” about what Noah did for proof:

[ Snippet of “The Notebook” movie:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Btxt2UTGrww ].

 

LOVE LETTERS FROM ‘FAMOUS’ PEOPLE
While jewelry and diamonds may catch the eye, words written from the heart convey your love in a more intimate way.

Love letters have been capturing the minds and hearts of civilization for centuries. The purpose remains the same—to communicate raw emotion.

Love letters as we know them today probably began in the early Renaissance, around the start of the 14th Century. The “Age of Chivalry” produced a series of discrete correspondences based on chaste compliments and courtly love. In the early 18th Century, love letters become much more personal, full of tenderness and charm.

Human beings from every time and place have sought to explain the depth of their emotion and their regard for their partner.

There have been some beautiful letters composed over the years professing one’s love for another. The following is a selection of hand-written love letters exchanged between ‘iconic’ couples throughout history.

 

General Napoleon Bonaparte to Joséphine de Beauharnais
Napoleon Bonaparte is known for his military prowess and the large empire he built following the French Revolution. When he was just a young officer, he met Joséphine, who was six years older. He wrote her love letters while he was at war, though she rarely answered them. The letter below reveals another side to this complicated man.

“I got your letter, my beloved; it has filled my heart with joy. I am grateful to you for the trouble you have taken to send me news; your health should be better today — I am sure you are cured. I urge your strongly to ride, which cannot fail to do your good.

“Ever since I left you, I have been sad. I am only happy when by your side. Ceaselessly I recall your kisses, your tears, your enchanting jealousy; and the charms of the incomparable Joséphine keep constantly alight a bright and burning flame in my heart and senses. When, free from every worry, from all business, shall I spend all my moments by your side, to have nothing to do but to love you, and to prove it to you? I shall send your horse, but I am hoping that you will soon be able to rejoin me. I thought I loved you some days ago; but, since I saw you, I feel that I love you even a thousand times more. Ever since I have known you, I worship you more every day; which proves who false is the maxim of La Bruyère that “Love comes all at once.” Everything in nature has a regular course, and different degrees of growth.

“Ah! pray let me see some of your faults; be less beautiful, less gracious, less tender, and, especially less kind; above all never be jealous, never weep; your tears madden me, fire my blood. Be sure that it is no longer possible for me to have a thought except for you, or an idea of which you shall not be the judge.

“Have a good rest. Haste to get well. Come and join me, so that, at least, before dying, we could say — ‘We were happy for so many days!!’

“Millions of kisses, and even to Fortuné, in spite of his naughtiness.

Bonaparte”

 

The ruthless French leader had a sweet side for his wife Joséphine. Although he divorced her when she could not have children, he continued to write to her. A few days after they were married, Napoleon left to command the French army near Italy. In the following months, he frequently wrote, expressing how much he missed her.

“Since I left you, I have been constantly depressed. My happiness is to be near you. Incessantly I live over in my memory your caresses, your tears, your affectionate solicitude. The charms of the incomparable Josephine kindle continually a burning and a glowing flame in my heart. When, free from all solicitude, all harassing care, shall I be able to pass all my time with you, having only to love you, and to think only of the happiness of so saying, and of proving it to you?”

————-

Ludwig van Beethoven to his Immortal Beloved
While the identity of Beethoven’s “Immortal Beloved,” to whom the iconic composer and pianist wrote a number of letters in 1812, is still largely a mystery, has long been the subject of speculation, but the letters themselves paint a very vivid picture. Many historians believe Beethoven’s “Beloved” to have been a diplomat’s daughter, named Antonie Brentano, to whom the composer dedicated his “Diabelli Variations Op. 120.” What is not questioned is the passion of Beethoven’s words. The unsent letter remained in the composer’s estate, where it was found after his death.

“Even in bed my ideas yearn towards you, my Immortal Beloved, here and there joyfully, then again sadly, awaiting from Fate, whether it will listen to us. I can only live, either altogether with you or not at all. Yes, I have determined to wander about for so long far away, until I can fly into your arms and call myself quite at home with you, can send my soul enveloped by yours into the realm of spirits — yes, I regret, it must be. You will get over it all the more as you know my faithfulness to you; never another one can own my heart, never — never! O God, why must one go away from what one loves so, and yet my life in W. as it is now is a miserable life. Your love made me the happiest and unhappiest at the same time. At my actual age I should need some continuity, sameness of life — can that exist under our circumstances? Angel, I just hear that the post goes out every day — and must close therefore, so that you get the L. at once. Be calm — love me — today — yesterday.

“What longing in tears for you—You—my Life—my All—farewell. Oh, go on loving me—never doubt the faithfullest heart.
“Of your beloved

“L

“Ever thine.
Ever mine.
Ever ours.”

————-

John Keats to Fanny Brawne
John Keats met Fanny Brawne in late 1818 when he moved next door to the Brawne family, and it wasn’t long before Keats was head-over-heels in love with Fanny. Marriage would never work between them because, according to sources, he didn’t have enough money and his friends didn’t approve; however, he loved her and continued to write love letters brimming with emotion to her for three years.

“My love has made me selfish. I cannot exist without you – I am forgetful of every thing but seeing you again – my Life seems to stop there – I see no further. You have absorb’d me…I would be martyr’d for my Religion – Love is my religion – I could die for that – I could die for you…”

————-

Zelda Fitzgerald to F. Scott Fitzgerald
The Fitzgeralds wrote a great deal of wonderful letters to one another over the course of their tumultuous relationship. Zelda’s eccentric personality and her way with words shine in this letter.

“I look down the tracks and see you coming—and out of every haze & mist your darling rumpled trousers are hurrying to me—Without you, dearest dearest I couldn’t see or hear or feel or think—or live—I love you so and I’m never in all our lives going to let us be apart another night. It’s like begging for mercy of a storm or killing Beauty or growing old, without you. I want to kiss you so—and in the back where your dear hair starts and your chest—I love you—and I can’t tell you how much—To think that I’ll die without your knowing—Goofo, you’ve got to try [to] feel how much I do—how inanimate I am when you’re gone—I can’t even hate these damnable people—Nobody’s got a right to live but us—and they’re dirtying up our world and I can’t hate them because I want you so—Come Quick—Come Quick to me—Lover, Lover, Darling—Your Wife”

————-

Winston Churchill to His Wife Clementine
British Prime Minister Winston Churchill and his wife Clementine were married for 56 years and wrote to each other whenever they were apart.

“My darling Clemmie, in your letter from Madras you wrote some words very dear to me, about having enriched your life. I cannot tell you what pleasure this gave me, because I always feel so overwhelmingly in your debt, if there can be accounts in love…What it has been to me to live all these years in your heart and companionship no phrases can convey.”

————-

Frida Kahlo to Diego Rivera
The strong emotions associated with love can be confusing and polarizing. This is evident in the letters between Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. While their marriages were notoriously tumultuous, their love for one another is unquestionable, albeit sometimes difficult to interpret.

“Diego.

Truth is, so great, that I wouldn’t like to speak, or sleep, or listen, or love. To feel myself trapped, with no fear of blood, outside time and magic, within your own fear, and your great anguish, and within the very beating of your heart. All this madness, if I asked it of you, I know, in your silence, there would be only confusion. I ask you for violence, in the nonsense, and you, you give me grace, your light and your warmth. I’d like to paint you, but there are no colors, because there are so many, in my confusion, the tangible form of my great love.

F.”

————-

Orson Welles to Rita Hayworth
“Dearest Angel Girl:

“…I suppose most of us are lonely in this big world, but we must fall tremendously in love to find it out. The cure is the discovery of our need for company — I mean company in the very special sense we’ve come to understand since we happened to each other — you and I. The pleasures of human experience are emptied away without that companionship — now that I’ve known it; without it joy is just an unendurable as sorrow. You are my life — my very life. Never imagine your hope approximates what you are to me. Beautiful, precious little baby — hurry up the sun! — make the days shorter till we meet. I love you, that’s all there is to it.

“Your boy,

Orson”

————-

Richard Burton to Elizabeth Taylor
Richard Burton fell in love with Elizabeth Taylor the moment he saw her on set of the 1963 epic Cleopatra. Their love affair was both celebrated and vilified, but the passion between the two movie stars could not be denied. The pair became Hollywood royalty.

“My blind eyes are desperately waiting for the sight of you. You don’t realise of course, E.B., how fascinatingly beautiful you have always been, and how strangely you have acquired an added and special and dangerous loveliness.”

————-

Marilyn Monroe to Joe DiMaggio
“I don’t know how to tell you just how much I miss you. I love you till my heart could burst. All I love, all I want, all I need is you—forever. I want to be just where you are and be just what you want me to be. I know it’s lousy of me to be so late so often, and I promise to try a million times harder, I promise. Love, Marilyn”

————-

Johnny Cash’s letter to June Carter Cash
This sweet birthday letter doesn’t use any floral language or metaphors. There is something deeply endearing about the straightforward nature of this note from Johnny Cash to his beloved wife.

“Happy Birthday Princess,

“We get old and get use to each other. We think alike.

“We read each other’s minds. We know what the other wants without asking. Sometimes we irritate each other a little bit. Maybe sometimes take each other for granted.

“But once in awhile, like today, I meditate on it and realize how lucky I am to share my life with the greatest woman I ever met. You still fascinate and inspire me.

“You influence me for the better. You’re the object of my desire, the #1 Earthly reason for my existence. I love you very much.

“Happy Birthday Princess.

John”

————-

President Ronald Reagan to First Lady Nancy Reagan
“Dear St. Valentine,

“I’m writing to you about a beautiful young lady who has been in this household for 25 years now—come March 4.

“I have a request to make of you but before doing so feel you should know more about her. For one thing she has 2 hearts—her own and mine. I’m not complaining. I gave her mine willingingly, and like it right where it is. Her name is Nancy but for some time now I’ve called her Mommie and don’t believe I could change.

“My request of you is—could you on this day whisper in her ear that someone loves her very much and more and more each day? Also tell her, this “Someone” would run down like a dollar clock without her so she must always stay where she is.”

 

A ‘LOVE LETTER’ IN THE BIBLE
The Song of Solomon, found in the Old Testament, is the ‘voice’ of two lovers praising each other. It is a unique example of sexuality in historical, religious writings:

He
“How beautiful you are, my darling,
How beautiful you are!
Your eyes are like doves behind your veil;
Your hair is like a flock of goats
That have descended from Mount Gilead.

“Your teeth are like a flock of newly shorn ewes
Which have come up from their washing,
All of which bear twins,
And not one among them has lost her young.

“Your lips are like a scarlet thread,
And your mouth is lovely.
Your temples are like a slice of a pomegranate
Behind your veil.

“Your neck is like the tower of David,
Built with rows of stones
On which are hung a thousand shields,
All the round shields of the mighty men.

“Your two breasts are like two fawns,
Twins of a gazelle
Which feed among the lilies.

“Until the cool of the day
When the shadows flee away,
I will go my way to the mountain of myrrh
And to the hill of frankincense.

“You are altogether beautiful, my darling,
And there is no blemish in you.

“Come with me from Lebanon, my bride,
May you come with me from Lebanon.
Journey down from the summit of Amana,
From the summit of Senir and Hermon,
From the dens of lions,
From the mountains of leopards.

“You have made my heart beat faster, my sister, my bride;
You have made my heart beat faster with a single glance of your eyes,
With a single strand of your necklace.

“How beautiful is your love, my sister, my bride!
How much better is your love than wine,
And the fragrance of your oils
Than all kinds of spices!

“Your lips, my bride, drip honey;
Honey and milk are under your tongue,
And the fragrance of your garments is like the fragrance of Lebanon.

“A garden locked is my sister, my bride,
A rock garden locked, a spring sealed up.

“Your shoots are an orchard of pomegranates
With choice fruits, henna with nard plants,

“Nard and saffron, calamus and cinnamon,
With all the trees of frankincense,
Myrrh and aloes, along with all the finest spices.

“You are a garden spring,
A well of fresh water,
And streams flowing from Lebanon.”

She
“Awake, O north wind,
And come, wind of the south;
Make my garden breathe out fragrance,
Let its spices be wafted abroad.
May my beloved come into his garden
And eat its choice fruits!”
[ Song of Solomon 4:1-16 ]

 

The “Song of Solomon” (or “Song of Songs”) is the Bible’s definitive book on love, sex, and marriage, and it is filled with sexually colorful images. It is highly sensual in a sanctified and God-blessed way. Since God invented love, sex, and marriage, He intends His people to enjoy the blessings He invented, and the Song of Songs leaves no doubt about that.

Solomon wrote 1005 “songs,” but this is said to be his best. The story involves Solomon, who owned vineyards in the Galilee (8:11), and a peasant girl from Shulam (6:13), who was working among the vines and was bullied by her brothers (1:6). When Solomon came into the area to check on his flocks (1:7), he saw the girl in the vines and it was love at first sight.

The story then goes on to tell of how the couple falls in love, how they are engaged, describes the royal wedding, their honeymoon, and then their ‘falling out’. It continues with their ‘make up’, which is ‘intense’! (Their love is so stirring that they end with another warning to readers about yielding to the temptation of premarital sex).

Even though misunderstandings and conflicts will occur during a marriage, when a couple is committed to God’s perfect plan for marriage and life, nothing can quench the love God gives them, one for the other.

 

THE BIBLE IS GOD’S ‘LOVE LETTER’
Let me just ask you a quick question. Back when you were falling in love with someone, and you got a love letter from them, did you ‘speed read’ or ‘skim’ it? I’m thinking not. You read every word, slowly, so you wouldn’t miss a thing. All the metaphors ‘touched’ your soul.

Then, you read it over, again and again, to be sure you didn’t miss anything. You let every word ‘soak in’. That’s exactly what the Bible is for the believer. It’s God’s ‘love letter’ to His ‘children’.

 

Now, to be ‘rigorous’ the Bible is a love letter FROM God…that is ALL ABOUT God. In other words, because God loves us so much, He revealed Himself to us through the Bible.

The Bible is ‘revelatory’. It tells us things about God that we could never know otherwise. It brings into the ‘war room’ of God’s grand plan for salvation, and it removes the spiritual ‘cataracts’ from our eyes to show us who God is and how we can know Him.

 

So, most importantly, the Bible is ALL ABOUT JESUS. The Scriptures ‘speak’ of Him. On the road to Emmaus, Jesus is speaking to some disciples and “explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning Himself” [ Luke 24:27b ].

 

In another instance, Jesus says, “You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you will find life, but these are they that testify about Me” [ John 5:39 ]. Beware! You can master the Scriptures, but you will not find life in the Scriptures unless you meet the life-giver in the Scriptures (“yet you refuse to come to me to have life” [ John 5:40 ]). If you ‘believe’ in Jesus, you ‘belong’ to God.

So, God has revealed Himself through THE Word, which talks about His Son, Jesus Christ. As one reads Scripture, they are learning more about Jesus and encountering Him. They will see His ways, His goodness, His love, His power, His glory, and His purity. As we get to know Him better, they will know more ‘intimacy’ with Him.

[ FYI: Last month’s “Life’s Deep Thoughts” discussed God’s presence and what happens when it is ‘withdrawn’: https://markbesh.wordpress.com/presence-withdrawn-v257/ ].

 

It’s been said that what you spend your time scrutinizing you will ‘become’. If you spend lots of time with someone, it’s not long before you start to pick up their mannerisms and quirks. So, it is the same with the Bible—but it’s more ‘powerful’. “We all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another” [ 2 Corinthians 3:18 ]

The Bible reveals the mercy, grace, and loving-kindness of God, our need for a Savior, God’s great love for us, and absolutely everything we need to know to live our earthly lives and to “be conformed to the image of [God’s] Son, Jesus [ Romans 8:29b ].

 

Christians read the Bible ‘looking’ for Jesus to learn more about Him, and to understand His ways. The better we know Jesus, the more we will love Him, and the clearer the application of biblical principles will be in our lives.

 

There’s nothing more special than a love letter–words that gift us with the knowledge that someone cares just for us. That someone loves us just the way we are, with our accomplishments, our failures, our highs, our lows, our hopes, and our despairs.

A love letter is GREAT, but the ULTIMATE ‘EXPRESSION’ of someone’s love for you is to ‘die’ for you. THAT’S what Jesus did for YOU! He died to forgive us for our sins and reconcile us to God, our loving Father, and resurrected to give us ‘life’. This is the PERFECT LOVE that we ALL are longing for!

 

GOD ‘SPEAKS’ TO US THRU THE BIBLE
As I mentioned previously, the Bible can be read as a personal letter ‘from’ God to us. This analogy was eloquently advocated by the philosopher Søren Kierkegaard:

“My listener, how highly do you value God’s Word? … Imagine a lover who has received a letter from his beloved. I assume that God’s Word is just as precious to you as this letter is to the lover. I assume that you read and think you ought to read God’s Word in the same way the lover reads this letter.”

 

When I open my Bible, it never ceases to amaze me that God wants me to ‘hear’ from Him, personally. Now, it’s not that I expect to hear an ‘audible’ voice, but, from time to time, I have an intuitive ‘sense’ that what I just read was written just to me, “for a time such as this” (Esther 4:14). [ Of course, one must always “test the spirits” ].

 

When I read, “Love one another, even as I have loved you” [ John 13:34 ], this comes across to me as both absolutely trustworthy and authoritative—and in no way can I ‘escape’ it. In my way of thinking, God just ‘spoke’ to me! Most of the time this is very ‘timely’, since it prompts me to do something—like considering to apologize to someone that I recently ‘hurt’—and usually I read this the day of or the next day after I did the ‘deed’. I think, “Wow, that was amazing timing!” Hmmm.

Theologian Karl Barth said, “I have read many books, but the Bible reads me.”

 

THE BIBLE IS NOT JUST ‘ANOTHER’ BOOK
Well, the Bible says this about itself: “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work” [ 2 Timothy 3:16-17 ]. So, even though everyone needs to determine this for themselves. It’s great that there are many compelling reasons that it just might be. The following are a few for you to consider.

 

First off, there are ‘direct’ claims by the Bible. It actually claims to be the Word of God and not the words of men. It says it is “breathed out by God.” These words are translated from one Greek word, “theopneustos.” “Theos” means God, and “pneustos” means breath or spirit. So, this means that God literally ‘breathed out’ the Scriptures as it was recorded by ‘secondary’ human authors. The authors were ‘moved’ by the Holy Spirit (2 Peter 1:21)

So, the Bible says it is the product of a supernatural, divine operation. The authors were very aware that their message did not originate within themselves. The Apostle Paul said, “For I received from the Lord that which I delivered to you” [ 1 Corinthians 11:23 ].

 

The Apostle Peter says the same thing in a similar way: “For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit” [ 2 Peter 1:21 ].

Pastor and seminary professor Calvin Miller gave this explanation:

“The Bible is not God’s Word dictated as though God were the CEO of heaven, ordering His human riders to lay aside their distinctive personhood. No, quite to the contrary. He allowed them their individualism as they were carried along by the Spirit. There’s something of buoyancy in this idea. After all, that’s what inspiration is—it’s buoyancy.

“It’s a quality of buoyancy see that whisks us along like a leaf on the surface of a river. The leaf loses none of its integrity but the river is what really matters. It’s the river that motivates both the direction of the leaf, the speed of the leaf, and the destination of the leaf.

“So, let’s suppose that each of the writers in the Bible is a different kind of leaf. For indeed they were. Jeremiah was a poetic leaf. Amos a rustic shepherd leaf. Mark a journalistic reporter leaf. Luke a doctor leaf. Paul a legal leaf. Each leaf differs as a maple leaf differs from a poplar leaf or a cottonwood leaf. So, when we read each of these biblical writers, we can tell immediately who the writer is, their individual mannerisms of thought, their unique style. We recognize it instantly. But in spite of their literary differences, we can see that each of them was moved by the same mighty river of the Spirit that flows through all of Scripture. It is the stream that is its authority. It guarantees that all the leaves have the same motivator. They all flow in the same direction. None of them may be accused of being subject to error, as though they were at liberty to move against the stream.”

 

Can you imagine a leaf going upstream? There is as much a chance of a leaf going upstream as there is of a biblical author writing something incorrectly—because they were ‘carried along’ by the Spirit. It was God-breathed. It was inspired.

 

Secondly, there’s the perfect ‘unity’ of the Bible in the midst of its diversity. The Bible is a ‘compilation’ of 66 ‘books’ (letters), written over a period of some 1,500-1,600 years, by 40 different authors on three different continents, and writing in three different languages.

Now, just consider the diversity of its authors: Kings, priests, a physician, fishermen, shepherds, statesmen, a tax collector, a military general, a scribe, a cupbearer, a goat herder, and a former Pharisee.

Also consider the diversity of the literary genre: Narrative, poetry, prophecy, proverb, parable, epistle, allegory, song, legal writings, and Gospel.

Consider the diversity of where these letters were written: Specifically, the desert, palaces, a cave, beside a river, on a barren island, and in the lands of Israel, Egypt, Macedonia, Greece, and Rome.

There are almost 3,000 different ‘cast members’ in the storyline, spanning some 1,189 chapters, comprising some 31,000 verses, requiring more than 700,000 words (in the English translation). YET, despite all this complex diversity, this book speaks of one plan of salvation, one people of God, one story of human history, one problem of mankind, one solution for this problem, one standard of morality, one design for the family, and one chief object of its message. It always speaks with ONE ’VOICE’, and never contradicts itself.

The question is, “How can you account for this unity in the midst of such vast diversity?” For me, the only reasonable explanation is that there is one Author who ‘stands’ outside of time—and that Author is God Himself.

Pastor and author Dr. Steven Lawson illustrates this in this way:

“Suppose every state in the union was asked to excavate its natural stone, box it in a crate, put it on a railroad car and send it to the nation’s capital. All 50 states would participate. There came crates containing limestone. Other states would send marble. Other states would send sandstone. Other states would send granite.

“Once those trains arrive in Washington, D.C., they are uncrated, and they are all brought together. They are all of different size and shape. Some are square. Some are rectangular. Some are cubical. Some are a cylinder form.

“As they are brought together, all 50 stones interface perfectly, and perfectly comprise a replica of the Jefferson Memorial monument with its domes, with its sidewalls, with its buttresses, with its arches, and with its transepts. Not a gap, not a flaw, nothing missing. A perfect, perfect fit.

“How would you account for that? For any thinking person who had two brain cells that might be touching one another between their two ears, the only explanation that you could come to is that there was a master architect behind the entire project, who had sent out specific measurements for what he desired, and as it all came together, he oversaw the project so that it would fit together. You would have to assume that there was one major architect.”

 

So it is with the Bible. Every doctrine, every truth, every principle, every practice, every standard of ethics, all fitting together to form one ‘temple’ of truth. I have also heard this illustrated as an explosion in a print shop with all of the letters just happening to land on the ground and form the Oxford English Dictionary, without a mistake, in perfect alphabetical order, and without any misspelled words. Do you think that would just happen? I’m thinking ABSOLUTELY NOT! So, for me—and many others—the Bible is ‘INSPIRED’ by God.

 

Thirdly, there is a reliable ‘transmission’ of the Bible from antiquity. Far more than ANY OTHER book of antiquity, the Bible has been passed down to us with extraordinary ‘precision’ over thousands of years.

The Bible has almost 6,000 early Greek manuscripts (for the New Testament), and another 10,000+ copies of the Latin Vulgate (to say nothing of Syriac and other Semantic languages).

So, when we compare this with other ancient books written at the same time, it’s really embarrassing. For example, let’s just take Homer, who lived 800 B.C. For his “Iliad,” we have a few hundred manuscripts, and the earliest one we can put our hands on is written 2,100 years after the original. For Aristotle’s “Poetics,” we have less than a dozen manuscripts, and the earliest one that we can go back to is over 1,000 years after its original writing. For Julius Caesar’s “Gallic Wars,” there are less than a dozen copies and it is over 1,000 years between the last writing and the first manuscript we can put our hands on.

HOWEVER, when we come to the New Testament, the earliest document that we have that has pieces of the Old Testament, it’s not 2,100 years, not 1,000 years, it’s ONLY 50 YEARS. THEN, the earliest copy of an ENTIRE New Testament is just some 200 years! The total number of copies are not six or seven (for Homer and Plato), it’s OVER 6,000 COPIES!

For me, it’s RIDICULOUS that people have the audacity to question the authenticity of the New Testament. If the Bible is not considered reliable and trustworthy, then NO ancient book should ever be considered trustworthy either!

The Bible is UNSURPASSED for any books of antiquity at any level!

 

Fourthly, the historical accuracy of the Bible is amazing. British biblical scholar F.F. Bruce said that, “One of the most remarkable tokens of Luke’s accuracy is his sure familiarity with the proper titles of all the notable persons who are mentioned in its pages. This was by no means an easy feat in his day as it would be in ours because he had… it was not so simple to consult convenient books of reference.”

Bruce goes on to talk about as Luke records the book of Acts, not only is he geographically spot on at every point without having an atlas in front of him, but that as he addresses the various titles of Roman officials, he does so with absolute perfection.

Many of the original Roman leaders were moving up the ‘ladder’—with their titles changing all the time—and every time Luke records them, he had them exactly correct. He never made a mistake historically.

In addition to that, there have been more than 25,000 archaeological digs related directly to the subject matter of the Bible, and NOT ONE of them has ever contradicted anything that is in the Bible, AND an overwhelming majority of them have confirmed and affirmed things that we find in the Bible.

There has NEVER BEEN a book in antiquity with the historical accuracy of the Bible!

 

Fifthly, the scientific accuracy of the Bible is incredible, and it is shown in the first chapter and first verse of the Bible—Genesis 1:1: “In the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth.”

A very famous scientist, Herbert Spencer, (who died in 1903), announced that everything in the universe fits into one of five categories: Time, force, action, space, and matter. Well, “In the beginning,” (time) “God” (force) “created” (action) “the heaven” (space); “and the earth.” (matter). So, in the very first opening line of the Bible, there is this scientifically accurate statement that accounts for everything! (The scientific world is always ‘catching up’ with the Bible).

In 1492, it was said that if Columbus sailed through the straits of Gibraltar, that he would go over the ‘edge’. They thought the world was flat at that time. Yet, about 2,000 years before that, the prophet Isaiah recorded, “It is He who sits above the circle of the earth.” The Bible identified the earth as being a globe. How did Isaiah know this? Well, holy men of the Old Testament spoke as they were ‘moved’ by the Holy Spirit (just as the Apostles were).

The Bible also says that the earth is “suspended in space,” that the earth rotates on an ‘axis’, and it goes around the sun. It also describes the whole evaporation process, and that life is in the blood. ALL of the Bible’s scientific statements have been PROVEN 100% CORRECT!

 

Sixthly, of the prophecies that have been fulfilled in the New Testament, ALL OF THEM were fulfilled EXACTLY as the Old Testament prophecy stated them!

At the time the Bible was written, 27% of the Bible was prophetic (There are approximately 2,500 prophecies that appear in the pages of the Bible, and about 2,000 of which have already have been fulfilled to the letter—with NO ERRORS!).

Now, clairvoyants (such as Jeanne Dixon, Edgar Cayce, and Nostradamus), mediums, spiritists, and others, sometimes make remarkable predictions, they rarely do so with more than about 60% accuracy, but NEVER with total accuracy. However, God is the ONLY ONE, who has forecasted ALL future events at 100% ACCURACY! God knows the future since, as the Bible says, He ‘FOREORDAINS’ everything the future, and He records some of it in the Bible for us to see!

[ FYI: To get an idea of the amazing probabilities of the chance of their fulfillment, this article, by Dr. Hugh Ross, takes a look at 13 prophecies with ‘impossible’ probabilities:
https://reasons.org/explore/publications/tnrtb/read/tnrtb/2003/08/22/fulfilled-prophecy-evidence-for-the-reliability-of-the-bible ].

 

There are 400 ‘SPECIFIC’ PROPHECIES concerning Jesus’ birth, life, death, and resurrection—some of which were made well over 2,000 years prior to His birth, and EVERY ONE OF THEM have been FULFILLED EXACTLY AS PROPHESIED! Now that’s a ‘source’ you CAN TRUST!

To give you an idea of how ‘improbable’ the accuracy of the Bible really is, Peter Stoner in “Science Speaks” (Moody Press, 1963) used the modern science of probability and determined that “the chance that any man might have lived down to the present time and fulfilled ONLY eight prophecies about Jesus is 1 in 10 to the 17th power.” (That would be 1 in 100,000,000,000,000,000).

In order to help you comprehend this staggering probability, Stoner gave an illustration of how small of a probability this really is:

He said, “I want to give you an idea of what 1 in 10 to the 17th is. Let’s fill the state of Texas knee deep in silver dollars. Then fly over the state and flip out one silver dollar that has a black check mark on it. Then turn lose 10,000 bulldozers and let them just bulldoze around the state for about 10 years and get those silver dollars really mixed up. And then take a guy and blindfold him. The odds that on the first draw he will reach down and pick up the silver dollar with the black check mark is 1 in 10 to the 17th power.” Totally unthinkable, right? Well, that’s the probability for ONLY EIGHT prophecies about Jesus coming true! Every one of these are validations of the inspiration, infallibility, authority, and inerrancy of the Bible, and that it is a ‘supernatural’ book!

[ FYI: View this previous “Life’s Deep Thoughts” post to see the details of these eight prophesies: https://markbesh.wordpress.com/trusted-prophecies-v167/ ].

 

The most powerful prophecy that I know of in the Bible, is found in Isaiah 53. This is one ‘amazing’ chapter. It is the most specific, detailed, and precise prophecy that has full, historical verification 700 years after it was written.

Isaiah 53 speaks of a messianic prophecy that is fulfilled by Jesus. It speaks of one known as the “suffering servant,” who suffers because of the sins of others. Jesus is said to fulfill this prophecy through His death on the Cross. It mentions that this “Servant” will “be lifted up,” his appearance was so disfigured,” “marred beyond human likeness,” “would be disfigured by suffering,” “would come from humble beginnings,” “would be rejected by many,” “a man of sorrows,” pierced,” “did not open His mouth,” “would bear our sins and suffer in our place,” “voluntarily took our punishment upon himself,” “remained silent during his suffering,” “would die,” “would be buried with a rich man,” “would not remain dead, but see his seed, prolong his days and be exalted,” and “by His stripes we are healed.” Hmmm… to me, it sounds like Jesus dying on the Cross and resurrecting three days later.

Isaiah 53 is so consistent with Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John that it has been called the “Fifth Gospel.” But I don’t think that’s the right title. I think it should be called the “First Gospel” (since it pre-dates the Apostles).

 

Seventhly, Jesus acknowledged that the Old Testament was ‘of’ God.

It is, by common consensus, that the greatest man who has ever lived on the planet was Jesus Christ. Even ‘false’ religions acknowledge the greatness of Jesus.

Theologian James Montgomery Boice said that, “The most important reason for believing the Bible to be the Word of God written and hence the sole authority for Christians in all matters of faith and conduct is the teaching of Jesus Christ.” So, what did Jesus have to say about the Bible? Well, He said, “For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished” [ Matthew 5:18 ]. Jesus is claiming the inerrancy and authority of the Bible. Essentially Jesus said that it would be easier for the whole universe to go out of existence then for one little ‘marking’ on one letter of one word in the original autographs in the Bible to fail! (Every word in the original ‘autographs’ were free from error, falsehood, mistake, or inaccuracy).

 

Eighthly, is the amazing ‘indestructibility’ of the Bible. The prophet Isaiah said that, “The grass withers, the flower fades away, but the Word of our God abides forever” [ Isaiah 40:8 ]. Kings have banned the Bible. Emperors have forbidden it. Critics have assailed it. Philosophers have denounced it. Atheists have assaulted it, and infidels have mocked it. But, it’s still here.

The French skeptic, Voltaire, who was so influenced by the agnostic John Locke, said centuries ago, “One hundred years from my day, there will not be a Bible on the earth, except one that is looked upon as an antiquarian by an antiquarian curiosity seeker.” Fifty years after Voltaire’s death, the Geneva Bible Society purchased Voltaire’s house, moved in their printing presses, and began to printing Bibles!

Two hundred years later, (on Christmas Eve, 1933), the British government paid the Russian government $510,000 for just ONE ancient copy of the Bible! On that very same day, a first edition of Voltaire was sold on the streets of Paris, for 11 cents!

The Bible is indestructible, irresistible, inexhaustible, unquenchable, unconquerable, and uncontainable! Jesus said, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away” [ Mark 13:31 ].

 

Ninth, the ethical superiority of the Bible is stunning. This book has a ‘transcendent’ moral code, and its moral ethic surpasses anything else that has EVER been written!

Pagan religions were known for their ‘desecration’ of morality, but we read in the Bible, “Honor your father and mother. You shall not murder. You shall not commit adultery. You shall not steal. You shall not bear false witness.” We don’t pick up this book and read things like (in other religious books), “Go kill the infidels.” We pick up this book and read, “Love your enemies. Love your wives. Love your children.”

Think of all that has come from the Bible: The sanctity of human life; Racial equality; The dignity of women; Good citizenship; Social justice; Legal equity; Selfless service; Individual integrity; and hard work. Everything that is right and decent and honorable is set forth in the Bible, and its very law is “written upon our hearts” (Jeremiah 31:33; Hebrews 8:10; Hebrews 10:16).

 

Tenth, the Bible is ‘supernatural’. This book ‘separates’, purifies, prunes, convicts, comforts, and guides. “The law of the Lord is perfect, restoring the soul. The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple” [ Psalm 19:7 ]. The Bible is a ‘seed’. It contains the ‘germ’ of life. IT is a “lamp to my feet and a light to my path” [ Psalm 119:105 ].

NO OTHER ‘BOOK’ can tell me how to be ‘right’ with God and how to live the ‘abundant’ life. NO OTHER ‘BOOK’ tells me about myself and makes the right diagnosis of my spiritual condition before God. NO OTHER ‘BOOK’k can look beyond the grave and tell me where I am headed!

We read other books, and sometimes just yawn. BUT, when the believer reads the Bible, something happens ‘inside’ of them. The Holy Spirit, Who ‘wrote’ this book ‘speaks’ to them! Now, I’ve read other “great” books, BUT this book ‘READS’ ME! (Hebrews 4:12-13).

 

The Reformer Martin Luther said, “The Bible cannot be understood simply by study or talent. You must count on the influence of the Holy Spirit.” Then another Reformer, Ulrich Zwingli said, “Even if you received the gospel of Jesus Christ directly from an apostle, you cannot act according to it unless your heavenly Father teaches you.” Hmmm.

Even another Reformer, John Calvin, held the same view that the Word of God is believed when God regenerates the heart: “The testimony of the Spirit is superior to reason.” Now that’s a very important statement. The words of Scripture ARE NOT UNDERSTOOD until the believer is ‘sealed’ by the Holy Spirit.

Calvin continues, “Let it therefore be held as fixed, that those who are inwardly taught by the Holy Spirit acquiesce implicitly in Scripture; that Scripture, carrying its own evidence along with it, deigns not to submit to proofs and arguments, but owes the full conviction with which we ought to receive it to the testimony of the Spirit. Enlightened by him, we no longer believe, either on our own judgment or that of others, that the Scriptures are from God; but, in a way superior to human Judgment, feel perfectly assured—as much so as if we beheld the divine image visibly impressed on it—that it came to us, by the instrumentality of men, from the very mouth of God. We ask not for proofs or probabilities on which to rest our Judgment, but we subject our intellect and judgment to it as too transcendent for us to estimate.”

 

This book ‘transforms’ the prideful into the humble, the broken are made whole, the weak are made strong, and the tearful are made courageous.

Again, Martin Luther said, “This book is alive. It speaks to me. It has feet; it runs after me. It has hands; it lays hold of me.” Is this just another book? Well, I and MANY OTHERS don’t think so!

 

There’s a beautiful paragraph, found in the introduction of every Bible produced by the remarkable Gideon’s International, that says this:

“The Bible contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers.

“Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and its decisions are immutable.

“Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy.

“It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you.

“It is the traveler’s map, the pilgrim’s staff, the pilot’s compass, the soldier’s sword and the Christian’s charter.

“Here too, Heaven is opened and the gates of Hell disclosed.

“Christ is its grand subject, our good its design, and the glory of God its end.

“It should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet.

“Read it slowly, frequently, and prayerfully.

“It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure.

“It is given you in life, will be opened at the judgment, and be remembered forever.

“It involves the highest responsibility, rewards the greatest labor, and will condemn all who trifle with its sacred contents.”

 

The Bible tells you that God is PERFECTLY HOLY, and that you and I are SINFUL. It says that there is an ENORMOUS ‘GAP’ that separates God from sinful man, and that there is only ONE WAY of salvation (to be ‘right’ with God). It is through the obedient life and substitutionary death of Jesus Christ on the Cross and then His resurrection fro the dead.

There is salvation in NO OTHER, for there is no other name under Heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved (Acts 4:12). Jesus said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father but through Me.”

The message of the Bible is that, “For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time” [ 1 Timothy 2:5-6 ].

Might you look to Christ and ‘live’. May you believe upon Christ and be saved! May you have great confidence and great faith in what this book says TO YOU! I will pray for your salvation!

 

The Bible is truly magnificent. Early 20th Century evangelist Billy Sunday pictured the Bible like a majestic palace. He wrote,

“I entered through the portico of Genesis and walked down through the Old Testament’s art gallery, where I saw the portraits of Joseph, Jacob, Daniel, Moses, Isaiah, Solomon and David hanging on the wall; I entered the music room of the Psalms and the Spirit of God struck the keyboard of my nature until it seemed to me that every reed and pipe in God’s great organ of nature responded to the harp of David, and the charm of King Solomon in his moods.

“I walked into the business house of Proverbs.

“I walked into the observatory of the prophets and there saw photographs of various sizes, some pointing to far-off stars or events—all concentrated upon one great Star which was to rise as an atonement for sin.

“Then I went into the audience room of the King of Kings, and got a vision from four points—from Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. I went into the correspondence room, and saw Peter, James, Paul and Jude, penning their epistles to the world. I went into the Acts of the Apostles and saw the Holy Spirit forming the Holy Church, and then I walked into the throne room and saw a door at the foot of a tower and, going up, I saw One standing there, fair as the morning, Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and I found this truest friend that man ever knew; when all were false I found him true.”

The Bible is a unique, AWE-INSPIRING book! However, we don’t want to merely ‘admire’ it, we need to ‘understand’ it! It is still as much ‘alive’ today as it was today it was written!

 

IS THE BIBLE ‘RELIABLE’?
Some people do not believe that the Bible is “inspired,” the “Word” of God, or that it is even reliable.

Well, when I finally got ‘serious’ about determining for myself whether or not I could ‘trust’ what the Bible said (in the late 1980s), my business partner, Bob, gave me a book that was relatively new at the time (originally published in 1972, updated in 1979). It was “Evidence That Demands A Verdict” by Josh McDowell (details in the “Resources” section below).

I was so ready to prove Bob wrong (a ‘solid’ Christian at that time), that I read the entire book that weekend (387 pages of ‘technical’ info—I didn’t sleep!). Well, there were A LOT of things I hadn’t realized about the Bible, and it ‘launched’ me on a 10+ year investigation on determining if the Bible really was the “Word” of the ‘one, true’ God. I couldn’t prove him wrong! So, after ‘putting up’ with all my incessant questions, Bob ‘lead’ me to Lord in his basement in June 1998, and I become “born again”!

Well, there have been other ‘skeptics’ that have ‘investigated’ the Bible just as I had done, but many went the next ‘step’ and wrote a book about it. One particular person, Lee Strobel, an investigative journalist for the Chicago Tribune, spent two years trying to debunk the reliability of the Bible (after his wife became a Christian). Well, he too became a Christian, and has since written more than 20 books on the subject (details in the “Resources” section below).

 

Now, this post is not focused on providing an ‘apologetic’ for the reliability of the Bible, however, the following subjects—from the “Evidence That Demands A Verdict” book—may just ‘whet’ your appetite to do your own investigation:

– The Uniqueness of the Bible
– How Was the Bible Prepared?
– The Reliability of the Bible
– Jesus—A Man of History
– The Trilemma—Lord, Liar, or Lunatic?
– The Messianic Prophecies of the Old Testament Fulfilled in Jesus Christ
– The Resurrection—Hoax or History?
– Prophecy Fulfilled in History

[ FYI: I have written a few posts that are somewhat related to the topic of the reliability of the Bible:
– “What If It’s True?”: https://markbesh.wordpress.com/jan-03-v47/
– “What is “Truth”? (Part 1): https://markbesh.wordpress.com/feb-09-v120/
– “What is “Truth”? (Part 2): https://markbesh.wordpress.com/mar-09-v121/
– “What is “Truth”? (Part 3): https://markbesh.wordpress.com/apr-09-v122/
– “What is “Truth”? (Part 4): https://markbesh.wordpress.com/may-09-v123/
– “The ‘BIG Story’”: https://markbesh.wordpress.com/the-big-story-v143 ].

 

Christian pastor and author John Barnett says that there are many reasons why he thinks the Bible is true, and says there are seven ‘main’ reason why:

– The Bible says so
– Jesus was utterly convinced it was
– The Apostles and the Prophets said it was
– It has stood the test of time
– Its absolute unity throughout
– All its prophesies have been fulfilled 100%
– It has been found that it is 100% accurate scientifically
– It has been 100% accurate historically

[ FYI: Here’s the link to pastor John Barnett’s presentation of all of these assertions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VfttYctX5h4 ].

[Here are a couple more reasons from me: It’s logically consistent; and what it says we will experience, we experience ].

 

Pastor and evangelist Voddie Baucham says, “I choose to believe the Bible because it’s a reliable collection of historical documents, written by eyewitnesses, during the lifetime of other eyewitnesses. They report supernatural events that took place in fulfillment of specific prophecies, and they claim that their writings are divine rather than human in origin.”

He then goes on to say that, in addition to all that, he “tried it, and it changed my life!”

[ FYI: Here’s the entire presentation of Voddie Bauchum that ‘fleshes out’ his statement: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1XJ7DeR5fc ].

 

THE BIBLE IS NOT ‘PRACTICAL’ FOR TODAY
Today, in our ‘technological’ age, most have disparaged the Scriptures as being of no practical value—they’re too old and ‘out of touch’. However, for me, there is nothing MORE PRACTICAL for one’s daily life than ‘KNOWING’ the God who created you (Note: See last month’s “Life’s Deep Thoughts” post for more details and resources about knowing the ‘presence’ of God: https://markbesh.wordpress.com/presence-withdrawn-v257/). ONLY in Scripture has God revealed to us the truths about His person, His character, and THE BEST way for humans to live on this earth—and in Heaven for eternity!

As I have mentioned, the Bible is way more than merely ‘practical’ and objective truth. It is actually ‘life-giving’ and ‘life-sustaining’: “It is no empty word for you, but your very life” [ Deuteronomy 32:47 ].

In the biological realm, “assimilation” is the process by which nourishment is changed into living tissue. In the spiritual realm, assimilation is the process by which the written Word of God is absorbed into our ‘hearts’ and becomes, figuratively speaking, living spiritual ‘tissue’.

[ FYI: For my thoughts on the ‘practicality’ of the Bible, consider viewing the previous “Life’s Deep Thoughts” posts:
– “The ‘Great’ Life?”:
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/feb-05-v72/
– “Overloaded Lives p1”:
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/mar-05-v73/
– “Overloaded Lives p2”:
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/apr-05-v74/
– “Meant to Live How? p1”:
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/may-05-v75/
– “Meant to Live How? p2”:
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/jun-05-v76/ ].

 

WHY WE ‘SHOULD’ READ THE BIBLE
Christians are often criticized for claiming that Jesus is the ‘only way’ to God. After all, there are billions of non-Christians in the world. Are they really so narrow-minded and bigoted that they think these people will be excluded from Heaven just because they happened to be born in the wrong country or have been taught the wrong religion?

Rabbi Schmuley Boteach summed up the feelings of many when he said, “I am absolutely against any religion that says that one faith is superior to another. I don’t see how that is anything different than spiritual racism. It’s a way of saying that we are closer to God than you, and that’s what leads to hatred.”

Those who make such objections have a point. If Jesus is merely one more religious teacher out of countless others, then His claim would be absurd. How can one person have a monopoly on the truth or proclaim his “way” as the only way to God? After all, humans are finite and fallible, while God is infinitely greater than our small minds can comprehend.

BUT, if Jesus is, in fact, God Himself, that puts His claim in an entirely different ‘light’. An infinite being has the ability to say with certainty whether there is one God or many, and whether there are multiple ways to know Him or only one. Jesus doesn’t say that He merely speaks the truth; He claims to be THE embodiment of Truth. He doesn’t say He can give life; He tells us He is the ‘SOURCE’ of life itself—and He doesn’t say He is one pathway to God among many, He asserts He is the ONLY ‘WAY’.

Earlier in John’s gospel, Jesus made this claim to the Jewish people who came to hear Him. They were some of the most religious people on earth. They worshiped the God revealed in the same Bible that Jesus read, and they were passionate about obeying its commands. Yet Jesus told them, “You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about Me, yet you refuse to come to Me to have life” [ John 5:39–40 ]. Later, He told the same audience: “If you do not believe that I am He, you will indeed die in your sins” [ John 8:24 ].

Consider the following (a somewhat imperfect analogy): The movie Braveheart described the exploits of William Wallace as he led the Scottish people in rebellion against Edward Longshanks, the king of England. As Wallace’s victories became more numerous, his reputation grew exponentially. Then one day he came to lead some Scottish warriors into battle who had never met him.

He announced to the soldiers, “Sons of Scotland! I am William Wallace.” But one incredulous warrior exclaimed, “William Wallace is seven feet tall!” “Yes, I’ve heard,” Wallace replied. “Kills men by the hundreds. And if he were here, he’d consume the English with fireballs from his eyes, and bolts of lightning” (laughter from the soldiers). “I am William Wallace! And I see a whole army of my countrymen, here, in defiance of tyranny; Will you fight?”

Suppose they had replied, “We will not follow or fight for you. We will wait for the real William Wallace to appear.” Do you grasp the absurdity of that situation? There was no other William Wallace, and if they didn’t follow him, then their wait for another would be delusional.

In a similar way, the people of Israel had read about God in their Scriptures, but now He had shown up in person. It was ludicrous to think that they could reject Him and still claim to follow the God they had only read about.

On the same evening when Jesus made the claim, “No one comes to the Father except through me,” he added, “If you really know Me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know Him and have seen Him” [ John 14:7 ].

One of Jesus’ disciples, named Philip, said, “Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us.” Jesus answered, “Don’t you know Me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’?” [ John 14:8-9).

Jesus was not displaying arrogance nor was He trying to foster “spiritual racism.” He simply stated the truth. There is only one God, and He became a man in the person of Jesus. As Jesus walked this earth, He showed us what He is really like and gave us the opportunity to truly know Him. We can wait for another to show up who is ‘seven feet tall and has fireballs in his eyes’, but there is NO OTHER. Jesus tells us plainly, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” [ John 14:6 ].

 

‘SWORD’ OF THE SPIRIT
The sixth piece of armor that Paul discusses in Ephesians 6 is the sword of the Spirit, which represents the Word of God. For a Roman soldier, the sword served as an offensive weapon against enemies. When sharpened, the sword could pierce through just about anything, making it a very dangerous tool.

Now, to understand the connection between the sword and the Word of God, it is first important to understand the power of God’s Word. Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”

Through God’s Word, we can distinguish between right and wrong. As a result, we can strive to live in a way that is free from sin. God’s Word is the ‘ultimate’ truth, and we can find confidence in knowing it is our greatest ‘weapon’.

If we are lacking in knowledge of God’s Word, we will struggle to fight against the enemy. However, those who seek God’s Word and abide by it will be blessed. John 5:24 says, “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.”

In addition, the sword of the spirit is unique in that it can be used as both a defensive and offensive tool. While God’s Word can protect us from the lies of the enemy, Satan, it can also counter-attack. For example, Jesus used God’s Word as an offensive weapon when Satan tried to test Him in the wilderness (Jesus responded, “It is written…” – Matthew 4:4).

So, how can we use the sword of the Spirit in our lives? We are not meant to keep the knowledge we gain from God’s Word to ourselves. When we are asked to defend what we believe, we can use God’s Word to point back to Him.

Sometimes, it is not easy to take up our swords and fight against the enemy. However, we are not called to do this by our own strength. When facing trials, we can find peace in knowing that God is on our side. Romans 8:31 says, “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”

I encourage you to take up the sword of the Spirit in your daily life. Remember that God’s Word is the ultimate truth, and that we can stand on His promises. With God on our side, we are unstoppable ‘spiritually’.

 

‘PRACTICAL’ REASONS
So, to be ‘practical’, here are a few reasons for you to consider to read your Bible on a DAILY basis (in no particular order):

– To ‘Know’ God: The Bible is God’s ‘revelation’ of Himself to us. Jesus tells us that it bears witness about Him (John 8:18).

– To Develop Discipline: You may not ‘feel’ like reading your Bible on a daily basis, but if you actually try doing it—continually ‘showing up’—most of the time you will come away with some kind of ‘insight’. “For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it” [ Hebrews 12:11 ]. In addition to that, oftentimes exercising discipline in one ‘area’ of your life, creates discipline in another area of life.

– Renew Your Mind: The Apostle Paul tells us in Romans that we should not “be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect” [ Romans 12:2 ]. This will help us with biblical discernment (knowing if a ‘teacher’ is preaching correct doctrine).

– To Worship Biblically: True worship is repeating back to God the truth about Himself that He has revealed to you in Scripture. If one wants to worship God for who He is, one has to know who He is, and one can only know this if they have read the Bible.

– So the Holy Spirit Can Help: One ‘role’ of the Holy Spirit is brought to remembrance truth in one’s moment of temptation, when one needs encouragement or comfort.

– God Tells The Believer To Read The Bible: “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success” [ Joshua 1:8 ].

– To Be Transformed Into The ‘Image’ Of Jesus: The believer is constantly being ‘transformed’ into the character and likeness of Jesus. As the believer beholds Jesus as He is revealed to them in the Bible, they will become more and more like Him. “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth” [ John 17:17 ].

– To Know How To Live: God has called the believer to live as a member of the Church ’body’, “so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes” [ Ephesians 4:14 ]. This is also done to be “profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work” [ 2 Timothy 3:16-17 ].

– To Guard Against Sin: The Bible says that it is “living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” [ Hebrews 4:12 ]. It searches our ‘hearts’ and exposes our sin. King David says that we should “store up your word in [our] heart, that I might not sin against You” [ Psalm 119:11 ].

– To Grow In Wisdom: Again, King David says that, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding” [ Psalm 111:10 ].

– To Protect Against Deceit: The Apostle Paul tells us to see to it that, “no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ” [ Colossians 2:8 ]. We must be ‘rooted’ in God’s Word so that we are not deceived by lies.

– To Grow Your Faith: “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ” [ Romans 10:17 ].

– Give One Hope: There are many stories in the Bible that are intended to give the believer confidence and hope in times of trouble, by explaining what happened to them in their troubles. Look back on God’s faithfulness builds one’s faith because it reminds one that God IS faithful. “For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope” [ Romans 15:4 ].

– To Experience Joy: Sometimes when one has ‘communion’ with God, they will be filled with an unexplainable joy. King David said that, “For I find my delight in your commandments, which I love” [ Psalm 119:47 ]. Sometimes one will experience a ‘thrill’ when they are reading the Bible.

– Gain Peace: In the Old Testament, the prophet Isaiah tells us that, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you” [ Isaiah 26:3 ]. King David said that, “Great peace have those who love your law; nothing can make them stumble” [ Psalm 119:165 ]. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul told us that, “For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace” [ Romans 8:6 ].

– To Light One’s ‘Path’: King David tells us that God will help one determine the proper direction in their life: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” [ Psalm 119: 105 ].

– To Know God’s Promises: The Bible is full of promises that bring the believer freedom from fear, worry, and anxiety, because when one “knows the truth, and the truth will set [them] free” [ John 8:32 ]. Joshua tells us that, “Not one word of all the good promises that the Lord had made to the house of Israel had failed; all came to pass” [ Joshua 21:45 ]. However, to do this, one first needs to know them.

– To Be Nourished Spiritually: Jesus tells us that, “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life” [ John 6:63 ]. He also tells us that, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God” [ Matthew 4:4 ]. Jesus tells us that the Bible will give the believer an unending ‘meal’ to be nourished by.

– To ‘Hear’ From God: Jesus tells us that He is the “Good Shepherd” and that, “the sheep follow Him, for they know His voice” [ John 10:4c ]. In order to ‘hear’ God’s ‘voice’, the believer needs to know His voice, and in order to know His voice, one needs to to familiarize themselves with what is ‘sounds’ like.

– How To Get To Heaven: Jesus said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” [ John 14:6 ].

The great British preacher Charles Spurgeon summarized it well when he said, “A Bible that’s falling apart usually belongs to a person that isn’t.”

 

WHY WE ‘DON’T’ READ THE BIBLE
Well, most of the people I have asked this of tend to give me ‘justifications’. The most used reason (excuse?) is that, “I simply don’t have the time.”

Well, yes, today’s life, especially in America, is VERY BUSY. There is work, family, friends, children’s activities, household ‘duties’, entertainment, personal hobbies, civic duties, church, and then trying to get a ‘fair’ amount of sleep.

The thing is, we are OVERLY ‘DISTRACTED’ by so much. There are constant e-mails and texts ‘craving’ our attention. Then there’s what’s happening on one’s Social Media ‘channels’. Add to that binge-watching Netflix. No wonder why people don’t have any ‘extra’ time to read the Bible.

BUT, people do what they want to do. The things you really want to do, you make time for. The fact of the matter is the everyone has 24 hours a day and seven days a week. The people who read the Bible have 24 hours a day and seven days a week, and the people who don’t read the Bible have 24 hours a day seven days a week. We all have the exact same amount of time, so it’s not a matter of time, it’s a matter of ‘PRIORITIZING’!

 

Now, others answer my question with, “When I read the Bible, I don’t get anything out of it.”

Many people say that the Bible is a bit boring and it seems irrelevant to them for their lives today. The culture of the Bible was WAY different than today’s culture—there were no airplanes, cars, televisions, microwaves, computers, Internet, mobile phones, Social Media, and workplaces to go to, so they think it can’t possibly ‘relate’ to them in this time.

In 1986 Neil Postman wrote an essay called “Amusing Ourselves to Death.” He argued that personal freedoms will not disappear because of a totalitarian government oppressing us. Our personal freedoms will disappear when, “People will come to love their oppression, to adore the technologies that undo their capacities to think.” Wow, he wrote that 25 years before the iPhone was even invented! (I DO think our technologies are undoing our capacities to think!)

 

We are also OVERLY ‘AMUSED’! The fact that we think we don’t have time is tied to the distractions that we have filled our lives with.

The thing is, the Bible will ‘construct’ your thinking if you allow it to. It will teach you the truth about who God is, the truth about who you are, and the truth about how we humans relate to this Almighty God.

The Bible will inform your belief system, and so much of one’s bad behavior is tied to their incorrect belief system. The only way one will correct it is to get into the Bible and have their belief system ‘molded’ by God.

Scripture will tell you when you’re wrong. You’ll be reading and you’ll think to yourself, “Wait a minute. I’m doing that. Yikes! That’s wrong, and I’m ‘out of bounds’! [ You might be either hurting yourself or hurting someone else ]. “I didn’t even know until the Bible told me.”

The Bible not only ‘rebukes’, it also ‘corrects’. Correcting takes rebuking a step farther. Rebuking is just saying you’re wrong, and correcting say how to change what you are doing. Here’s what’s actually right, and here is how to ‘step into’ what’s true much right, instead of what’s false and a lie. This all happens so that the man or the woman of God may be “thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:17).

 

The Proverbs also has a bit to say about all this. It addresses it with 30 ‘sayings’ that precisely answer this conundrum (Proverbs 22:17-24:22).

It does this primarily in verse 17, which says, “Incline your ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply your heart to my knowledge.” Words go inside your ear and ‘form’ in your mind to produce knowledge. Then the heart experiences a ‘pleasantness’. So, if the ‘heart’ is not ‘feeling’ anything, one must ‘say’ to it, “Heart, wake up and ‘taste’ this!”

Hopefully, this illustrates what I am trying to say. Suppose you have a ‘hankering’ for the taste of a steak. You can hear one sizzling on the grill outside, so you go out to view it. Your eyes see the steak on the grill, and when you get close enough, you can smell it. But, there is no ‘taste’ of it in your mouth. For this to happen, you have to take out a knife, cut a piece off, put it in your mouth, and start to chew it before you can taste it. Then you have to swallow it for it to be ‘valuable’ and nutritious for your body.

So, it is the same thing with the Bible—you have to read/hear small ‘portions’ of the Word (sometimes reading it out loud to yourself can help), then ‘savor’ it (meditate) until you start to understand it. Then, sometimes it takes ‘mulling’ it (deeper study) for a while for it to be ‘ingested’ and finally ‘awaken’ your heart with true knowledge.

It will help if you get “quiet before the Lord” (Psalm 5:3; Psalm 40:1; Psalm 130:5) in a ‘place’, without any distractions (especially any ‘digital’ devices!). It just takes practice, so don’t give up! The knowledge of God and His ways is of inestimable value! Pray for the Holy Spirit to teach you. The Apostle Paul said that as one studies the Bible, only the Holy Spirit can open their ‘eyes’ to its deepest secrets (1 Corinthians 2:10). So, one must be TOTALLY SUBMITTED to the will of God to understand the Scriptures!

 

HOW TO READ THE BIBLE
The Bible is not like a ‘normal’ book. It looks like a book, but it’s not. It is considered an “anthology” which means it is “a collection of books.” So, the Bible is a ‘compendium’—a ‘library’ of sorts. It is many ‘kinds’ of books, and each book is different from all the others. Each book has a specific reason for being written that is different from all the others, and that’s why we need to approach each book of the Bible in a different way.

Some people read their Bible in the ‘medical’ way. “Six verses a day keeps the Devil away.” They read it like a dose of ‘meds’ every morning. I’m suggesting that this is NO WAY to be reading your Bible.

Others use the “lucky dip” method. It’s the person that allows the Bible to open by itself, and the read the first verse that catches their attention.

I heard an illustration about this method that goes like this: A man’s devotional reading consisted of cracking his Bible at random and reading the first verse his finger touched. One morning this was his verse for the day: “And Judas went out and hanged himself.” That can’t be right, he thought. So he tried again and let the Bible fall open by itself again. The verse he put his finger on was, “Go and do likewise.” Chagrined, he thought, the third time is always the charm! He read, “What you are going to do, do quickly!”

Now, you might be laughing at bit at that, and very few of us are as ‘off-base’ as that guy, ‘skipping’ all around the Bible. You wouldn’t read any other book that way, right?. You wouldn’t get the ‘proper’ message the author was trying to convey—and that goes for the Bible, too.

 

Now, there’s a big difference between ‘reading’ the Bible and ‘feeding’ on the Bible. A non-believer can read the Bible and it will provide no ‘sustenance’ whatsoever. A ‘sinful’ Christian can also read the Bible and it won’t provide anything for them either. That’s why the Apostle Peter says one must “put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation” [ 1 Peter 2:1-2 ].

So, the first thing that opens up the truth of Scripture is a pure ‘heart’ (“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” – Matthew 5:8). Faithful Bible study begins with a ‘confession’ and a desire to have God cleanse your heart so that you can really understand what He is saying.

Secondly, one has to be able to interpret the meaning of Scripture. It isn’t just the words on the ‘surface’, it’s the truth ‘buried’ in those words. One has to get to the real, ‘root’ meaning. There’s very little value in simply reading the Bible if you don’t know what it means.

However, once you have set your heart right, and once you understand what it means, then the next key is to meditate on it. Read a bit of Scripture then ‘sit back’ and think about it. Find other passages that relate to what you are reading that ‘embellish’ that truth. THEN you will begin to ‘feed’ on the Word and read ‘richly’!

 

So, the ‘IDEA’ of personal Bible study is simple, but it requires DISCIPLINE and ‘long-term’ GOALS. Here are a few suggested steps that will give you a ‘pattern’ to follow:

– READING: There are quite a number of good reading “plans” that will help you read the Bible ’systematically’. If you want to just start reading, most Bible teachers/theologians suggest you start with the Book of John. It focuses on describing who Jesus is.

– INTERPRETING: As you read the Bible, always keep in mind one simple question: “What does this mean?” Then, let the Holy Spirit be your teacher (1 John 2:27), for this is the Book the He authored, and really wants you to know exactly what He meant. Pray for wisdom to understand the meaning, and read diligently.

– EVALUATING: At times, you will find it helpful to consult others to ensure that you have interpreted the Bible correctly. So, read Bible commentaries from ‘reliable’ teachers and theologians (Matthew Henry, John MacArthur, Warren Wiersbe, and John Walvoord are some of the best) to enrich your thinking. In your evaluations, be a ‘truth’ seeker.

– APPLYING: Studying the Bible without allowing it to ‘penetrate’ the depths of your soul would be like preparing a banquet without sitting down to eat and enjoy it. Ask this question of yourself: “How do these divine truths apply to my attitude and actions?” Jesus made this promise to those who would carry their personal Bible study through to this point: “If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them” [ John 13:17 ].

– CORRELATING: Finally, make ‘connections’ between the doctrine you have learned in a particular passage with divine truths and principles taught elsewhere in the Bible to form the “Big Picture.” Always keep in mind that the Bible is a single ‘book’ in 66 ‘parts’, and its truths are taught over and over again in a variety of stories and principles. By correlating and cross-referencing, you will begin to build a sound doctrinal ‘foundation’.

 

So, it’s not enough just to ‘STUDY’ the Bible, one must also ‘MEDITATE’ upon it and ‘IMMERSE’ oneself in it. Moses’ successor Joshua said it well: “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success” [ Joshua 1:8 ].

 

‘BENEFITS’ OF READING THE BIBLE
Well, first off, it’s the most popular book worldwide. It’s an all-time bestseller. About 100 MILLION copies are distributed EVERY YEAR, in hundreds of different languages.

It is not only popular, but it is also a really great read. I mean it’s great literature. It has an incredible story, it is reliable history, it has beautiful poetry, and prolific storytelling of adventure, action, and drama. [ Yes, it’s better than my all-time favorite, “The Pilgrim’s Progress” ;^D ].

So, those are all great reasons to read the Bible, but there’s an even better one: When one reads it, God ‘blesses’ that person (“Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.” – Psalm 1:1-2).

In addition to that, God promises to ‘speak’ to a believer, and He will lead the believer into all wisdom: “and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” [ 1 Timothy 3:15 ]. God will be ‘objectively’ KNOWABLE to the believer by reading the Bible. Wow!

God will also guide the believer in all the areas of—relationships, academics, politics, marriage, sex, finances, and a whole lot more, since “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness” [ 1 Timothy 3:16 ], and it will help the believer to be ‘profitable’: “that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work” [ 1 Timothy 3:17 ].

On the other hand, God will lovingly ‘correct’ His ‘children’: “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” [ Hebrews 4:12 ]. The Bible helps one know ‘what’s’ right, and how to ‘do’ right (Psalm 119:11).

In general, the Bible helps ‘guide’ the believer about how to live their lives: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” [ Psalm 119:105 ]. How to live well.

 

Now, here’s where some people miss ‘it’. The Bible is not just a list of do’s and don’ts, abstract ethical principles of right and wrong. Nor is it a bunch of past stories that try to help one answer some of the vital questions for success in life. Its primary goal is to grow the believer into becoming more like Jesus (2 Timothy 3:17). To tell the believer what God wants them to do for Him. Not to just read the Bible, but to go out and ‘practice’ it.

Primarily, reading the Bible will help one get to KNOW GOD ‘PERSONALLY’.

 

Now, another HUGE benefit of reading the Bible is that it can help us ‘fight off’ the ’schemes’ of the Devil. It’s what the Apostle Paul presented to the Ephesian church that has been referred to as “The Armor of God.”

The ‘armor’ of God represents the defense ‘mechanism’ in our spiritual lives. The Bible tells us that we are fighting a ‘war’ against Satan, who seeks to ‘destroy’ us. Therefore, we must take action and put on God’s ‘armor’.

As Christians, it is important for us to understand the severity of this battle. As it is often something we cannot physically see, it is easy to lose sight of the impact it can have. However, it can be very dangerous when we forget to equip ourselves with the armor of God and allow the enemy to take control in our lives.

[ FYI: If you are interested in the specific details of the “Armor of God,” I did a detailed discussion about it in this previous “Life’s Depp Thoughts” post: https://markbesh.wordpress.com/ready-for-battle-v235/ ].

The Holy Spirit uses the ‘power’ of the Word to save souls and then to give them spiritual strength to be mature ‘soldiers’ for God in fighting this corrupt and evil world we live in. So, the more we know and understand the Word of God, the more useful we will be in doing the will of God, and the more effective we will be in standing against the enemy of our souls, the Devil.

 

‘PRACTICAL’ BENEFITS
There are also some very ‘practical’ benefits of reading the Bible. It is the source of spiritual nourishment, spiritual growth, divine ‘blessing’, divine ‘victory’, divine truth, divine revelation (and the only ‘revelation’ we need), divine inspiration, divine authority, transformation, knowledge, our source of ‘joy’, the guide for obedience, produces righteousness, is more valuable than ‘gold’, and give us spiritual ‘protection’ (the “Armor of God”).

Now, to receive these benefits, one must, “Be filled with the knowledge of [God’s] will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding” [ Colossians 1:9 ]. The Greek word translated “filled” speaks of influence or control. The phrase “spiritual wisdom and understanding” indicates more than merely knowing God’s Word. It speaks of applying it to your life under the Spirit’s power and direction.

As one prayerfully saturates their mind with God’s Word, it begins more and more to control their thinking and behavior. In the believer, the Holy Spirit then uses the Word to renew their mind and to protect them from conformity to worldly attitudes and actions (Romans 12:2).

 

SPIRITUAL ‘NOURISHMENT’
God’s Word is both productive and nourishing. The Bible contains many precious promises, two of which, relate specifically to itself. First, the prophet Isaiah said that the Word is productive: “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from 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 55:10-11 ].

The Word is also nourishing. Moses wrote, “…man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord” [ Deuteronomy 8:3d ]. God’s Word feeds believers, causing spiritual growth. Obey it, so it can continue its transforming work in you, you more like Christ each day. Scripture is our source of spiritual growth.

 

SPIRITUAL ‘GROWTH’
The believer has a ‘dependence’ on God’s Word. If a newborn baby is deprived of nourishment, it will soon die. Similarly, if a believer doesn’t ‘feed’ on the Bible, they will languish spiritually. So, a believer should long for God’s Word as intently as a newborn baby longs for its mother’s milk.

Scripture draws on the parent/child metaphor in other ways as well, referring to Christians as being born again (John 3:7; 1 Peter 1:3), children of God (Romans 8:16; 1 John 3:1), and adopted sons (Romans 8:15; Ephesians 1:5). Just as it is natural for biological children to grow and mature, Christians also have the capacity for spiritual growth. In fact, we’re commanded to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18).

The Word of God is the mainstay of the believer’s spiritual diet. It’s their primary source of nourishment. The Apostle Paul said, “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught” [ Colossians 2:6-7 ]. “Your faith” in that context refers to the ‘content’ of Christianity—as one’s doctrines increase, the believer will become more and more ‘grounded’ in truth and more steadfast in Jesus.

If the believer has lost their appetite for God’s Word, it is probably because of sin (1 Peter 2:1). If so, ask God to cleanse your heart and to give you a renewed longing for His truth. Then commit yourself to DAILY time in the Word! (Acts 20:32; 1 Thessalonians 2:13).

 

DIVINE ‘BLESSING’
God said to Joshua (in verse 1:8), “This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success [blessings].”

When Scripture speaks of a person’s being “blessed,” it usually refers to the reception of some temporal or spiritual benefit. It also includes the joy and sense of well-being that comes with knowing that God is at work on your behalf.

The psalmist wrote, “How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, Nor stand in the path of sinners, Nor sit in the seat of scoffers! But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night. He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, Which yields its fruit in its season And its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers” [ Psalm 1:1-3 ]. Those who know and obey God’s Word will be blessed in ‘some’ way (not necessarily financial).

James said that, “the one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty [God’s Word], and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does” [ James 1:25 ]. Again, the very act of obedience brings ‘blessing’.

The Apostle John opens the book of Revelation with this promise: “Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of the prophecy, and heed the things which are written in it” [ Revelation 1:3 ]. Then, Jesus ‘closed’ Revelation with a similar promise: “Blessed is he who heeds the words of the prophecy of this book” [ Revelation 22:7 ]. Obedience and blessing always go hand in hand.

BUT, one can forfeit God’s blessings by ‘neglecting’ His Word or by committing other sinful acts. SO, one must guard their heart carefully, and continue in the Word. As one does, their joy will be boundless!

 

DIVINE ‘VICTORY’
Jesus Himself repelled Satan’s attacks by quoting specific portions of Scripture that applied to specific temptations (Matthew 4:1-11). He knew the Word, believed it, and refused to compromise its principles. In doing so, He set a ‘pattern’ for all believers to follow.

Using metaphorical language, the Apostle John described three levels of spiritual maturity: children, young men, and fathers. He said, “I am writing to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven for his name’s sake. I am writing to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I write to you, children, because you know the Father. I write to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one.” [ 1 John 2:12-14 ].

Spiritual “children” aren’t yet mature in their faith, but they know who their Heavenly Father ‘is’. They know they ‘belong’ to God. Spiritual “young men” are healthy, vibrant, and aggressive because the Word abides ‘in’ them—it has found a ‘home’ in their hearts. They’re victorious over the evil one because their doctrine is sound and they’ve cultivated spiritual wisdom and discernment (Philippians 1:9). They recognize Satan’s lies and reject them. Spiritual “fathers” have a deep, mature ‘relationship’ with God that comes from prolonged time in prayer and the Word.

Which of those terms best describes you? A spiritual child, young man, or a father? If you are not a very mature “father” at this point, what specific things can you do today to move toward a more mature ‘level’, and a more victorious Christian life?

 

DIVINE ‘TRUTH’
Scripture says it is the source of divine truth, so it amazes me how people can spend so much time searching for truth ‘elsewhere’ but ignore the Bible. In his poem “Miriam,” John Greenleaf Whittier reflected on the same conundrum:

“We search the world for truth. We cull
The good, the pure, the beautiful,
From graven stone and written scroll,
From all old flower-fields of tHe soul;
And, weary seekers of the best,
We comeback laden from the quest,
To find that all the sages said
Is in the Book our mothers read.”

 

God never intended for truth to be mysterious or unattainable. His Word is a ‘repository’ of truth, containing every principle we need for life and thought. But knowing truth begins with knowing God, its ‘Author’. “We know that the Son of God has come, and has given us understanding, in order that we might know Him who is true, and we are in Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life” [ 1 John 5:20 ].

The psalmist proclaimed that, “The works of His hands are truth and justice; ail His precepts are sure. They are upheld forever and ever; they are performed in truth and uprightness” [ Psalm 111:7-8 ].

 

DIVINE ‘REVELATION’
Scripture says that it is the ‘storehouse’ of divine revelation fro God. Scripture is God’s self-disclosure through His Spirit to the human authors. Man could never know God’s identity, attributes, perspectives, or commands if He hadn’t revealed them to him. Nor could man know his own origin, purpose, or destiny.

The Apostle Paul said, “‘Things which eye has not seen and ear has not heard, and which have not entered the heart of man, all that God has prepared for those who love Him.’ For to us God revealed them through the Spirit” [ 1 Corinthians 2:9-10 ]. In he added when speaking to the young pastor Timothy, “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction. for training in righteousness” [ 2 Timothy 3:16 ]. God ‘inspired’ EVERY WORD of Scripture, and ‘speaks’ to the believer on every page!

The book of Hebrews speaks of two general means by which God revealed Himself: in Old Testament revelation (“long ago” – verse 1), and in New Testament revelation (“in His Son” – verse 2).

First, He spoke to the Jewish fathers through the Old Testament prophets “in many portions.” That refers to all the books of the Old Testament. “In many ways” refers to the specific means by which He communicated: visions, prophecies, parables, types, symbols, ceremonies, theophanies, and His ‘audible’ voice.

Then, from the close of the Old Testament to the arrival of John the Baptist, there were approximately 400 years during which God was ‘silent’. However, that silence was shattered when John announced the coming of Jesus. From that time on, God ‘spoke’ through His Son, Jesus. The Gospels record His life and teachings, then the book of Acts shows the propagation of His teachings through the apostles and early church, and the epistles apply His teachings to everyday life—divine revelation.

 

ONLY ‘REVELATION’ NEEDED
For me, one of the most ‘disturbing’ trends in Christendom is the proliferation of extra-Biblical ‘revelations’ that certain people are claiming to receive directly form God.

Such claims are alarming because the ‘dilute’ the sufficiency of the Bible, and cause people to ‘lean’ on man’s word rather than God’s Word. They imply that Scripture is insufficient for Christian living, and that we need additional ‘revelation’ to fill the gap. However, as was quoted previously, the Apostle Paul says that the Bible is “breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work” [ 2 Timothy 3:16-17 ]. So then, WHAT MORE is necessary?

When the Apostle John died, apostolic revelation CEASED. That written legacy remains as the ‘standard’ by which we should test the teachings of anyone that claims to have a ‘word’ from God (1 Thessalonians 5:21; 1 John 4:1). If a teaching does not ‘conform’ to Scripture, then it MUST be rejected!

God went to great ‘lengths’ to record and preserve His revelation to mankind, and He jealously ‘guards’ it from corruption of any kind. “You shall not add to the word that I command you, nor take from it, that you may keep the commandments of the Lord your God that I command you.” [ Deuteronomy 4:2, and reiterated in Revelation 22:18-19 ].

So, don’t be ‘swayed’ by any supposed new ‘revelations’. Devote yourself to what has already been revealed! (2 Timothy 4:1-4).

 

DIVINELY ‘INSPIRED’
Theologians speak of ‘inspiration’ as the mysterious process by which God worked through the authors of Scripture to produce inerrant and divinely authoritative writings. Inspiration is a mystery because Scripture doesn’t explain specifically how it occurred. The only glimpse we have for this is, “knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. For 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 1:20-21 ].

“Interpretation” speaks of origin. Scripture didn’t originate on the human ‘level’, but with the Holy Spirit, Who ‘moved upon’ the authors to write it. “Moved” is the translation of the Greek word that is a nautical term that describes the effect of the wind upon a ship as it blows against its sails, thereby moving the ship through the water. Similarly, the Holy Spirit ‘moved’ the Biblical writers to produce the Word of God with their own language and their own ‘style’.

The human authors knew they were writing God’s Word, and they did so with confidence and authority (they often cited or allude to one another as authoritative ‘agents’ of divine revelation – 2 Peter 3:15-16).

So, the Holy Spirit’s ‘inspiration’ of these human writers guarantees that what was written in the autographs, IS what God said. You can have full assurance that it is true, and will not lead you astray!

[ FYI: To give you a bit of ‘proof’ that the Bible is ‘inspired’, this article shows some of the very detailed Old Testament prophecies that were fulfilled in the New Testament, such that the ‘Person’ that wrote the prophecy would have ‘known’ what was going to happen: https://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-study/topical-studies/the-old-testament-is-filled-with-fulfilled-prophecy-11652232.html Also, here’s a chart that shows 351 prophesies that Jesus fulfilled: https://www.newtestamentchristians.com/bible-study-resources/351-old-testament-prophecies-fulfilled-in-jesus-christ/ ].

 

DIVINE ‘AUTHORITY’
Even those who hold to a high view of Scripture sometimes fail to obey it. We need to be reminded that the authority of God’s Word isn’t simply a ‘doctrine’ to be affirmed, but a ‘priority’ to be pursued.

King David penned the most monumental statement ever made on the ‘sufficiency’ of Scripture: “The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple; the precepts 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 forever; the rules of the Lord are true, and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb. Moreover, by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward.

“Who can discern his errors? Declare me innocent from hidden faults. Keep back your servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me! Then I shall be blameless, and innocent of great transgression.

“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer” [ Psalm 19:14 ].

 

TRANSFORMATION
God can transform you into the person He wants you to be through His Word.

Many today doubt the power of Scripture in dealing with the deeper aspects of the human heart and mind. The Bible may be helpful for certain superficial or “spiritual” problems, they say, but it’s “too simplistic and inadequate” for the more complex psychological issues of modern man. The truth is, however, the best psychology can do is to modify ‘external’ behavior, It cannot redeem and transform the ‘insides’ (the soul). Only God can do that through the power of His Word.

That’s the truth behind the Psalm mentioned above (verse 19:7). It calls Scripture “the law of the Lord,” thus emphasizing its didactic nature. It is the ‘sum’ of God’s instruction to man, whether for creed (what we believe), character (what we are), or conduct (what we do).

Bible commentator Albert Barnes wrote that Scripture, “lacks nothing [for] its completeness; nothing in order that it might be what it should be. It is complete as a revelation of Divine truth; it is complete as a rule of conduct… It is absolutely true; it is adapted with consummate wisdom to the [needs] of man; it is an unerring guide of conduct. There is nothing there which would lead men into error or sin; there is nothing essential for man to know which may not be found there.”

Man’s reasoning is imperfect, but God’s Word is perfect. The Bible contains everything necessary for the believer’s spiritual life. It is so comprehensive that it can restore ANYONE’S soul. That is, it will convert, revive, refresh, and transform every aspect of one’s being to make them precisely the person God wants them to be.

So, don’t look to impotent human alternatives when God’s Word stands ready to minister to your every need. Spiritual warfare is fought with spiritual weapons, not fleshly techniques, theories, or therapies (2 Corinthians 10:4).

 

KNOWLEDGE
God’s Word imparts wisdom and knowledge beyond the realm of mere human understanding.

King David’s characterization of God’s Word as “the testimony of the Lord” (Psalm 19:7) speaks of its role as God’s witness to who He is and what He requires of us. In addition, it’s a “sure” witness. That means it’s unwavering, immovable, unmistakable, reliable, and trustworthy!

 

The Apostle Peter made the same point when, after recounting his incredible experience with Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration (2 Peter 1:16-18), he said, “but we have a testimony more sure than that—the prophetic word” (verse 19). The testimony of God’s written Word is a surer and more convincing confirmation of God’s truth than even apostolic experiences with Jesus Himself!

Perhaps that’s why Jesus prevented the two disciples on the Emmaus Road from recognizing Him as He gave them a Biblical basis for the things they had seen and heard (Luke 24:27). Their faith and preaching were to be based on Scripture, not merely on their own personal experiences—no matter how profound or moving those experiences may have been.

[ FYI: I discussed the Emmaus Road story in detail in last month’s “Life’s Deep Thoughts: https://markbesh.wordpress.com/presence-withdrawn-v257/ ].

 

The benefit of God’s sure Word is that it makes the simple wise (Psalm 19:77). It takes undiscerning, ignorant, and gullible people and teaches them profound truth from God that they can apply to their lives. As they do this, they become skilled in the art of godly living.

That was the psalmist’s joy when he wrote, “Thy commandments make me wiser than my enemies, for they are ever mine. I have more insight than all my teachers, for Thy testimonies are my meditation. I understand more than the aged, because I have observed Thy precepts” [ Psalm 119:98-100 ].

Applying this principle to New Testament believers, the Apostle Paul prayed that we would be “filled with the knowledge of [God’s] will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding” [ Colossians 1:9 ]. As that occurs, they are enabled to “walk in a manner worthy of the Lord [and] to please Him in all respects” [ Colossians 1:10 ]. That’s the outworking of godly wisdom and the ‘key’ to holy living.

 

SOURCE OF ‘REAL’ JOY
So, what brings you joy? Your answer will reveal much about your priorities, and about the ‘direction’ your life is heading spiritually. Knowing your life is on the ‘right’ track is a source of great joy.

The psalmist wrote, “How blessed [happy, joyful] is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, nor stand in the path of sinners, nor sit in the seat of scoffers! But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night. And he will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither; and in whatever he does, he prospers” [ Psalm 1:1-3 ].

The psalmist knew that true joy and happiness come from God and abiding in His Word. That was King David’s confidence when he wrote, “The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart” [ Psalm 19:8 ].

“Precepts” in that verse speaks of divine principles and guidelines for character and conduct. God created you and knows how you must live to give glory to Him. He revealed in His Word EVERY precept you MUST KNOW to do so!

Every divine precept is “right.” It shows you the path that is right and true. What a wonderful confidence that is! While many around you may be discouraged or despondent because of their lack of direction and purpose, God’s Word is a lamp to your feet and a light to your path (Psalm 119:105). It will guide you through the difficult mazes of life and gives your life eternal significance. Don’t live simply for your own pleasures. Your life has a high and holy purpose, and each day can be filled with joy as you see that purpose unfold.

 

A BELIEVER’S ‘OBEDIENCE’
It isn’t popular these days to speak of God’s Word as a book of commandments. But the fact is, both the Old and New Testaments contain many commandments that God EXPECTS all of His ‘children’ to obey.

Jesus Himself said, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” [ John 14:15 ], and “He who has My commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves Me; and he who loves Me shall be loved by My Father” ([ John 14:21 ]. If you truly love Jesus, your life will be characterized by a ‘pattern’ of obedience to His Word.

The psalmist said that every commandment of God is “pure” (Psalm 19:8). Its effect is “enlightening the eyes.” God’s Word brings spiritual truth into clear focus.

However, as clear as the Bible is to believers, unredeemed people can’t understand it. To them, it’s “foolishness” because their minds are unenlightened (1 Corinthians 2:14). In their spiritual ‘blindness’ they choose humanistic philosophical enlightened by the truths of God’s Word. But, as a believer, you are continually being enlightened by the truths of God’s Word as the Holy Spirit enables them to understand the truths and apply them to their life.

[ FYI: For more details on spiritual ‘blindness’, view this previous “Life’s Deep Thoughts” post: https://markbesh.wordpress.com/are-you-blind-v252/ ].

The ability to understand the Word is a PRICELESS ‘gift’! So, take advantage of it DAILY by expanding your Bible knowledge and increasing your obedience.

 

PRODUCES ‘RIGHTEOUSNESS’
God’s Word IS TRUTH and produces righteousness in the believer’s life. Jesus illustrated the hopelessness of searching for truth when He said to a group of unbelievers, “Why do you not understand what I am saying? It is because you cannot hear My word. You are of your father the Devil… [who] does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. Whenever he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature; for he is a liar, and the father of lies. But because I speak the truth, you do not believe Me…. He who is of God hears the words of God; for this reason you do not hear them, because you are not of God” [ John 8:43-47 ].

Unbelievers don’t ‘see’ the truth of God’s Word for what it is. BUT, believers ‘hear’ the truth and receive it. Like King David said, they acknowledge that, “the judgments of the Lord are true; they are righteous altogether” [ Psalm 19:9 ].

“Righteous altogether” implies that Scripture produces comprehensive righteousness in all who receive it. Together these words emphasize that true righteousness originates from God’s Word and ‘flows through’ His people.

 

MORE VALUABLE THAN ‘GOLD’
Again, King David says that the Scriptures are, “More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb” [ Psalm 19:10 ].

This captures the heart of people that extol the preciousness of God’s Word. To David, Scripture was more valuable than the best gold and the purest honey. Meditating on it meant more to him than the richest and sweetest things in life. He knew its ability to satisfy every spiritual appetite.

Now, as precious as God’s Word is, many believers take it for granted and become ‘complacent’ in their reading and studies, going for long periods without gaining fresh insights from its pages.

If you are a believer, let me encourage you not to become ‘negligent’ yourself, and ask God to ‘reinvigorate’ your desire to feed on His Word DAILY! (1 Peter 2:1-2).

 

SPIRITUAL ‘PROTECTION’
Heeding God’s warnings brings spiritual protection and great joy. The warnings of Scripture aren’t intended to frustrate or stifle you, on the contrary, when you heed them, they ‘shelter’ you from spiritual harm and bring the joy of knowing you’re in God’s will. That’s the “great reward” King David speaks of in Psalm 19:11: “Moreover, by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward.”

The believer has the capacity to understand and ‘respond’ to the Scriptures. That’s because the Holy Spirit indwells them and imparts spiritual discernment, wisdom, and understanding (1 John 2:27). They have “the mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:16).

BUT, having the ability to understand spiritual truth doesn’t guarantee the believer will exercise their ability. God said to the Israelites—through the prophet Hosea—“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge” [ Hosea 4:6 ]. His truth was available to them, but they ignored it and lived in disobedience.

Many people lament that they could have avoided much grief if only they had known the Bible more thoroughly—if only they had taken the time to learn what God expected of them in a particular situation. Well, perhaps you have felt that way. So, the best way to avoid making that mistake in the future is to faithfully, prayerfully, patiently, and thoroughly saturate your mind with Biblical truth NOW, and then DISCIPLINE yourself to live according to its principles. It’s definitely a challenge because of our busy lifestyles here in America (and probably MANY other places in the world), but it’s the only way to profit from Biblical teaching and to avoid unnecessary heartaches.

As the Holy Spirit uses Scripture to expose sin in the believer’s life, forsake that sin and follow what Scripture says to do instead—you will be strengthened in your spiritual walk as a result. To aid in that process, be “constantly nourished on the words of the faith and… sound doctrine” (1 Timothy 4:6). I firmly believe that any weaknesses a believer has can become areas of great strength as they allow God’s Word to do its sanctifying work within them.

John Bunyan, author of “The Pilgrim’s Progress” said it well: “Either this Book will keep you from sin, or sin will keep you from this Book.” So, deal with sin immediately, so it doesn’t spoil your ‘appetite’ for God’s Word.

So, let me encourage all believers that even if you know the Bible well, be regularly refreshed by its power and reminded of its truths. That is the ‘key’ to enjoying spiritual health and victory!

Let me also encourage unbelievers to ask God to give you understanding of His Word such that you can become a “born again” believer! [ Specific ‘helps’ for this are in the “Resources” section below ].

 

WHAT TRANSLATION’ SHOULD I READ?
The common question of which Bible translation to use is very important—since it concerns the most important words ever spoken, the words of God the Creator. It’s crucial to understand at the outset that behind each version is a fundamental philosophy of Bible translation. You want to make sure the version you use reproduces in your own language what God actually said.

 

TRANSLATION PHILOSOPHY
You can separate modern Bible translations into two basic groups—formal equivalency and dynamic equivalency. Formal equivalency attempts a word for word rendition, providing as literal a translation as possible. Dynamic equivalency is more like a paraphrase, trying to convey ideas thought by thought.

Since no one language corresponds perfectly to any other language, every translation involves some degree of interpretation. A translation based on formal equivalency has a low degree of interpretation; translators are trying to convey the meaning of each particular word. When faced with a choice between readability and accuracy, formal equivalency translators are willing to sacrifice readability for the sake of accuracy.

By its very nature, a translation based on dynamic equivalency requires a high degree of interpretation. The goal of dynamic equivalency is to make the Bible readable, conveying an idea-for-idea rendering of the original. That means someone must first decide what idea is being communicated, which is the very act of interpretation. How the translators view Scripture becomes extremely important in the final product.

Sadly, there are many in the Bible-translation industry who have a low view of the Scripture. They think the Bible is merely a product of man, replete with mistakes, contradictions, and personal biases. Many translators today have also adopted the postmodern idea of elevating the experience of the reader over the intention of the author. They make the contemporary reader sovereign over the text and demote the intended meaning of the historic human writers who were carried along by one divine author (2 Peter 1:19-21).

Therefore, it’s vital that you find a translation that represents what the Holy Spirit actually said as faithfully as possible. Who’s interested in some contemporary translation committee’s spin on what they think contemporary readers want to read? We want to read what the author intended us to read, which is what the Holy Spirit originally inspired.

 

TRANSLATION SURVEY
The most popular dynamic-equivalency translations, which dominate the evangelical world, are the New International Version (NIV), Today’s New International Version (TNIV), The Message (MSG), The Living Bible (TLB), the Good News Bible (GNB), and the New Living Translation (NLT). Of those, the NIV is the most reliable.

The NIV was completed in 1978. Its translators did not attempt to translate strictly word for word, but aimed more for equivalent ideas. As a result, the NIV doesn’t follow the exact wording of the original Greek and Hebrew texts as closely as the King James Version and New American Standard Bible versions do. Nevertheless, it can be considered a faithful translation of the original texts, and its lucid readability makes it quite popular, especially for devotional reading.

The four most popular formal equivalency translations in English are the King James Version (KJV), the New King James Version (NKJV), the New American Standard Bible (NASB), and the English Standard Version (ESV).

The KJV is the oldest of the four and continues to be the favorite of many. It is known as the Authorized Version of 1611 because King James I approved the project to create an authoritative English Bible. Although it contains many obsolete words (some of which have changed in meaning), many people appreciate its dignity and majesty. The NKJV is a similar translation, taken from the same group of ancient manuscripts, that simply updates the archaic language of the KJV.

The NASB, completed in 1971 and updated in 1995, is a revision of the American Standard Version of 1901. It is a literal translation from the Hebrew and Greek languages that incorporates the scholarship of several centuries of textual criticism conducted since the original KJV. The NASB is the favorite translation for serious Bible study.

The ESV is the most recent translation, which stands firmly in the formal equivalency tradition. It is a very solid translation in an updated language that aims to reproduce the beauty of the KJV. The result is one of the most poetic and beautifully structured versions that maintains a high degree of accuracy and faithfulness to the original languages. [ This is my favorite translation for daily ‘devotional’ reading ].

 

TRANSLATION CHOICE
Which version is the best to use? Ultimately, that choice is up to you. Each of the formal-equivalency versions has strengths and weaknesses, but they are all reliable translations of the Bible. If you want to read a dynamic-equivalency translation, the NIV is the most reliable. If you want to do ‘serious’ study, the NASB would be the best for that. For me, and MANY other pastors, teachers and theologians, the ESV is the most highly regarded translation combining readability and accuracy (The NEW King James is also very good).

Ideally, as a serious student of Scripture, you should become familiar enough with concordances, word-study aids, and conservative commentaries so that even without a thorough knowledge of the original languages, you can explore the nuances of meaning that arise out of the original texts.

 

WRAP UP
More than a million young people take part in the “International Letter-Writing Competition” each year. In 2018, the theme of the competition was “Imagine you are a letter traveling through time. What message do you want to convey to your readers?”

In the Bible, we have a collection of ‘letters’ that—thanks to the inspiration and guidance of the Holy Spirit—have made their way through time to us. As the Christian church grew, Jesus’ disciples wrote to local churches across Europe and Asia Minor to help the people understand their new life in Jesus, many of those letters were collected into the volume we call the Bible today.

So, what did these letter-writers want to convey to their readers? The Apostle John explains that, in his first letter. He is writing about “that which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched” [ 1 John 1:1 ]. He’s writing about his encounter with the living Christ. He writes so that his readers may “have fellowship with” one another, and with “the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ” (1 John 1:3). When we have fellowship together, he writes, their joy will be complete (1 John 1:4). The other letters in the Bible pretty much do the same thing that John’s letter did, draw us into a fellowship that’s beyond time—fellowship with the eternal God.

 

A UNIQUE ‘BOOK’
Christians believe that the Bible is the only book ever ‘written’ by God, and it was written to ‘reveal’ Himself. They also believe that the Bible is the only authoritative and absolutely reliable source of revelation from God, with regard to the origin of man, his dilemma, his salvation, and his destiny.

They believe that the Bible is the source of all knowledge about God, and that God alone is the source of all knowledge.

Christians believe the Bible is the ‘breath’ of God. I believe it is ‘infallible’, in the autographs. In the original autographs (the original manuscripts), there is absolute ‘inerrancy’. No mistakes. As it has come down through the generations of men, scribes have made little changes here and there. But basically, as it is today, there are SO FEW scribal errors, omissions, and additions, that most of them are obvious and known to us. So, we can be confident that in its original languages (Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic), these are the words of God Himself. [ If the God of the Bible is the God of the universe, then I’m thinking that He can preserve His Word down the ages ].

[ FYI: The “Dead Sea Scrolls” shed light on the accuracy of the Bible. The texts discovered provide clear evidence as to the accuracy of our version of the Old Testament and the care with which it was preserved. The following are a few article that will give you more details: https://probe.org/the-dead-sea-scrolls/; http://dss.collections.imj.org.il/isaiah; https://www.museumofthebible.org/book/minutes/666 ].

 

Christians believe that the Bible is THE ONLY moral and spiritual ‘standard’ for man. They believe the Bible is true in every detail, even to the very words in the original manuscripts.

In addition to Scripture being infallible and inerrant, Christians believe it is also ‘complete’. It is all one needs. You don’t need a “vision.” You don’t need a “new revelation.” You don’t need some “great act” of God. You don’t need “voices” from Heaven. The Canon is ‘CLOSED’ (Matthew 5:18; Revelation 22:18-19).

The Bible is ‘effective’. “For the word of God is alive and powerful, “sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart” [ Hebrews 4:12 ]. It is ‘alive’ and powerful!

So, Christians believe that the Bible is ‘authoritative’. This is God’s ‘voice’, and we had better listen. “Hear, O heavens, and give ear O earth for the Lord has spoken” [ Isaiah 1:2 ].

One more thing. Christians believe that the Bible is also ‘sufficient’. You don’t need anything else. It’s sufficient. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God as profitable for doctrine for reproof, for correction, for instruction, and righteousness that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works” [ 2 Timothy 3:16-17 ].

 

Revelation 1:3 says this, “Blessed is he that reads and hears the words of this prophecy and keeps the things that are written therein.” James put it this way; he said, “Whosoever looks into the perfect law of liberty continues in it being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the word, this man shall be blessed. Earlier be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” To be doers of the word is to be blessed; it is sufficient; there’s nothing more needed. The word of God is all. It is infallible. It is inerrant. It is complete. It is effective. It is authoritative. It is sufficient.

 

DAILY ‘FOOD’
So, if I asked you believers if you are reading your Bible daily, what would you say? Well, most of the time when I ask I hear, “I’m trying to.” So then I ask them if they “try” to eat during the day—Breakfast? Lunch? Dinner? (and ‘snacks’ in-between). Of course, they don’t ‘try’ to eat, they ‘do’ eat—or they might faint during the day or even get sick. Food is such a daily ‘priority’, that we just eat!

Well, that’s similar to ‘feeding’ on the Bible daily—for the believer, it’s CRUCIAL for their spiritual ’sustenance’ and ‘growth’! The Devil could care less if the believer eats three meals a day—or ten meals—he just doesn’t want them to ‘feed’ on the Bible, the Word of God. He knows that God’s Word ‘nourishes’ the believer, makes them ‘strong’, and causes them to be more ‘resistant’ to his evil promptings (“the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God” – Ephesians 6:17b).

The Scriptures were SO IMPORTANT to Job that he said they were more important than his necessary food: “I have not departed from the commandment of his lips; I have treasured the words of his mouth more than my daily food” [ Job 23:12 ]. That’s how the believer should think about their Bible reading/study. They need to read it DAILY. Evangelist Ray Comfort says: “No Bible, no breakfast. No read. No feed.”

The believer MUST ‘abide’ in the Bible, since the ‘fruit’ of such discipline is the knowledge of the truth that sets them FREE from the Devil’s ‘provocations’!

 

Theologian Charles Hodge said of the “sword of the Spirit” this: “In opposition…to all the suggestions of the Devil, the safe, simple, and sufficient answer is the Word of God. This puts to flight all the powers of darkness. The Christian finds this to be true in his individual experience. It dissipates his doubts; it drives away his fears; it delivers him from the power of Satan.”

Well, that’s exactly what James said in the Bible: “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” [ James 4:7 ], and to do this, the believer must take up their ‘sword’. They must have it in their ‘hand’, and in their ‘hearts’. They must be like the Psalmist, who said, “I have hidden your Word in my heart that I might not sin against you” [ Psalm 119:11 ].

This principle of ’storing up’ God’s Word has a much wider application than only keeping the believer from sin. The Word, stored in the ‘heart’, provides a mental ‘depository’ for the Holy Spirit to use to mediate His grace to the believer, whatever their need for grace might be at that time.

 

So, if you haven’t been reading your Bible—for whatever reason—ask yourself how can you change your schedule to make time for at least 10-15 minutes of devotions daily?

 

REALLY DOESN’T TAKE A LONG TIME
It only takes 72 HOURS for a sixth-grade American public school student to read the whole Bible, out loud, all the way through. But sadly, estimates say that ONLY 20% of American Christians have read the Bible, all the way through, once (and MUCH LESS than 10% that have read it through more than once!).

Yes, we’re all busy and ‘scheduled out’ until our children leave the home for college. BUT, I wondered if there might be some ‘discretionary’ time that we might be able to ’steal’ from to be able to read through the Bible in one year.

First off, I thought of how much time many of us spend watching movies (at home and at the theaters), playing video games, and watching sports, “AGT,” or cooking shows. I’m thinking there might be an hour or two per week there without eliminating everything. So, that would be 52-104 hours a year.

For a lot of my friends and acquaintances in Michigan (especially because of social distancing requirements during COVID-19), the golf courses are busy (because of a relatively rain-free summer this year). So, 18 holes of golf takes about five hours to play, and about another two hours for travel and the “19th hole”—for a total of seven hours. Many people—especially in my state of Michigan—are on a weekly golf league, that usually starts mid-May and goes to mid-September. With a couple of rain-outs, that would be 10-16 weeks.

So, conservatively, a golfer would spend 70-126 hours playing in the golf league (not including any “hitting some balls” between outings).

Yes, entertainment and down-time are ‘good’ things to do, but AS MUCH as we do? We all have to determine what is the ‘right’ amount, and then the ‘importance’ of each activity compared to getting to ‘know’ God, personally.

 

SIN WILL KEEP YOU ‘FROM’ THE BIBLE
So, if the Bible is really the revealed Word of God, and it has the ‘power’ that people say it has, then why is it that millions of people can read it—and even know it ‘cold’—and still not believe it?

Well, primarily, the evil one, Satan, has ‘blinded’ people to ’seeing’ what the Bible says: “To open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God” [ Acts 28:18a ].

[ FYI: If you are interested in more details about being spiritually ‘blind’, view this previous “Life’s Deep Thoughts” post: https://markbesh.wordpress.com/are-you-blind-v252/ ].

 

Cornelius Van Til, a great apologist for the Christian faith, said, “Man often speak as though the only thing that the sinner needs is true information. This is not the case. Man needs true interpretation, but he also needs to be made a new creature. Sin is not only misinformation, it is also a power of perversion in the soul.”

The sinner’s opposition to the Gospel does not arise from legitimate intellectual issues regarding the truth or the veracity of Scripture. It rises from the ‘rebellion’ of a sinful soul. Mankind, even at his best rational level, cannot attain to this spiritual knowledge.

 

A few posts ago, I talked about Romans 1, which talks about one form of God’s judgment: to give people over to the sins that they choose and to let them live with the consequences of those choices. “God gave them over, gave them over, gave them over,” repeated three times. They didn’t want His Word. They didn’t want His truth, so God gave them over to what they did want. This is the wrath of God’s abandonment.

[ FYI: If you are interested in more details about God’s ‘abandonment’, view this previous “Life’s Deep Thoughts” post: https://markbesh.wordpress.com/protection-removed-v256/ ].

 

To be able to ‘see’ God one must cry out to Him to ‘save’ them—to give them life, to take off their ‘blinders’, to overpower the enemy who has blinded them, to remove the things that God Himself has hidden from them, and bring them into the ‘light’. The sinner MUST ‘throw’ themselves before the ‘throne’ of God and cry out from the depths of their fearful soul, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner. Give me an understanding of the truth.” Augustine of Hippo said, “I believe in order to understand.”

 

GOD WILL NOT ‘COERCE’
Former Muslim, Abdu Murray, said that, “The reason isn’t because the answers were hard to find. The reason is because the answers were hard to embrace.” He also said that he “didn’t want the Gospel message to be true.”

American philosopher Thomas Angel said, “I want atheism to be true. And I’m made uneasy by the fact that some of the most intelligent and well-informed people I know are religious believers. It’s not that I disbelieve in God, and naturally hope that I’m right in my beliefs, is that I hope there is no God. I don’t want there to be a God. I don’t want the universe to be like that.”

So, why doesn’t the very beautiful and ‘powerful’ words of the Scriptures ‘overpower’ a desire like that? Well, God is a ‘gentleman’, and will allow the human to differ with Him. He WILL NOT ‘coerce’ a person into believing in Him.

The musician “Prince” once was exploring spirituality and opened his song “Dolphin” with these words: “How beautiful do the words have to be before they conquer every heart?” Well, the answer is simply that there are NO WORDS, as beautiful as they may be, to overcome someone’s FREE WILL.

God has given us the dignity of free will and will able people reject Him BUT, just like other things in life, there are ‘CONSEQUENCES’ to that decision (even though they think these are only ‘temporal’ consequences).

The Bible, however, never says that if you read the words of the Bible one will just believe, because they are so powerful. No, even Jesus Himself didn’t convince everybody He talked with. The ‘issue’ is that people are not willing to sincerely search out truth, and accept that it actually might ‘cost’ them something (to stop doing something that their conscience is ‘telling’ them something is wrong).

[ FYI: If you would like to delve into the ‘costs’ of following Jesus, read this previous “Life’s Deep Thoughts” post: https://markbesh.wordpress.com/it-will-cost-you-v233/ ].

 

NEED TO BE A ‘BELIEVER’
The Bible also teaches that God loves all people (John 3:16), He longs to be in right relationship with each and every individual (2 Peter 3:9), and He desires that all people come to eternal salvation through Jesus Christ (1 Timothy 2:3-6). In fact, He desires this so much that while everyone was still in utter rebellion against Him, God sent His Son to die to save us (Romans 5:8). That’s how much He loves us! That’s how much He loves YOU! BUT, not all people are ‘children’ of God!

Only those ‘born’ of God’s Spirit through faith in Jesus are children of God (1 John 3:1-10, Galatians 3:26, John 8:34-41). “To all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God—children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.” [ John 1:12-13 ].

SO, one WILL NOT get the ‘full’ understanding of what God wants to tell them unless they are “born again”—one of God’s ‘children’. “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God” [ John 3:3 ].

God saves those who seek Him. Jesus said to, “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these other things will be added to you” [ Matthew 6:33 ]. People experience the power of God’s living Word as they delight in God’s Word, remember God’s Word, and seek God’s Word.

 

Now, there are five characteristics of a “child” of God. Primarily, it will ‘show’ in their life. Here are a few things that the Bible says about those who are ‘children’ of God:

– They love Jesus (John 8:42)
– They believe that Jesus is the Savior (1 John 5:1)
– They love God’s children (1 John 3:10, 5:1)
– They are controlled by the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:9, 14)
– They obey God (1 John 2:29, 3:7-9)

 

So, after reading this list, are you a ‘child’ of God? If not, God longs for you to receive His gift of salvation, become one of His ‘children’, and as a ‘bonus’, be assured of eternity.

The thing is, there are so many benefits in being a child of God—here are a few:

– God loves to bless His children (Psalm 37:4; Matthew 6:33)
– God’s children have been “redeemed,” set free from sin and eternal death by – Jesus’ sacrificial death (Galatians 4:4-5)
– They are His heirs, inheriting spiritual rights and privileges and eternal life (Romans 8:17)
– God’s children have direct access to their Father (Galatians 4:5-7)
– God’s children have a special intimacy with their Father (Galatians 4:6)
They will grow to become like Jesus (1 John 3:2)
– God’s children have peace, unity, and equal status with each other (Galatians 3:26-29)
– They will experience a future resurrection (Romans 8:11)
– God’s children have the presence and confirmation of the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:16)

[ FYI: For more details about becoming “born again,” view this previous “Life’s Deep Thoughts” post: https://markbesh.wordpress.com/saved-from-death-v219/ ].

 

WHY READ THE BIBLE?
Here are five primary reasons why I open my Bible: It tells me about my ‘identity; it furnishes me understanding; it provides me comfort; it reassures me of my salvation; and it gives me hope for the future.

The Bible Gives Identity
The only way you can adequately understand who you are and what you were given life and breath to do is when you look at yourself through the lens of the narrative of Scripture. It’s only in this story that you will learn that you were made by God and for God, that everything you are and have comes from Him, and that you were made to live for something vastly more significant than yourself.

The Bible Gives Understanding
You will never know all that you need to know to live as you were designed to live by human experience, research, and analysis. This is why God immediately spoke with Adam and Eve after He created them. In the same way, God speaks to us in His Word so that we can know and understand, and in knowing and understanding, live as we were created to live.

The Bible Gives Comfort
The world in which you live can be very confusing, distressing, and painful. But the biblical story comforts us with another reality—that our world is not out of control. Rather, our world is under the careful personal control of One who is the ultimate definition of everything that is good, true, wise, and loving. We can rest, not because we understand what’s happening, but because we know the One who rules it all.

The Bible Gives Salvation
This is the ultimate reason for the Word of God. Without it, we wouldn’t know that our biggest problem exists inside of us and is called sin. The biblical story chronicles the great things God has done and is doing to rescue, forgive, and deliver us from our sin. The epicenter of the narrative is the Cross of Jesus Christ, providing for us the one thing that we desperately need but cannot achieve on our own—new ‘life’.

The Bible Gives Hope
The biblical story, because it is a story, has a final chapter. One day, the sickness, sadness, and sin of this broken world will end. We will be like God and with God forever. The Author of this Book has guaranteed the end of the story by raising Jesus from the dead. No matter what happens, we have hope because we know the final page has already been penned!

The Bible will help give one joy, peace, strength, and guidance:

– Only God’s Word can give joy to the sick person who is suffering pain from chronic sickness or disease.
– Only God’s Word can give peace to the anxious person who is facing a severe financial crisis.
– Only God’s Word can give strength to the troubled person with enduring family discord.
– Only God’s Word can give guidance to the confused person who is wrestling with a difficult decision.

God’s Word is exceedingly ‘practical’!

 

So, as you continue to discipline yourself in the reading of Scripture, train yourself to read the Bible as a ‘story’. This story has one central character: God Himself, specifically in the person of Jesus.

From cover to cover, the Bible is a narrative of His wondrous works, and the blessings that are yours by His grace. This old story will impart to you identity, understanding, comfort, salvation, joy, peace, strength, and guidance, and hope!

The only Bible reading ‘plan’ you need is the DESIRE. There are SO MANY OPTIONS available these days with e-mail, Facebook, or ‘push’ notifications on your phone. There really isn’t ANY EXCUSE not to read the Bible through in the next year (and DON’T wait until New Years to do it!). So, hop to it! Start reading it TOMORROW!

 

‘APPROPRIATING’ GRACE
The Apostle Paul, just before he was to be arrested and killed, wanted to pass on to his ‘protégé Timothy the most important things the ‘green’ pastor would need. He said, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness” [ 2 Timothy 3:16 ]. This so happened to be a close to what the Apostle said about the ‘connection’ between God and the Word of His grace that he illustrated in his letter to the Romans: “For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus” [ Romans 15:4-5 ].

Paul tells his reader here that they receive endurance and encouragement from Scripture. Then he names God as the ‘source’ of endurance and encouragement. These are provisions of God’s grace “to help us in out time of need” (Hebrews 4:16). As one goes to the ‘throne of grace’ and asks for it (by prayer), God does provide. However, He primarily provides it through His Word, the Bible.

If one is to appropriate the grace of God, they must regularly expose themselves directly to the Word of God. It is not enough to only heat it preached or taught at church on Sunday, as important as church is, but they need a regular plan of reading, study, and even memorization.

Now, the believer doesn’t earn any “brownie points” by doing these things, any more than they would earn His blessing by eating nutritious foods. But, as the eating of proper food is necessary to sustain a healthy physical life, so the regular ‘intake’ of God’s Word is necessary to sustain a healthy spiritual life, and to regularly appropriate God’s grace!

If we are to appropriate the grace of God, the believer must become ‘intimate’ friends with the Bible. They must seek to know and understand the Scripture’s great truths about God and His character, and about man and his desperate need of God’s grace!

 

IT’S ‘ALIVE’
You can read your favorite fiction book (mine is “The Pilgrim’s Progress”) three maybe four times, but after four times you’ve pretty much got it. However, you can read the Bible 7,000 times and on the 7,001st time that you read it, the Holy Spirit will bring something new to bear and you’ll realize this ‘book’ is ‘ALIVE’! “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” [ Hebrews 4:12 ].

 

This post is, of sorts, my ‘LOVE LETTER’ to YOU! In ‘Christian’ love—like the Apostle Paul—I love you enough to put forth the effort into this post to make you think about the MOST IMPORTANT topic you will ever think about: Just who is Jesus? (Well, the Bible WILL tell you!).

I do all of this because of my life ‘mission statement’: “To take as many people to Heaven with me as I can.” I pray one of them will be YOU!!!

Some of the couple that wrote love letters to each other—that I presented at the beginning of this post—have VERY ’tumultuous’ relationships, with their love for each other changing based on their life circumstances. HOWEVER, God’s love for His ‘children’ NEVER CHANGES (Psalm 86:15; Psalm 109:26; Psalm 136; Romans 5:8; Romans 8:35-39; 1 Corinthians 13:8; 1 Peter 5:6-7; 1 John 4:7-8, 19), and He ‘inspired’ the Bible to be written to TELL YOU how much He LOVES YOU!!!

 

Reading the Bible will literally ‘TRANSFORM’ YOUR LIFE, and it is my prayer that it will DO THAT FOR YOU!

 

[ Excerpts from: Jerry Bridges; Mark Galli; John MacArthur; Jack Wellman; John Piper; Abdu Murray; Billy Sunday; Andrew Norbury; Stephen Altrogge; Mark Galli; Lauren Abraham; Pete Briscoe; Amy Peterson; Paul David Tripp; John Barnett ]

 

>>> SUMMARIZATION OF POST <<<

LOVE LETTERS FROM ‘FAMOUS’ PEOPLE
While jewelry and diamonds may catch the eye, words written from the heart convey your love in a more intimate way.

Love letters have been capturing the minds and hearts of civilization for centuries. The purpose remains the same—to communicate raw emotion.

Love letters as we know them today probably began in the early Renaissance, around the start of the 14th Century. The “Age of Chivalry” produced a series of discrete correspondences based on chaste compliments and courtly love. In the early 18th Century, love letters become much more personal, full of tenderness and charm.

Human beings from every time and place have sought to explain the depth of their emotion and their regard for their partner.

There have been some beautiful letters composed over the years professing one’s love for another. The following is a selection of hand-written love letters exchanged between ‘iconic’ couples throughout history.

– General Napoleon Bonaparte to Joséphine de Beauharnais
– Ludwig van Beethoven to his Immortal Beloved
– John Keats to Fanny Brawne
– Zelda Fitzgerald to F. Scott Fitzgerald
– Winston Churchill to His Wife Clementine
– Frida Kahlo to Diego Rivera
– Orson Welles to Rita Hayworth
– Richard Burton to Elizabeth Taylor
– Marilyn Monroe to Joe DiMaggio
– Johnny Cash’s letter to June Carter Cash
– President Ronald Reagan to First Lady Nancy Reagan

A LOVE ‘LETTER’ IN THE BIBLE
The Song of Solomon, found in the Old Testament, is the ‘voice’ of two lovers praising each other. It is a unique example of sexuality in historical, religious writings.

The “Song of Solomon” (or “Song of Songs”) is the Bible’s definitive book on love, sex, and marriage, and it is filled with sexually colorful images. It is highly sensual in a sanctified and God-blessed way. Since God invented love, sex, and marriage, He intends His people to enjoy the blessings He invented, and the Song of Songs leaves no doubt about that.

Solomon wrote 1005 “songs,” but this is said to be his best. The story involves Solomon, who owned vineyards in the Galilee (8:11), and a peasant girl from Shulam (6:13), who was working among the vines and was bullied by her brothers (1:6). When Solomon came into the area to check on his flocks (1:7), he saw the girl in the vines and it was love at first sight.

The story then goes on to tell of how the couple falls in love, how they are engaged, describes the royal wedding, their honeymoon, and then their ‘falling out’. It continues with their ‘make up’, which is ‘intense’! (Their love is so stirring that they end with another warning to readers about yielding to the temptation of premarital sex).

Even though misunderstandings and conflicts will occur during a marriage, when a couple is committed to God’s perfect plan for marriage and life, nothing can quench the love God gives them, one for the other.

THE BIBLE IS GOD’S ‘LOVE LETTER’
Let me just ask you a quick question. Back when you were falling in love with someone, and you got a love letter from them, did you ‘speed read’ or ‘skim’ it? I’m thinking not. You read every word, slowly, so you wouldn’t miss a thing. All the metaphors ‘touched’ your soul.

Then, you read it over, again and again, to be sure you didn’t miss anything. You let every word ‘soak in’. That’s exactly what the Bible is for the believer. It’s God’s ‘love letter’ to His ‘children’.

Now, to be ‘rigorous’ the Bible is a love letter FROM God…that is ALL ABOUT God. In other words, because God loves us so much, He revealed Himself to us through the Bible.

The Bible is ‘revelatory’. It tells us things about God that we could never know otherwise. It brings into the ‘war room’ of God’s grand plan for salvation, and it removes the spiritual ‘cataracts’ from our eyes to show us who God is and how we can know Him.

So, most importantly, the Bible is ALL ABOUT JESUS. The Scriptures ‘speak’ of Him. On the road to Emmaus, Jesus is speaking to some disciples and “explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning Himself” [ Luke 24:27b ].

The Bible reveals the mercy, grace, and loving-kindness of God, our need for a Savior, God’s great love for us, and absolutely everything we need to know to live our earthly lives and to be “conformed to the image of [God’s] Son, Jesus [ Romans 8:29b ].

A love letter is GREAT, but the ULTIMATE ‘EXPRESSION’ of someone’s love for you is to ‘die’ for you. THAT’S what Jesus did for YOU! He died to forgive us for our sins and reconcile us to God, our loving Father, and resurrected to give us ‘life’. This is the PERFECT LOVE that we ALL are longing for!

GOD ‘SPEAKS’ TO US THRU THE BIBLE
When I open my Bible, it never ceases to amaze me that God wants me to ‘hear’ from Him, personally. Now, it’s not that I expect to hear an ‘audible’ voice, but, from time to time, I have an intuitive ‘sense’ that what I just read was written just to me, “for a time such as this” (Esther 4:14). [ Of course, one must always “test the spirits” ].

When I read, “Love one another, even as I have loved you” [ John 13:34 ], this comes across to me as both absolutely trustworthy and authoritative—and in no way can I ‘escape’ it. In my way of thinking, God just ‘spoke’ to me! Most of the time this is very ‘timely’, since it prompts me to do something—like considering to apologize to someone that I recently ‘hurt’—and usually I read this the day of or the next day after I did the ‘deed’. I think, “Wow, that was amazing timing!” Hmmm.

Theologian Karl Barth said that, “I have read many books, but the Bible reads me.”

THE BIBLE IS NOT JUST ‘ANOTHER’ BOOK
Well, the Bible says this about itself: “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work” [ 2 Timothy 3:16-17 ]. So, even though everyone needs to determine this for themselves. It’s great that there are many compelling reasons that it just might be. The following are a few for you to consider.

– First off, there are ‘direct’ claims by the Bible
– Secondly, there’s the perfect ‘unity’ of the Bible in the midst of its diversity.
– Thirdly, there is a reliable ‘transmission’ of the Bible from antiquity.
– Fourthly, the historical accuracy of the Bible is amazing.
– Fifthly, the scientific accuracy of the Bible is incredible
– Sixthly, of the prophecies that have been fulfilled in the New Testament, ALL OF THEM were fulfilled EXACTLY as the Old Testament prophecy stated them!
– Seventhly, Jesus acknowledged that the Old Testament was ‘of’ God.
– Eighthly, is the amazing ‘indestructibility’ of the Bible.
– Ninth, the ethical superiority of the Bible is stunning.
– Tenth, the Bible is ‘supernatural’.

This book ‘transforms’ the prideful into the humble, the broken are made whole, the weak are made strong, and the tearful are made courageous.

Again, Martin Luther said, “This book is alive. It speaks to me. It has feet; it runs after me. It has hands; it lays hold of me.” Is this just another book? Well, I and MANY OTHERS don’t think so!

The Bible is a unique, AWE-INSPIRING book! However, we don’t want to merely ‘admire’ it, we need to ‘understand’ it! It is still as much ‘alive’ today as it was today it was written!

IS THE BIBLE ‘RELIABLE’?
Some people do not believe that the Bible is “inspired,” the “Word” of God, or that it is even reliable.

Well, when I finally got ‘serious’ about determining for myself whether or not I could ‘trust’ what the Bible said (in the late 1980’s), my business partner, Bob, gave me a book that was relatively new at the time (originally published in 1972, updated in 1979). It was “Evidence That Demands A Verdict” by Josh McDowell (details in the “Resources” section below).

Now, this post is not focused on providing an ‘apologetic’ for the reliability of the Bible, however, the following subjects—from the “Evidence That Demands A Verdict” book—may just ‘whet’ your appetite to do your own investigation:

– The Uniqueness of the Bible
– How Was the Bible Prepared?
– The Reliability of the Bible
– Jesus—A Man of History
– The Trilemma—Lord, Liar, or Lunatic?
– The Messianic Prophecies of the Old Testament Fulfilled in Jesus Christ
– The Resurrection—Hoax or History?
– Prophecy Fulfilled in History

Pastor and evangelist Voddie Baucham says, “I choose to believe the Bible because it’s a reliable collection of historical documents, written by eyewitnesses, during the lifetime of other eyewitnesses. They report supernatural events that took place in fulfillment of specific prophecies, and they claim that their writings are divine rather than human in origin.”

THE BIBLE IS NOT ‘PRACTICAL’ FOR TODAY
Today, in our ‘technological’ age, most have disparaged the Scriptures as being of no practical value—they’re too old and ‘out of touch’. However, for me, there is nothing MORE PRACTICAL for one’s daily life than ‘KNOWING’ the God who created you (Note: See last month’s “Life’s Deep Thoughts” post for more details and resources about knowing the ‘presence’ of God: https://markbesh.wordpress.com/presence-withdrawn-v257/). ONLY in Scripture has God revealed to us the truths about His person, His character, and THE BEST way for humans to live on this earth—and in Heaven for eternity!

WHY WE ‘SHOULD’ READ THE BIBLE
BUT, if Jesus is, in fact, God himself, that puts His claim in an entirely different ‘light’. An infinite being has the ability to say with certainty whether there is one God or many, and whether there are multiple ways to know Him or only one. Jesus doesn’t say that He merely speaks the truth; He claims to be THE embodiment of Truth. He doesn’t say He can give life; He tells us He is the ‘SOURCE’ of life itself—and He doesn’t say He is one pathway to God among many, He asserts He is the ONLY ‘WAY’.

Jesus was not displaying arrogance nor was He trying to foster “spiritual racism.” He simply stated the truth. There is only one God, and He became a man in the person of Jesus. As Jesus walked this earth, He showed us what He is really like and gave us the opportunity to truly know Him. We can wait for another to show up who is ‘seven feet tall and has fireballs in his eyes’, but there is NO OTHER. Jesus tells us plainly, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” [ John 14:6 ].

– ‘SWORD’ OF THE SPIRIT
– ‘PRACTICAL’ REASONS

WHY WE ‘DON’T’ READ THE BIBLE
Well, most of the people I have asked this of tend to give me ‘justifications’. The most used reason (excuse?) is that, “I simply don’t have the time.”

Well, yes, today’s life, especially in America, is VERY BUSY. There is work, family, friends, children’s activities, household ‘duties’, entertainment, personal hobbies, civic duties, church, and then trying to get a ‘fair’ amount of sleep.

The thing is, we are OVERLY ‘DISTRACTED’ by so much. There’s constant e-mails and texts ‘craving’ our attention. Then there’s what’s happening on one’s Social Media ‘channels’. Add to that binge watching Netflix. No wonder why people don’t have any ‘extra’ time to read the Bible.

BUT, people do what they want to do. The things you really want to do, you make time for. The fact of the matter is the everyone has 24 hours a day and seven days a week. The people who read the Bible have 24 hours a day and seven days a week, and the people who don’t read the Bible have 24 hours a day seven days a week. We all have the exact same amount of time, so it’s not a matter of time, it’s a matter of ‘PRIORITIZING’!

HOW TO READ THE BIBLE
So, the ‘IDEA’ of personal Bible study is simple, but it requires DISCIPLINE and ‘long-term’ GOALS. Here’s a few suggested steps that will give you a ‘pattern’ to follow:

– READING
– INTERPRETING
– EVALUATING
– APPLYING
– CORRELATING

So, it’s not enough just to ‘STUDY’ the Bible, one must also ‘MEDITATE’ upon it and ‘IMMERSE’ oneself in it. Moses’ successor Joshua said it well: “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success” [ Joshua 1:8 ].

‘BENEFITS’ OF READING THE BIBLE
Well, first off, it’s the most popular book worldwide. It’s an all-time bestseller. About 100 MILLION copies are distributed EVERY YEAR, in hundreds of different languages.

It is not only popular, but it is also a really great read. I mean it’s great literature. It has an incredible story, it is reliable history, it has beautiful poetry, and prolific storytelling of adventure, action, and drama. [ Yes, it’s better than my all-time favorite, “The Pilgrim’s Progress” ;^D ].

So, those are all great reasons to read the Bible, but there’s an even better one: When one reads it, God ‘blesses’ that person (“Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.” – Psalm 1:1-2).

In addition to that, God promises to ‘speak’ to a believer, and He will lead the believer into all wisdom: “and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” [ 1 Timothy 3:15 ]. God will be ‘objectively’ KNOWABLE to the believer by reading the Bible. Wow!

– ‘PRACTICAL’ BENEFITS
– SPIRITUAL ‘NOURISHMENT’
– SPIRITUAL ‘GROWTH’
– DIVINE ‘BLESSING’
– DIVINE ‘VICTORY’
– DIVINE ‘TRUTH’
– DIVINE ‘REVELATION’
– ONLY ‘REVELATION’ NEEDED
– DIVINELY ‘INSPIRED’
– DIVINE ‘AUTHORITY’
– TRANSFORMATION
– KNOWLEDGE
– SOURCE OF ‘REAL’ JOY
– A BELIEVER’S ‘OBEDIENCE’
– PRODUCES ‘RIGHTEOUSNESS’
– SPIRITUAL ‘PROTECTION’

WHAT TRANSLATION’ SHOULD I READ?
The common question of which Bible translation to use is very important—since it concerns the most important words ever spoken, the words of God the Creator. It’s crucial to understand at the outset that behind each version is a fundamental philosophy of Bible translation. You want to make sure the version you use reproduces in your own language what God actually said.

The most popular dynamic-equivalency translations, which dominate the evangelical world, are the New International Version (NIV), Today’s New International Version (TNIV), The Message (MSG), The Living Bible (TLB), the Good News Bible (GNB), and the New Living Translation (NLT). Of those, the NIV is the most reliable.

The four most popular formal equivalency translations in English are the King James Version (KJV), the New King James Version (NKJV), the New American Standard Bible (NASB), and the English Standard Version (ESV).

The NASB, completed in 1971 and updated in 1995, is a revision of the American Standard Version of 1901. It is a literal translation from the Hebrew and Greek languages that incorporates the scholarship of several centuries of textual criticism conducted since the original KJV. The NASB is the favorite translation for serious Bible study.

WRAP UP
In the Bible, we have a collection of ‘letters’ that—thanks to the inspiration and guidance of the Holy Spirit—have made their way through time to us. As the Christian church grew, Jesus’ disciples wrote to local churches across Europe and Asia Minor to help the people understand their new life in Jesus, many of those letters were collected into the volume we call the Bible today.

So, what did these letter-writers want to convey to their readers? The Apostle John explains that, in his first letter. He is writing about “that which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched” [ 1 John 1:1 ]. He’s writing about his encounter with the living Christ. He writes so that his readers may “have fellowship with” one another, and with “the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ” (1 John 1:3). When we have fellowship together, he writes, their joy will be complete (1 John 1:4). The other letters in the Bible pretty much do the same thing that John’s letter did, draw us into a fellowship that’s beyond time—fellowship with the eternal God.

– A UNIQUE ‘BOOK’
– DAILY ‘FOOD’
– REALLY DOESN’T TAKE A LONG TIME
– SIN WILL KEEP YOU ‘FROM’ THE BIBLE
– GOD WILL NOT ‘COERCE’
– NEED TO BE A ‘BELIEVER’
– WHY READ THE BIBLE?
– ‘APPROPRIATING’ GRACE
– IT’S ‘ALIVE’

You can read your favorite fiction book (mine is “The Pilgrim’s Progress”) three maybe four times, but after four times you’ve pretty much got it. However, you can read the Bible 7,000 times and on the 7,001st time that you read it, the Holy Spirit will bring something new to bear and you’ll realize this ‘book’ is ‘ALIVE’! “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” [ Hebrews 4:12 ].

 

This post is, of sorts, my ‘LOVE LETTER’ to YOU! In ‘Christian’ love—like the Apostle Paul—I love you enough to put forth the effort into this post to make you think about the MOST IMPORTANT topic you will ever think about: Just who is Jesus? (Well, the Bible WILL tell you!).

I do all of this because of my life ‘mission statement’: “To take as many people to Heaven with me as I can.” I pray one of them will be YOU!!!

 

Some of the couple that wrote love letters to each other—that I presented at the beginning of this post—have VERY ’tumultuous’ relationships, with their love for each other changing based on their life circumstances. HOWEVER, God’s love for His ‘children’ NEVER CHANGES (Psalm 86:15; Psalm 109:26; Psalm 136; Romans 5:8; Romans 8:35-39; 1 Corinthians 13:8; 1 Peter 5:6-7; 1 John 4:7-8, 19), and He ‘inspired’ the Bible to be written to TELL YOU how much He LOVES YOU!!!

 

Reading the Bible will literally ‘TRANSFORM’ YOUR LIFE, and it is my prayer that it will DO THAT FOR YOU!

>>> END OF SUMMARIZATION <<<

 

RELATED POSTS:

“‘Protection’ Removed?”:
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/protection-removed-v256/

“Are You ‘Blind’?”:
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/are-you-blind-v252/

“Ready For ‘Battle’”:
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/ready-for-battle-v235/

“It Will ‘Cost’ You”:
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/it-will-cost-you-v233/

“‘Saved’ From Death”:
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/saved-from-death-v219/

“The Purpose of ‘Tests’”:
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/the-purpose-of-tests-v213/

“End Of Your ‘Rope’”:
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“Are You ‘Prepared’?”:
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/are-you-prepared-v210/

“‘Who’ Can You Trust?”:
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/who-can-you-trust-v194/

“The ‘BIG Story’”:
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“The ‘EVENT’”:
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/the-event-v140/

“What is “Truth”? (Part 4):
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/may-09-v123/

“What is “Truth”? (Part 3):
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/apr-09-v122/

“What is “Truth”? (Part 2):
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/mar-09-v121/

“What is “Truth”? (Part 1):
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“Meant to Live How? p2”:
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/jun-05-v76/

“Meant to Live How? p1”:
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/may-05-v75/

“Overloaded Lives p2”:
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/apr-05-v74/

“Overloaded Lives p1”:
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/mar-05-v73/

“The ‘Great’ Life?”:
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/feb-05-v72/

“What If It’s True?”:
https://markbesh.wordpress.com/jan-03-v47/

 

‘PRAYER’ OF REPENTANCE
In the Bible, there is a parable that Jesus told about a Pharisee and a tax collector praying in the Temple. He notes that the tax collector didn’t even dare to lift his eyes toward Heaven as he prayed. Instead he “beat his chest in sorrow, saying, ‘O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner’”—and Jesus said that the tax collector “went home justified,” he had been “born again” and ‘reconciled’ by God. (Luke 18:9-14).

If you are ‘sensing’ something like that right now, let me strongly encourage you to HUMBLE YOURSELF, CRY OUT to God, and PLEAD for Him to mercifully ‘SAVE’ YOU! None of us have a ‘claim’ on our salvation, nor do we have any ‘works’ that would cause us to deserve it or earn it—it is purely a gift of Divine grace—and all any of us can do is ask. So, CONFESS YOUR SINS and acknowledge to God that you have no hope for Heaven apart from what He provides through Jesus.

There is no ‘formula’ or certain words for this. So just talk to God, in your own words—He knows your ‘heart’. If you are genuinely sincere, and God does respond to your plea, one will usually have a sense of joy and peace.

Jesus said, “He that comes to Me, I will not cast out” [ John 6:37 ].

[ FYI: This is a great sermon on the “Call to Repentance” by John MacArthur from his book “The Gospel According to Jesus”: https://www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/90-22/the-call-to-repentance
(Transcript: http://www.spiritedesign.com/TheCallToRepentance-JohnMacArthur(Jul-27-2019).pdf) ].

[ NOTE: If you have ‘tasted the kindness of the Lord’, please e-mail me—I would love to CELEBRATE with you, and help you get started on your ‘journey’ with Jesus! ].

 

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RESOURCES:

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My son Tyler, a video producer, does videos of primarily the elder community that would like to tell their life stories to their family. It’s called “The Late Life Archive”:

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“The Late Life Archive” is a storytelling service developed by SPJ award-winner Tyler Besh. It is designed to preserve the every-day stories of family members. This way, sharing it with current and, especially future loved ones, will be as easy as pressing play!

OVERVIEW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=136&v=gJv1EC99d-E

EXAMPLES:

– “Uncle Big | Route 66″: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wi6R3dxmX6

[ Update | April 2020: I’ve been informed by the Sartor family that Don has passed today in Oklahoma. I am grateful and honored to have had the chance to preserve his stories. Rest in peace Big. ].

– “Don Farmer | Cigar Box Guitar Craftsman”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hkiu8eLfXIA

Preserving family stories for future generations.

WEBSITE: http://trustydigitalmedia.com/lla

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“Why the Bible?”

The Bible is the world’s bestselling book of all time. While it’s humanity’s most loved book, it’s also the most hated. It’s adored by those who obey its precepts and detested by those who don’t. It promises peace in troubled times and assurance of salvation from death. Compared to the light of the Scriptures, every other book is nothing but a blown-out candle.

While the world sits in darkness, the Bible is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. Learn how to convince of its inspiration, explain its reliability, answer the accusation that God is a moral monster, and much more.

Hear ten top Bible teachers, each using the popular “TED Talk” presentation style, sharing the cream of the crop in fifteen minutes. The fast-paced event will conclude with an hour-long Q&A panel, where we’ll take your questions live.

Those facing financial hardship, as well as pastors and missionaries, can attend this conference freely by requesting a complimentary registration.

Conference: https://www.livingwaters.com/why-the-bible/

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“66 Love Letters”
By: Larry Crabb

Forever change the way you look at the Bible . . . and your own life

Have you ever read the Bible only to come away confused? Ever wondered if God actually had you in mind when He began telling His story?

Though life may not be going according to your plan, God has another one, far better than you can imagine. From Genesis to Revelation, experience His invitation to get you dancing with joy.

In 66 Love Letters Larry Crabb offers a fresh, relational look at Scripture:

“When you finish reading my first love letter to you, I want you to realize that I never underestimated how thoroughly you’d mess up your life or how painfully you would struggle and suffer, and I don’t want you to underestimate your failures or struggles either. They’re all part of the story I’m telling. “But neither have I underestimated my determination or ability to enter both the mess you’ve made and the pain you feel, then turn everything around. I can, and I will, make everything good again. Never underestimate me.”

Larry’s intimate conversation with God asks deeply honest questions such as:

“God, what is it you wanted me to see in Obadiah?”
“And what’s up with Leviticus? Is there anything there for me?”
“This one verse in Galatians has always frustrated me. Why is that?”
“The way you wrote Revelation makes it difficult to understand―why didn’t you just describe what will happen in a straightforward way?”
Listen to the story of God unfold through these chapters, and you’ll fi nd not only His redeeming love but His plan and provision designed especially for you.

https://www.amazon.com/66-Love-Letters-Conversation-Invites/dp/0849946409/

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“How to Interpret the Bible for Yourself”
By: Richard L. Mayhue

Cutting straight God’s Word means precision and accuracy. It means preaching and teaching the Word as God gave it. This book discusses obstacles that keep us from truly accurate biblical interpretation. Richard Mayhue’s grasp of the problem of misinterpretation, joined with clear, readable style, make this book mandatory for every person eager to avoid the many pitfalls surrounding accurate interpretation of the Word of God.

https://www.amazon.com/Interpret-Bible-Yourself-Richard-Mayhue/dp/0884691780

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“The Essential Bible Guide: 100 Readings Through the World’s Most Important Book”
By: Whitney Kuniholm

“I’ve tried to read the Bible but I’ve never made it all the way through.”

“I’ve never read the Bible but I’d be interested to find out what’s in it.”

“I love reading the Bible but I need help to understand how it applies to my life.”

The Bible is the most influential book ever published, and yet it can be difficult or just plain confusing to read. The Essential Bible Guide takes you through the Old and New Testaments in 100 carefully selected readings–The Essential 100–so you’ll see the big picture of the Bible. Each reading includes insightful reflections written in a warm and inviting style to help you reflect on what the Bible has to say to you today.

Whether it’s the first time you’ve opened a Bible or the thousandth, The Essential Bible Study Guide will lead you on an exciting journey through the world’s most important book.

Also includes overviews of the major Bible themes and an interactive Review journal to record personal insights.

https://www.amazon.com/Essential-Bible-Guide-Readings-Important/dp/0877880743/

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“Why Believe the Bible?”
By: John MacArthur

With the authority of the Bible being questioned by many in today’s society and the need for solid, biblical teaching, the timeliness of Why Believe the Bible is apparent. The esteemed Bible teacher John MacArthur examines many common questions about the Bible in this practical examination of the authority, infallibility and trustworthiness of God’s Word. Readers will come to desire a deeper Bible study time after reading “Can We Really Take God’s Word for It?” “What Does God’s Word Do for You?” and “How to Get the Most from God’s Word.” For new Christians and those wanting to brush up on the basic truths of the Bible, Why Believe the Bible features a Bible reading plan with study tips and an appendix with helpful tools for Bible study.

https://www.amazon.com/Why-Believe-Bible-John-MacArthur/dp/0830745645/

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“Final Word: Why We Need the Bible”
By: John MacArthur

The Bible is under attack on all sides. Unbelievers denounce it as backward, narrow-minded, and intolerant, and even some professing Christians deny its truth to gain approval from the culture. With each assault, we hear echoes of the serpent’s question in the garden of Eden: “Did God really say?” Unfortunately, many believers don’t know how to answer these challenges and find their confidence in God’s Word shaken.

In Final Word: Why We Need the Bible, Dr. John MacArthur defends the trustworthiness of Scripture, with the goal of equipping the church to stand firm for the truth even when others abandon it. Only when God’s people recognize the Bible for what it is—God’s inerrant, authoritative Word—will they be able to fulfill their calling and carry the message of God’s salvation to the world.

https://www.amazon.com/Final-Word-Why-Need-Bible/dp/1642891266/

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“Our Daily Bread Jesus Sourcebook: The A-to-Z Guide to the People, Places, and Teachings of Jesus’s Life”
By: George W. Knight

Want to know more about Jesus? Learn about every aspect of His life with the Our Daily Bread Jesus Sourcebook. This user-friendly guide breaks down the life and ministry of Jesus in a simple format that’s easy to understand.

Here’s what you’ll find inside:
Everything listed in alphabetical order
Answers to questions many people have asked about Jesus
Simple, down-to-earth language
Definitions of Bible words and phrases
Explanations about the stories Jesus told and the miracles He performed
Brief articles about the people He interacted with, places He went, and things He said
The Our Daily Bread Jesus Sourcebook is a great way for you to know who Jesus is and all He did.

George W. Knight is author of several successful Bible reference titles, including the Layman’s Bible Dictionary, the Layman’s Bible Handbook, and the Layman’s Bible Concordance. George’s books have sold more than 700,000 copies.

https://www.amazon.com/Our-Daily-Bread-Jesus-Sourcebook/dp/1627078851/

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“Zondervan Handbook to the Bible: Fifth Edition”
By: David and Pat Alexander (Editors)

Continuously in print since 1973, this fifth edition of the classic Zondervan Handbook to the Bible has been updated with new imagery. From the history and design of the temple in Jerusalem to God’s relationship with the universe, you’ll find it here. The land, culture, battles, feast days, heroes, and villains of Scripture come alive through spectacular color-filled articles and images of meticulous clarity and detail.

Special features include:

– A four color guide to all the books of the Bible
– Over 120 articles by an international team of experts
– More than 700 color photographs, many of them new
– 68 maps and 20 charts

Complete with a comprehensive “Rapid Fact-Finder to the Bible” section, the Zondervan Handbook to the Bible remains the best book to have next to your Bible.

https://www.amazon.com/Zondervan-Handbook-Bible-Fifth/dp/0310537940/

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“ESV MacArthur Study Bible”

For years, the spiritual lives of countless men and women all over the world have been strengthened with the help of The MacArthur Study Bible. This all-in-one spiritual library contains John MacArthur’s personal study notes below the full-length Bible text. Virtually every Scripture has a matching study note with detailed information, explanation, and helpful insight. These notes are based on John’s verse-by-verse approach to the Bible and nearly forty years of careful study. John’s goal is to let the Bible speak for itself—nothing more, nothing less.

The MacArthur Study Bible is an invaluable resource for your library. It can transform your personal time in God’s Word by clarifying difficult passages, bringing unseen cultural and historical details to life, and helping you understand and apply biblical truth.

Includes:

– Complete English Standard Version Bible text
– Nearly 25,000 explanatory notes from John MacArthur
– More than 140 two-color maps, charts, timelines, and illustrations
– Introductions to each Bible book
– Index to key biblical doctrines
– Over 80,000 cross-references
– Extensive concordance
– A section of full-color maps
– Bible reading plans
– Concise articles on “How We Got the Bible” and “Introduction to the Bible”

https://www.amazon.com/MacArthur-Study-Bible-Personal-Size/dp/1433540614/

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“The MacArthur Daily Bible”

A unique resource based on the popular MacArthur Study Bible, The MacArthur Daily Bible takes a portion of the Old Testament, New Testament, Psalms, and Proverbs for each day of the year—with background notes and explanations from John MacArthur—to help guide and inform your study of God’s Word.

John’s insight maximizes the benefit of each day’s reading. If a commitment to daily Bible reading has never worked for you before, The MacArthur Daily Bible is the answer.

Includes:
– Yearly reading guide
– Daily reader’s notes from Bible teacher John MacArthur
– Suggestions for Bible reading
– Complete NKJV text in daily portions
– 52 key passages of the Bible for study or memorization

https://www.amazon.com/NKJV-MacArthur-Daily-Bible-Paperback/dp/0718003578/

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“MacArthur’s Quick Reference Guide To The Bible”
By: John MacArthur

A student reference to all sixty-six books in the Bible covers key doctrines; main characters; historical, geographic, and cultural information; key words; and interpretive challenges.

https://www.amazon.com/Macarthurs-Quick-Reference-Guide-Bible/dp/0849942802/

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“Grasping God’s Word: A Hands-On Approach to Reading, Interpreting, and Applying the Bible”
By: J. Scott Duvall and J. Daniel Hays

Grasping God’s Word has proven itself in classrooms across the country as an invaluable help to students who want to learn how to read, interpret, and apply the Bible for themselves. The third edition, revised based on feedback from professors, will continue to serve college-level students and lay learners well in their quest to gain a firm grasp on the rock of God’s word.

Old Testament scholar J. Daniel Hays and New Testament expert J. Scott Duvall provide practical, hands-on exercises to guide students through the interpretive process. To emphasize the Bible’s redemptive arc and encourage correlation across the biblical canon, the authors have included a call to “Consult the biblical map. How does a theological principle fit with the rest of the Bible?” as an additional step in the Interpretive Journey. This edition has also been rearranged for clarity and includes updated illustrations, appendices, bibliography, and assignments.

A robust suite of learning aids is available for purchase to be used alongside the textbook to help students excel in their studies. These include a workbook, video lectures for each chapter featuring the authors, and a laminated quick study sheet with key concepts from the book. Free teaching resources for instructors and learning resources for students are available for Grasping God’s Word on ZondervanAcademic.com.

https://www.amazon.com/Grasping-Gods-Word-Hands-Interpreting/dp/0310492572/

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“The Wayfinding Bible: Helping You Navigate God’s Word”
By Doris Rikkers (Editor)

What if you had a trusted friend to guide you through God’s Word every day? Whether you want a fast overview of the grand story of the Bible or a deeper exploration of the riches of Scripture, The Wayfinding Bible is that guide.

With an innovative, full-color visual guide at the top of each reading, The Wayfinding Bible provides you with three paths through God’s Word: the Fly-Over Route, the Direct Route, and the Scenic Route. Following the Fly-Over Route, you’ll cover the most important events in the Bible in just 40 readings, giving you a fresh overview of how these events tell the story of God’s redemption. Following the Direct Route’s 200 readings, you’ll develop a better understanding of how God’s story develops through history. Following the Scenic Route, you’ll explore new territory while discovering a richness and depth in God’s Word that you’ve not seen before. All without the discouragement of getting bogged down in any single book.

Whether you are encountering the Bible for the first time or simply looking for a new journey through Scripture, you will always know where you are and where you’re going in God’s Word. Just choose your route, and prepare yourself for life-changing experiences with God.

Special features:
– Getting Your Bearings: These 8 two-page articles occur at major turning points of Scripture and help the reader stay on track
– Side Trips: Explore a known concept in greater depth or read about a topic for the first time
– Scenic Overlooks: Stunning visuals including maps, photos, infographics, and charts that aid in understanding the Bible text

The Wayfinding Bible uses the clear and understandable New Living Translation text.

https://www.amazon.com/Wayfinding-Bible-Helping-Navigate-Gods/dp/1414361920/

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“A Love Letter From God: Knowing Him Intimately, Being Intimately Known”
By: Bobby Allen Jr.

All of life is a journey. Not that we are necessarily looking for something, but things happen around us and it challenges us to explore their meaning or significance in this life. We look around and think, “this world hasn’t always been like this, it had to have a beginning.” If that’s the case will it also have an ending? If this is creation, then there has to be Creator. Is there really a God out there somewhere? If so, what is He like? How does He feel about me? What does He have to say about me and my life? What difference does He make in my life? Imagine reading the bible from Genesis to Revelation as a letter instead of just 66 books that make up the Old and New Testament. Not just any letter, but a love letter written personally to you from God. It’s possible that reading the bible may never be the same for you. You’ll enjoy a sweeter intimacy and an even greater desire to read the bible and learn more about this loving God. Can you imagine focusing on God and His personality and character as He comes alive in each story? You will notice how He interacted with the people and how He worked in every day events throughout history. As you read each chapter, notice His plan for mankind unfold and His merciful love for us that drips off each page. There is a also a companion study guide and leader’s guide that goes with this book so that you can lead your own small group. It is also used in leadership training.

https://www.amazon.com/Love-Letter-God-Knowing-Intimately/dp/1507864388/

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“The Book You Can Trust”
By: John Samuel Barnett

Take your Bible and hold it. I want to talk to you about what you’re holding. You all are holding something that is unlike anything else that in 5,000 recorded years of human history has ever been produced on this planet. Everything else on this planet is just something from the planet that’s been either, painted or built or sculptured or carved or something. This is not from this planet. This is the very breath of God breathed out. This is the very voice of the infinite, endless of days, eternal, all-powerful creator of the universe who has communicated to us and has intercepted, intersected, and invaded time and space and spoken to us. This book is unlike any book. It’s unlike any other piece of any part of this civilization of humanity that ever existed. This is not normal. This is not like Mary Baker Glover Patterson Eddy Fry’s book of Christian Science. This is not like the Koran or the writings collected of Joseph Smith. This is not of this planet. This is the very breath of God. I hope you realize when you hold this book it’s different. It’s special. I hope you don’t just flip it aside.

https://www.amazon.com/Book-You-Can-Trust-ebook/dp/B001QCYJR6

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“Book You Can Trust”
By: John Barnett

Series: 1 Thessalonians 2:13

If you’d open in your Bibles with me please, we’re going to 1 Thessalonians 2:13 again, as we continue through this magnificent epistle penned by the apostle Paul for the glory of Christ.

Last Sunday morning we were having our morning worship service outside the great amphitheater in Ephesus sitting actually in the entry on the stones of the foundation of that huge, huge theater. And as we sat there, we read Christ’s letter to the Ephesians in Revelation chapter two. What a rich time. And then we walked down that main street and looked at just a tiny slice of the ruins. Ephesus of course was the largest of all the cities of the ancient Roman Empire. It’s the largest of all the ruins of any biblical city, and they’ve only done a slice of it, it’s so massive, so many square miles. But as we sat there, I thought how the apostle Paul would come to a city and he would just stand in the marketplace and he would be a total nobody that no one knew. He’d be an unknown commodity. And he’d walk in and he would start at the top of his voice proclaiming something they’d never heard before, and those people would listen to that and their lives would be utterly transformed.

Have you ever thought of it in that sense? I mean, next time you go to the mall and some wacko is out there, you know, promoting something or somebody is standing on the street corner screaming and raving, that’s what Paul looked like. And yet what he was speaking was the very word of God.

Look at verse 13 of chapter two and I want to show you what I mean. “For this reason,” 1 Thessalonians 2:13, “we also thank God ceaselessly because when you received the word of God which you heard from us,” when he was speaking he was giving God’s word, “you welcomed it not as the word of men but as it is in truth, the word of God.”

Series: https://www.sermonsearch.com/sermon-outlines/49452/book-you-can-trust-1-of-40/

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“He Is There and He Is Not Silent”
By: Francis Schaeffer

Tyndale celebrates the thirtieth anniversary of this twentieth-century spiritual classic with a special commemorative edition featuring new foreword by Chuck Colson and introduction by Dr. Jerram Barrs, director of the Schaeffer Institute.

He Is There and He Is Not Silent discusses fundamental questions about God, such as who he is and why he matters.

https://www.amazon.com/He-There-Not-Silent/dp/084231413X

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“Love Letters to God”
By: Lynn D. Morrissey

Women yearn to share their experiences with the Lover of their souls in a way that is honest and simple, yet deeply satisfying. The key to this intimate self-expression is prayer-journaling. By pouring her heart out on paper to God, a woman can enjoy God’s loving presence, explore her purpose and passion, appreciate life’s beauty and answer its perplexities, experience spiritual transformation, and leave a permanent record of God’s faithfulness in her life. Love Letters to God is a woman’s invitation to take a personal pilgrimage through her own ‘sacred writings’ to the very heart of God.

DISCOVER THE WAY TO GOD’S HEART

Your holding an invitation in your hands—an invitation to take a personal pilgrimage through your own ‘sacred writings’ to the very heart of God.

If you’re intimidated by praying aloud or easily distracted during your devotional time, pouring your heart out on paper will give you the privacy and intimacy you need. Inspired by these beautifully written reflections, you’ll find the most fullfilling way to enjoy God’s loving presence, explore your purpose and passion, and leave a permanent record of His love and faithfulness in your life.

Find freedom, healing, hope, and security as you share your deepest longings with the lover of your soul.

Story Behind the Book

Writing one’s prayers in a journal (unlike verbal or silent prayers) provides an actual safe place to grow spiritually and to enjoy and enhance a personal relationship with God. Verbal prayers are soon forgotten, but our “love letters to God” become a permanent place for exploring our hearts, a tangible testimony of God’s love and faithfulness in our lives, and a detailed document of our spiritual journeys. We can literally see the progression of changes in our lives as expressed on the “pages of our soul,” our prayer journals, and we can see God’s answers to our prayers recorded there. Like the psalmists, many people have discovered that writing is the key to intimate self-expression, providing a deep, emotional catharsis that is often missing from their verbal or silent prayers.

https://www.amazon.com/Love-Letters-God-Morrissey-2004-01-14/dp/B01K3HKOWI

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“The Essential 100”

The Essential 100 Challenge (E100) helps you get an overview of the Bible… without getting bogged down. The Plan guides you through 50 Old Testament passages and 50 New Testament passages — The Essential 100 — so you can see the big picture of God’s Word, and form a daily Bible reading habit in the process. All in 100 Days.

Reading Plan: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/25-the-essential-100

Overview PDF: https://hopechurchtw.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Bible-Reading-Plan-E100.pdf

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xh4bjQbk1VY

Book: https://www.amazon.com/E100-ESSENTIAL-ONE-HUNDRED-BIBLE-READING/dp/B00XM0DMWS/

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“How to Study the Bible”
By: Dwight L. Moody

I will never forget thy precepts; for with them thou hast caused me to live. (Psalm 119:93)

There is no situation in life for which you cannot find some word of consolation in Scripture. If you are in affliction, if you are in adversity and trial, there is a promise for you. In joy and sorrow, in health and in sickness, in poverty and in riches, in every condition of life, God has a promise stored up in His Word for you.

This classic book by Dwight L. Moody brings to light the necessity of studying the Scriptures, presents methods which help stimulate excitement for the Scriptures, and offers tools to help you comprehend the difficult passages in the Scriptures. To live a victorious Christian life, you must read and understand what God is saying to you. Moody is a master of using stories to illustrate what he is saying, and you will be both inspired and convicted to pursue truth from the pages of God’s Word.

https://www.amazon.com/How-Study-Bible-Dwight-Moody/dp/1622454561/

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“How to Study the Bible for Yourself”
By: Tim LaHaye

Bestselling author Tim LaHaye is a nationally recognized Bible teacher who wants each reader to know that the Bible was written for them—they need not rely on scholars and teachers to interpret it. In this 30th anniversary edition of his bestselling How to Study the Bible for Yourself(more than 850,000 copies sold) readers will discover how to—locate the Bible’s major principles, promises, and commands understand key verses and themes achieve an enriching, lifelong habit of Bible study LaHaye’s practical and inspiring method of study will open up the joy, wisdom, and excitement of the Bible to those who have been studying for years or anyone beginning to explore the wonders of God’s Word.

https://www.amazon.com/How-Study-Bible-Yourself-LaHaye/dp/0736916962/

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“How to Study Your Bible: Discover the Life-Changing Approach to God’s Word”
by Kay Arthur David Arthur, and Pete De Lacy

Beloved Bible teacher Kay Arthur’s inductive study method has helped millions of people discover the truth of God’s Word for themselves. This bestselling and dynamic guide, written with David Arthur and Pete De Lacy, invites readers of all levels of Bible literacy and learning to dive deeper into God’s promises.

Now you can cultivate the inductive skills of observation, interpretation, and application and become an active participant in God’s Word. In 15 easy-to-understand chapters, the authors present a systematic approach that includes key words, context studies, comparison and contrasts, topical studies, and more.

This life-changing way of understanding and exploring Scripture reveals the Bible’s message and helps you live boldly and confidently in God’s truths.

https://www.amazon.com/How-Study-Your-Bible-Life-Changing/dp/0736953434/

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“The New Evidence That Demands A Verdict: Evidence I & II Fully Updated in One Volume To Answer The Questions Challenging Christians in the 21st Century”
By: Josh McDowell

Evidence I & II-The classic defense of the faith: Now fully updated to answer the questions challenging evangelical faith today.

The New Evidence maintains its classic defense of the faith yet addresses new issues.

The New Evidence is destined to equip believers with a ready defense for the next decade and beyond

https://www.amazon.com/New-Evidence-That-Demands-Verdict/dp/0785242198/

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“The Case for Christ: A Journalist’s Personal Investigation of the Evidence for Jesus”
By: Lee Strobel

A SEASONED JOURNALIST CHASES DOWN THE BIGGEST STORY IN HISTORY

Is there credible evidence that Jesus of Nazareth really is the Son of God?

Retracing his own spiritual journey from atheism to faith, Lee Strobel, former legal editor of the Chicago Tribune, cross-examines a dozen experts with doctorates who are specialists in the areas of old manuscripts, textual criticism, and biblical studies.

Strobel challenges them with questions like How reliable is the New Testament? Does evidence for Jesus exist outside the Bible? Is there any reason to believe the resurrection was an actual event?

Strobel’s tough, point-blank questions make this bestselling book read like a captivating, fast-paced novel. But it’s not fiction. It’s a riveting quest for the truth about history’s most compelling figure.

What will your verdict be in the The Case for Christ?

“Lee Strobel probes with bulldog-like tenacity the evidence for the truth of biblical Christianity.”

Bruce M. Metzger, PhD, Professor of New Testament, Emeritus, Princeton Theological Seminary

https://www.amazon.com/Case-Christ-Journalists-Personal-Investigation/dp/0310339308

Wikipedia Page: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lee_Strobel

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“The Case for Christ” (Movie)

An award-winning investigative journalist — and avowed atheist — who applies his well-honed journalistic and legal skills to disprove the newfound Christian faith of his wife… with unexpected, life-altering results.

Movie Trailer: https://app.pureflix.com/videos/337976870486/play?autoplay=true

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“THE SEARCH FOR MEANING” WEBSITE

This site presents discussions on the 12 most commonly asked questions about the Christian faith.

The 12 discussions are accessed by the “tabs” at the bottom of the page. The tabs are numbered 1-12. Roll your mouse over them and you will see the question displayed at the right. Click on the number to select that question.

Within each question (i.e. tabs 1-12), there are subtopics (or dialogues) to select that appear as smaller tabs underneath the numbered tabs. Roll your mouse over them and the title of these topics is also displayed to the right. Click on the open rectangle to select that dialogue.

For each question (1-12), a link to related resources and an optional flowchart is provided. To access this material, click on the respective words, “Related Resources” or “Options Flowchart.”

To play a more detailed discussion of the subject, between two people, select the desired dialogue and click on “Play Audio Dialogue.”

In the upper right-hand corner of the page, there is an icon that looks like binoculars looking at a question mark. Click on this icon to return to the homepage.

In the upper right-hand corner of a “Related Resources” page, there is an icon that looks like some books. Click on this icon to get to an “overview” page that has links to all of the resources for all of the questions. There also are additional “appendices” for most of the questions.

In the upper right-hand corner of a “Flowchart” page, there is an icon that looks like an Org chart. Click on this icon to get to an “overview” page that has links to all of the flowcharts.

http://4vis.com/sfm/sfm_pres/sp_q1_d1_1of10.html

[ Content by: Bill Kraftson and Lamar Smith; Website by Mark Besh ]

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“FRUITS OF THE BEATITUDES” WEB SITE
(The ATTITUDES of Jesus that produce the CHARACTER of Jesus)

CLICK ON THE LINK to view:
http://fruitsofthebeatitudes.org/

FACEBOOK PAGE:
https://www.facebook.com/FruitsOfTheBeatitudes/

[ Mark Besh ]

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[ P.S.: If you would like to investigate further whether the Bible is mythical, historical, merely human, or divinely inspired, visit the following link:
http://www.4vis.com/sfm/sfm_pres/sp_q4_d1_1of10.html ].

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ARTICLES:

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“The Notebook”
[ The Love Letter ]

“My Dearest Allie. I couldn’t sleep last night because I know that it’s over between us. I’m not bitter anymore, because I know that what we had was real. And if in some distant place in the future we see each other in our new lives, I’ll smile at you with joy and remember how we spent a summer beneath the trees, learning from each other and growing in love. The best love is the kind that awakens the soul and makes us reach for more, that plants a fire in our hearts and brings peace to our minds. And that’s what you’ve given me. That’s what I’d hoped to give to you forever. I love you. I’ll be seeing you. Noah.”

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“The Notebook” (The Movie)
[ The Love Letter ]

Allie reads a letter from Noah after they fight about her being engaged to another man.

Movie Snippet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LK_gkFXhOJI

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“The Notebook” (The Movie)
[ Final meeting ]

Behind every great love is a great story. As teenagers, Allie (Rachel McAdams) and Noah (Ryan Gosling) begin a whirlwind courtship that soon blossoms into tender intimacy. The young couple is quickly separated by Allie’s upper-class parents who insist that Noah isn’t right for her. Several years pass, and when they meet again, their passion is rekindled, forcing Allie to choose between her soulmate and class order. This beautiful tale has a particularly special meaning to an older gentleman (James Garner) who regularly reads the timeless love story to his aging companion (Gena Rowlands). Based on the best-selling novel by Nicholas Sparks, The Notebook is at once heartwarming and heartbreaking and will capture you in its sweeping and emotional force.

Movie Snippet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LK_gkFXhOJI

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“Allie Remembers – The Notebook”

Allie realizes that she knows the ending to the story a man has been telling her in the nursing home.

Movie Snippet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xa2JqbXlJdk

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“The Untold Truth Of The Notebook” (The Movie)

The Notebook, penned by the prolific writer Nicholas Sparks, took the world by storm — first, when it was released as in 1996, and then later in 2004 with the film release. The touching story, aided by the onscreen chemistry of then real-life lovebirds Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling, became one of our favorite fairytale romances, our breakup-go-to, and our excuse for a good cry. But what don’t we know about the story? Here is the untold truth of The Notebook.

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_FcG0PN2q0

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“12 Hand-Written Love Letters From Famous People, From Henry VIII To Michael Jordan”

Remember the days before people needed a Hallmark card to say “I love you?” Yeah, we don’t either. As an antidote to what commercialization has rendered the least romantic day of the year we’ve decided to post the most romantic thing we can think of: a selection of hand-written love letters.

All the missives above come from Letters of Note, editor Shaun Usher‘s excellent blog of “fascinating letters, postcards, telegrams, faxes, and memos.” We raided Usher’s archives to find all sorts of mushy talk straight from the pen of historically significant people, from teen-aged Michael Jordan’s hangdog apology to his high-school girlfriend to King Henry VIII’s tenacious pursuit of Anne Boleyn (while he was still married to Catherine of Aragon) to Marlon Brando’s predictably creepy romantic overtures to a stewardess.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

[ Suzanne LaBarre ]

Pics of the actual letters: https://www.fastcompany.com/1669022/12-hand-written-love-letters-from-famous-people-from-henry-viii-to-michael-jordan

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“The Love Letter” (Movie)

A 20th century computer games designer Scott exchanges love letters with 19th century poet Elizabeth Whitcomb through an antique desk that can make letters travel through time.

Storyline:
Scotty Corrigan buys an antique desk and finds a Civil War-era letter inside it, written by a woman who died over a hundred years ago. Fancifully, he writes and mails a reply…only to have it reach its destination in the past. As Elizabeth and Scotty continue their remarkable correspondence, they find themselves falling in love, and more than restless about their impending, respective, marriages.

DVD: https://www.amazon.com/Love-Letter-Campbell-Scott/dp/B00004WI57/

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“A Love Letter From God To You”

My Child,

You may not know me, but I know everything about you. (Psalm 139:1)

I know when you sit down and when you rise up. (Psalm 139:2)

I am familiar with all your ways. (Psalm 139:3)

Even the very hairs on your head are numbered. (Matthew 10:29-31)

For you were made in my image. (Genesis 1:27)

In me you live and move and have your being. (Acts 17:28)

For you are my offspring. (Acts 17:28)

I knew you even before you were conceived. (Jeremiah 1:4-5)

I chose you when I planned creation. (Ephesians 1:11-12)

You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book. (Psalm 139:15-16)

I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live. (Acts 17:26)

You are fearfully and wonderfully made. (Psalm 139:14)

I knit you together in your mother’s womb. (Psalm 139:13)

And brought you forth on the day you were born. (Psalm 71:6)

I have been misrepresented by those who don’t know me. (John 8:41-44)

I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love. (1 John 4:16)

And it is my desire to lavish my love on you. (1 John 3:1)

Simply because you are my child and I am your Father. (1 John 3:1)

I offer you more than your earthly father ever could. (Matthew 7:11)

For I am the perfect father. (Matthew 5:48)

Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand. (James 1:17)

For I am your provider and I meet all your needs. (Matthew 6:31-33)

My plan for your future has always been filled with hope. (Jeremiah 29:11)

Because I love you with an everlasting love. (Jeremiah 31:3)

My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore. (Psalm 139:17-18)

And I rejoice over you with singing. (Zephaniah 3:17)

I will never stop doing good to you. (Jeremiah 32:40)

For you are my treasured possession. (Exodus 19:5)

I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul. (Jeremiah 32:41)

And I want to show you great and marvelous things. (Jeremiah 33:3)

If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me. (Deuteronomy 4:29)

Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart. (Psalm 37:4)

For it is I who gave you those desires. (Philippians 2:13)

I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine. (Ephesians 3:20)

For I am your greatest encourager. (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17)

I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)

When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you. (Psalm 34:18)

As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close to my heart. (Isaiah 40:11)

One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes. (Revelation 21:3-4)

And I’ll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth. (Revelation 21:3-4)

I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus. (John 17:23)

For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed. (John 17:26)

He is the exact representation of my being. (Hebrews 1:3)

He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you. (Romans 8:31)

And to tell you that I am not counting your sins. (2 Corinthians 5:18-19)

Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled. (2 Corinthians 5:18-19)

His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you. (1 John 4:10)

I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love. (Romans 8:31-32)

If you receive the gift of my son Jesus, you receive me. (1 John 2:23)

And nothing will ever separate you from my love again. (Romans 8:38-39)

Come home and I’ll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen. (Luke 15:7)

I have always been Father, and will always be Father. (Ephesians 3:14-15)

My question is … Will you be my child? (John 1:12-13)

I am waiting for you. (Luke 15:11-32)

Love, Your Dad.
Almighty God

[ Father Heart Communications ]

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=AOMQ4CXmRDo

More Info: https://www.fathersloveletter.com/

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“Love Letter from God”

This Biblical truth isn’t just found in one book. The whole of scripture speaks to how our Father God ultimately loves us. The danger is that we see the Bible as mere references of names and number only to be filed through as citing for a research paper. That is not what God’s Scripture is. It’s a love letter from our heavenly father to his children. So the question becomes, will you listen?

[ 2|42 Community Church ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8hdSchn-a0

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“Love Letter”

Sermon Series exploring the practical daily applications of God’s Love Letter, the Bible. Week 1, “Living Word”, with Mark Chester

[ Four Square Gettysburg Church ]

Sermon Series Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HFxDGz5Gl_8&list=PLtIllxlcs47m6Z_EnKNnzP21tcQu6WiY9

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“The Bible is God’s ‘Love Letter’ to Us”

DEAR DR. GRAHAM: I know I ought to read my Bible, but every time I try to read it, I just end up getting confused. I never was a very good student, and all those strange names and places in the Old Testament get me lost. Is the Bible really that important? What am I doing wrong? — Mrs. L.Y.

DEAR MRS. L.Y.: I notice you are married; did you ever get a letter from your husband-to-be and decide you wouldn’t bother reading it because his handwriting was poor, or you were too busy or for some other reason? I doubt it.

And yet that’s what many of us do with the Bible. The Bible is God’s “love letter” to us, telling us not only that He loves us, but showing us what He has done to demonstrate His love. It also tells us how we should live, because God knows what is best for us and He wants us to experience it. Never forget: The Bible is God’s Word, given to us so we can know and follow Him. “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16).

Let me suggest first of all that you begin with one of the Gospels. Christ is the center of the Bible, and the Gospels tell us about His life and teachings. In other words, don’t start at the beginning of the Bible but at its center — with Jesus Christ.

Then get a Bible you can understand; your pastor or Christian bookstore can suggest a reliable modern translation. Don’t skip around, but read straight through each book so you get the main points. In addition, pray as you read, and ask God to help you understand what He wants to say to you through that passage. Don’t give up, but let God use His Word to change you every day.

[ Billy Graham ]

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“Song of Solomon: Love, Marriage, & Sex”

The Bible’s Most Misunderstood Book – And Its Most Sensual

Introduction: Song of Solomon (or Song of Songs) is the Bible’s Pre-Marital Counseling Course. I wish I had realized this much earlier in my ministry, because I would have based pre-marital counseling around it. It is shockingly graphic. Solomon veiled his sensuality in figurative language, and earlier generations simply used it as an analogy for Christ’s love for His bride, the church. But Song of Songs is the Bible’s definitive book on love, sex, and marriage, and it is filled with sexually colorful images. I would use the word “erotic” but that term has negative connotations. I would use the word “steamy,” but that doesn’t sound right either. Yet Song of Songs is highly sensual in a sanctified and God-blessed way. Since God invented love, sex, and marriage, He intends His people to enjoy the blessings He invented; and Song of Songs leaves no doubt about that. No generation has more needed a Song-of-Solomon view of love and sex and marriage.

Background: Solomon wrote 1005 songs (1 Kings 4:32), but this is the best—the song of songs. Three speakers assume roles in this epic poem, as if in a play: Solomon; the bride; and their friends. It helps to have a modern Bible that identifies the speakers. The story involves Solomon, who owned vineyards in the Galilee (8:11), and a peasant girl from Shulam (6:13), who was working among the vines and was bullied by her brothers (1:6). When Solomon came into the area to check on his flocks (1:7) he saw the girl in the vines and it was love at first sight.

The Couple Falls in Love: 1:1 – 2:7
The book opens with the Shulammite longing to be kissed by the handsome king (1:2); and he is smitten with her, declaring her is as beautiful as one of Pharaoh’s mares, which, in those days, was high praise (1:9). But they are cautioned not to become physically intimate until the time is right, that is, until they are married (2:7).

The Couple is Engaged: 2:8 – 3:5
With great anticipation, the Shulammite looks forward to the next visit from Solomon and can hardly believe it when he shows up (2:8). He says, “Come with me… Arise, my darling, my beautiful one, come with me” (2:10, 13). She accepts his proposal, exclaiming, “My beloved is mine and I am his” (2:16). She can hardly wait for her wedding day and she badly misses her beloved when he is not near her (3:1-4); but again, the couple is cautioned against yielding to the temptation of premarital sex (3:5).

The Royal Wedding: 3:6-10
The day final dawns when Solomon comes for her in a carriage escorted by 60 warriors (3:7). It is “the day of his wedding, the day his heart rejoiced” (3:10).

The Honeymoon: 4:1 – 5:1
This is where the book gets steamy (in a sanctified sense). The groom describes his wife’s body in exquisite detail (4:1-7), and he calls her his “bride” five times (4:9-15). The bride invites her groom to “come into his garden and taste its choice fruits.” He does. He tells us, “I have come into my garden, my bride; I have gathered my myrrh with my spice. I have eaten my honeycomb and my honey; I have drunk my wine and my milk” (5:1). Their friends encourage them to drink they fill of love (5:1). Notice how explicit the Scriptures are, and yet how discreet. Throughout this honeymoon passage, the language is very graphic yet veiled in figurative terms that appropriately covey the beauty of the intimacy of marriage without being at all vulgar or course.

The Falling Out: 5:2 – 6:3
After the honeymoon, the couple has a falling out. One night, Solomon wants to make merry with his wife, but she is too tired (5:2-3). He storms out, apparently headed to the royal harem. The bride chases after him but can’t find him, and, to make matters worse, she is mugged in the nocturnal streets of Jerusalem (5:6-7). That doesn’t deter her, and she gives a rather explicit physical description of his body to her friends, asking them to watch for him (6:10-16). She fears her husband has “gone down to his garden, to the beds of spices, to browse in the gardens and gather lilies,” and yet she knows their marriage must be kept sexually exclusive (6:3).

They Make Up—and How! 6:4 – 8:4
The husband quickly realizes his mistake he returns to her, confessing she is “my dove, my perfect one… unique.” The friends beg the Shulammite to return to him (6:13), and the husband launches into another graphic description of her body, lingering on every part of her form, from her feet to her hair (7:1-5). He longs to enjoy her pleasures again (7:8-9). She reciprocates his feelings (7:9-10), and they go on a second honeymoon to the countryside villages (7:11) where they resume their passionate partnership (8:1-3). Their love is so stirring that they end with another warning to readers about yielding to the temptation of premarital sex (8:4).

Conclusion: 8:5 – 14
The final paragraphs of the book summarize the sweep of their relationship from the opening meeting to the concluding lesson. The couple met in Solomon’s vineyard in Baal Hamon, and the overriding teaching of the book is summed up in verse 7, the key verse of Song of Songs: “Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away.” Song of Solomon pictures God’s ideal for marriage—an exclusive marital relationship of deep friendship; emotional bonding; physical pleasure; and enduring permanence. Misunderstandings and conflicts may occur, but when a couple is committed to God’s perfect plan for marriage and life, nothing can quench the love God gives them, one for the other. In a good marriage, a couple is always wanting to get away to enjoy each other’s intimacy, saying, as we read in the last verse of the book: “Come away, my beloved, and be like a gazelle or like a young stag on the spice-laden mountains” (8:14).

PS – Earlier generations viewed this book primarily as an analogy for Yahweh’s love for His bride, Israel; or Christ’s love for HIs bride, the Church. There are certainly lessons there, but the primary purpose of Song of Songs is to covey the pleasure God intends to bestow through His invention of love, marriage, and sex.

[ Robert J. Morgan ]

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“What’s Really In The Bible – Dr. Larry Crabb”

Moira Brown speaks with Dr. Larry Crabb about truly grasping what’s in the Bible

Interview 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=El4U_yi0i8Y
Interview 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5rw355WX14s
Interview 3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wGNw6ddqa8c

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Jim Cantelon speaks with Dr. Larry Crabb about his book “66 Love Letters: A Conversation With God That Invites You Into His Story”. Dr. Crabb suggests that we need to look at the Bible as a love letter from God

Interview Playlist (1-16): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agX7Px6tXbE&list=PLCERrRIga6nF2M1iApuyI3yDAm8XCIy_A

17/20: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cCDTnVIrjnY
18/20: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xaTVnr6s4bw
19/20: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LEldflok8yM
20/20: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aBTHU1wdELU

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“How Do You Prove That the Bible Is True?”

in a world where everything is true and acceptable how do you prove that the Bible is really true and that other forms of Bibles are not well that’s of course the most foundational question of all because everything rises and falls on whether the scripture is the Word of God so there are lots of lines of evidence which you would use to prove the veracity of Scripture I would say one of them would be the person of Jesus Christ the the presentation of Christ in the Bible is beyond human invention you remember that they said of Jesus no man ever spoke like this miss book his words are just beyond all human philosophy how do you explain Christ so no one would have made him up no it couldn’t have made him up how do you explain his resurrection with 500 eye witnesses who didn’t expect him to rise from the dead how do you expect apostles who thought he was dead and were running to hide all of a sudden becoming world-changing zealot evangelist the only explanation is the resurrection of Jesus Christ the birth of the church comes out of that so how do you explain the Old Testament giving three hundred and fifty prophecies of Jesus Christ half of them coming true historically and recorded so in the New Testament the other half are going to come true at a second coming this is a very very powerful apologetic for scripture another one you would use a science when people are saying the world is flat the Bible says that the earth is a sphere when people were saying that the the world was floating in space the Bible says it turns on an axis like clay to the seal it rotates on its own axis the Bible says the stars can’t be numbered in a day when scientists had counted a thousand and 23 of them and now we know they can’t be numbered there are scientific things you look at archaeology you compare the history of the of the scripture with what archaeology has discovered you’ll find precise conformity to those facts and one other one and I would say it’s the defensive experience the Word of God does what it says it will do it transforms lives.

[ John MacArthur ]

Q&A: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DrPN4miqBLo

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“HOLY HABITS ARE LIFE-CHANGING—Get Started Daily in The Book You Can Trust – Start Some Holy Habits”””

[ John Barnett ]

Sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wsofUbHQYg&list=PLte7xqbh2FWTi2V1tVIV5qLW4ohIrk-Bg&index=12&t=0s

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“WHY CAN YOU TRUST EVERY WORD OF THE BIBLE? Because It’s The Book Jesus Trusted”

[ John Barnett ]

Sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WMeIxNEqC1Y&list=PLte7xqbh2FWTi2V1tVIV5qLW4ohIrk-Bg&index=17&t=0s

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“The Book You Can Trust”

[ John Barnett ]

Sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5vez3vNcuM

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“Book You Can Trust”

[ John Barnett ]

Sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VfttYctX5h4

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“Why We Believe the Bible Is True”

Now whenever I have the opportunity to preach on the doctrine of the Word of God, there is a great danger that this could go on for a long time and that you may feel like you’re drinking out of a fire hose at full volume, because this is my passion, as you know, the Word of God. I love the truth, I live for the truth, I proclaim the truth. Nothing is as important as the truth of God revealed in Scripture. And so, as we began last Sunday night talking about this issue of Scripture, we shall continue for many Sunday nights to come…not sure exactly how many…to talk about the great doctrine of Scripture.

[ John MacArthur ]

Sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=2&v=kgfomboPfh4

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“The God Who Speaks”

Tonight we begin a new series of study, and we’re just barely going to get our appetite whetted as we have a little less time than we normally do tonight. The Lord really kind of laid on my heart about two years ago the importance of a study on: Is the Bible believable.

Here at Grace Church, we make a great deal about the word of God, and we have some very strong convictions about it. And certainly, we ought to be able to support those convictions. We ought to know why we believe the bible. We ought to know the evidence that the bible is valid; that it is true. We ought to know it well enough to be able to communicate it to others.

Certainly, we ought to know it well enough to have confidence in it. And since we spend all of our time here studying the bible, preaching the bible, teaching the bible, learning the bible, and living by the principles of the bible, we should be able to face some very important facts about the bible with a positive confidence.

You say, “Well, what do you believe about the Bible?” Now, we believe that the bible is the only book ever written by God, and it was written to reveal Himself. We believe the bible is the only authoritative and absolutely reliable source of revelation from God with regard to the origin of man; as well as his dilemma, his salvation, and his destiny.

We believe that the bible is the single measuring standard, the only moral and spiritual standard for man. We believe the Bible is true in every detail, even to the very words in the original manuscripts, and we believe the bible is believable. We believe God wrote it – every word. That’s what we believe. [more…]

[ John MacArthur ]

Article: https://www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/1340/the-god-who-speaks

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“God Has Spoken”

Now, in our study we are looking at the subject of revelation – not the book of Revelation, but the subject of Christianity as a revealed religion. I feel that it is very important for us to establish the credibility and the believability of the bible. Since we believe and acknowledge that it is the source of all knowledge about God, since we study it so in detail and adhere to its principles, we need to be sure that what it says is true.

Sooner or later, Satan is going to bring into our lives doubts that are going to make us suspect whether or not the things that we have set our life on are really valid, and the more evidence we have, the better off we’re going to be in times like that.

There is no knowledge of God from reason alone. Paul says that the mind of the natural man cannot comprehend God. There is no knowledge of God from experience. There is no knowledge of God from the world systems of religion. There is no knowledge of God from philosophy. Every once in a while, it is true that those various things like reason, and experience, and religion and philosophy will intersect with truth. So, I’ve said that’s like that clock that doesn’t run; it happens to be right twice a day. So, there will be an intersection with truth from time to time. But, true knowledge of God comes only from the revelation of God.

God must disclose Himself to man. We believe that the bible is that disclosure, that this book in its entirety – 66 total books; 39 in the Old Testament and 27 in the New, and that’s easy to remember because 3 times 9 is 27; that’s how I remember it; a little Sunday School thing I learned; that’ll help you – but that in its entirety it is the revelation of God. [more…]

[ John MacArthur ]

Article: https://www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/1341/god-has-spoken

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“God Has Spoken–But Why?”

As we look again at our subject of “is the Bible believable,” tonight we are continuing to talk about the subject of revelation, and by that I don’t mean the book of Revelation; I mean the subject of revelation.

Basic to Christianity is the fact that the Bible is revealed book, that this Book was not written by men. It may have been put down on paper or whatever was used by men, but it was written and authored by God. This is our commitment, this is our confidence, this our belief, this our assurance. And so basic, I believe, to the Christian is the fact of the inspiration and authority of the Scripture; that it is God’s own revelation to men. The truths regarding God and Christ and the Holy Spirit and man and sin and all of the facets of information revealed in the Scriptures are the disclosure of God. They are the revelation of God.

Now, if we do not believe that this is the revelation of God – or if we question that it is – we have no foundation for our faith. Unhesitatingly week in, week out, Sunday after Sunday, and then all through the week we teach the word and the teach the word and teach the word and study it and share it and discuss it and minister it. And we must beginningly at the bottom of all that have absolute confidence in its authority and its inerrancy.

But more than ever before, the truths of the word of God have been questioned in recent years. The dogma of the authority and inspiration of Scripture is being questioned; it is being challenged. Seminaries challenge the inspiration and authority of Scripture. Pulpits and pulpiteers are set up to fight against the concept of biblical inspiration and authority, and it’s an amazing thing, but we shouldn’t be surprised because if you went all the way back to the very beginning, you would find that the very first attack on the part of Satan was aimed at discrediting the revelation of the God. In Genesis chapter 3, in verse 1, Satan said to Eve, “Hath God said?” The first – the first attack of the tempter was to question the word of God. Nothing different; it’s still going on. [more…]

[ John MacArthur ]

Article: https://www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/1342/god-has-spokenbut-why

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“Our God-Breathed Bible”

Tonight, we are going to deal with the subject of inspiration. To begin with, I want to just tell you something that happened to us in the last couple of weeks that came to my attention that I think is a good jumping off point for our study.

A very well known song writer by the name of Bill Gaither, who has written many songs – not to be confused with Bill Gothard who doesn’t write songs – but Bill Gaither is involved in writing many, many, many songs and a very popular song writer. Recently, someone asked Bill Gaither to explain his interpretation of his song The King is Coming. Most of you have heard it.

Now, the person who asked this received a letter, and this is what the letter said. “Regarding the interpretation of the song The King is Coming, of all songs that song has been a gift from God. Bill and Gloria” – that is Mr. and Mrs. Gaither – “do not profess to be theologians. The song came quickly to them, and they do not care to discuss the theology of it. In fact, they feel that to dissect the song would be tampering with the inspiration of the Holy Spirit who inspired the song.”

Now, that is a very startling claim for a song; that a song is inspired by the Holy Spirit. Now, what does it mean when we say something is inspired? Granted, the theology of the song The King is Coming is confusing; you’ve got the events of the rapture and the Second Coming all happening at the same time. But, it’s a nice song and well all kind of enjoy it, and the rest of the letter went on to say the important thing is that He’s coming. And that is important. [more”’]

[ John MacArthur ]

Article: https://www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/1343/our-godbreathed-bible

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“Our God-Breathed Bible”

As you know, we’re studying 2 Timothy, and I would like to draw you back to 2 Timothy chapter 3, as at least a starting point for our message this morning. What I want to share with you this morning is really just a departure from this text, but based on that which this text affirms.
You remember last Lord’s Day, we looked at verses 16 and 17, which says, “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness that the man of God may be adequate, fully equipped for every good work. All Scripture is inspired by God.”

[ John MacArthur ]

Sermon: https://www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/55-17/our-godbreathed-bible

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“The Bible Is God’s Word”

Obviously, this ministry is totally dependent upon the word of the living God, the Scripture, the Bible. We are committed to the Word of God as absolutely true, and we are committed to every phrase, and every verse, and every chapter, and every book as having come from God Himself. The only way we can know God and His will is to have it given to us in a way that is unmistakable, and God has chosen to do that in a book, the Bible. The other night I had the opportunity again to be on CNN, and to be in another one of those discussions with people who did not agree with me. It seems to be my lot in life, and they are usually exceedingly disagreeable. And whenever I am in that kind of environment with unbelievers, other religious leaders, people with other moral viewpoints, I really only have two things to say, and whatever the conversation is in one way is immaterial to me.

[ John MacArthur ]

Sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yaAzwS_wHA

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“Making a Case for the Bible”

The Bible is under attack.

We live in an age when the very idea of clear, objective, knowable truth is being assaulted—even from within the visible church. A growing number of pastors claim it’s impossible to know exactly what Scripture means by what it says. They say the Bible is simply not clear—rather, it’s filled with mystery and ambiguity.

Does that mean every doctrine you and I find precious is subject to new interpretation, doubt, and even wholesale rejection? Is the Bible really infallible and inerrant? Can we really know what God’s Word means?

In Making a Case for the Bible, John MacArthur shows you that God’s truth hasn’t changed. It isn’t mysterious or veiled—He revealed it with sufficient clarity. This study will help you know why you believe what you believe, and instill in you a deeper confidence in the truth of God as revealed in His Word.

[ John MacArthur ]

Topical Series: https://www.gty.org/library/topical-series-library/298/making-a-case-for-the-bible

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“You Can Trust the Bible”

We live in a world that, for the most part, has no absolute standard for life and behavior. We are under a system of morality by majority vote—in other words, whatever feels right sets the standard for behavior.

That philosophy, however, runs contrary to everything we know about our world. For example, in science there are absolutes. Our entire universe is built on fixed laws. We can send satellites and other spacecraft into space and accurately predict their behavior. Science—whether biology, botany, physiology, astronomy, mathematics, or engineering—is controlled by unalterable and inviolable laws.

Yet in the moral world many people want to live without laws or absolutes. They try to determine their points of reference from their own minds. However, that is impossible. When we move from the physical to the spiritual realm, fixed laws still exist. We cannot exist without laws in the moral and spiritual dimensions of life any more than we can do so in the physical dimension. Our Creator built morality into life. Just as there are physical laws, so there are spiritual laws. Let me give you an example. [more…]

[ John MacArthur ]

Article: https://www.gty.org/library/articles/45TRUST/you-can-trust-the-bible

Sermon: https://www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/80-51/you-can-trust-the-bible

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“Is the Bible Reliable?”

Many see the Bible as irrelevant. They may commend it as literature or denounce it as folklore, but it’s merely one old text among many.

This detail-rich series presents the powerful authority of Scripture. John MacArthur delves into the Bible’s composition—its inspiration and inerrancy—and how science, history, and archaeology back its claim to be the Word of God. Gain confident answers to the question Is the Bible Reliable? and see why you can put complete trust in it.

Topical Series: https://www.gty.org/library/topical-series-library/65/is-the-bible-reliable

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“Why We Believe the Bible Is True”

Now whenever I have the opportunity to preach on the doctrine of the Word of God, there is a great danger that this could go on for a long time and that you may feel like you’re drinking out of a fire hose at full volume, because this is my passion, as you know, the Word of God. I love the truth, I live for the truth, I proclaim the truth. Nothing is as important as the truth of God revealed in Scripture. And so, as we began last Sunday night talking about this issue of Scripture, we shall continue for many Sunday nights to come…not sure exactly how many…to talk about the great doctrine of Scripture.

[ John MacArthur ]

Sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kgfomboPfh4

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“Making a Case for the Bible”

The Bible is under attack.

We live in an age when the very idea of clear, objective, knowable truth is being assaulted—even from within the visible church. A growing number of pastors claim it’s impossible to know exactly what Scripture means by what it says. They say the Bible is simply not clear—rather, it’s filled with mystery and ambiguity.

Does that mean every doctrine you and I find precious is subject to new interpretation, doubt, and even wholesale rejection? Is the Bible really infallible and inerrant? Can we really know what God’s Word means?

In Making a Case for the Bible, John MacArthur shows you that God’s truth hasn’t changed. It isn’t mysterious or veiled—He revealed it with sufficient clarity. This study will help you know why you believe what you believe, and instill in you a deeper confidence in the truth of God as revealed in His Word.

[ John MacArthur ]

Topical Series: https://www.gty.org/library/topical-series-library/298/making-a-case-for-the-bible

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“The Bible Is Rational Truth”

The Bible isn’t some mystical transmitter of truth. It’s not a coded message with numerological keys. Nor does its text require ethereal insight to unlock its meaning. God has kindly chosen to communicate with man by engaging the mental faculties He has blessed us with—through the clear, objective, and rational expression of His revealed Word.

The objective revelation of God in Scripture is meant to be understood by normal reasoning. It is logical and noncontradictory. There are no errors, lies, or unsound principles. There are, in reality, no logical contradictions, though to us there may appear to be inconsistencies or paradoxes due to our human limitations. But ultimately, there are no contradictions in Scripture, no fantasies, no absurdities, no inconsistencies, and no myths.

The Word of God contains the actual history of real people told in normal language. And Scripture is to be understood in the same way we would seek to understand anything—by the process of reason. We use reason to solve a math problem, read an engineering schematic, or diagnose an illness. In the same way, Scripture is understood according to the normal patterns of human reason. It is understood by the mind, not by mystical intuition or epiphany.

That doesn’t mean that there is no spiritual component to understanding the Bible. As Paul says in 1 Corinthians 2:14, “But a natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually appraised.” The natural man is unregenerate, and his mind is still darkened by enslavement to sin. It’s the illuminating work of the Holy Spirit that brings saving faith and repentance. So while a true understanding of Scripture in all its fullness is limited to believers, the believer still comes to that true understanding through the normal paths of reasoning. In the same way, the unregenerate person is responsible for not believing in God because he has been given evidence of God’s existence that accords with his normal reasoning powers (Romans 1:18–20). Man is subject to God’s wrath because he does not follow the normal path of reason and conscience to recognize God as his Creator, Lawgiver, and Judge. In spite of what the world claims, it is far more reasonable and rational to believe in creation than evolution. Man is culpable before God because he doesn’t follow the path of God-given reason to the most obvious reality in the universe—God.

The rationality of Scripture also has implications for believers: We are meant to understand God’s Word through reason. In Nehemiah 8, Ezra stood up and read the Scripture in front of the people for half the day, explaining to them its meaning. In chapter 7, we learn that Ezra read the Scriptures, studied them, lived them, and then preached them (Ezra 7:10). He came to understand Scripture’s meaning before explaining it to the people. This is an important point, because so many Christians believe that the true meaning of Scripture falls on an individual through some intuition or experience. They’re looking to unlock the rational truth of God’s Word through irrational means.

This is another area in which the church cannot afford to mimic or follow the lead of this perishing world. J. P. Moreland describes in vivid terms the dangers a culture faces when it has surrendered reason and critical thinking: “We are staring down the barrel of a loaded gun, and we can no longer afford to act like it’s loaded with blanks.” [1] He continues:

Our society has replaced heroes with celebrities, the quest for a well-informed character with the search for a flat stomach, substance and depth with image and personality. In the political process, the makeup man is more important than the speech writer, and we approach the voting booth, not on the basis of a well-developed philosophy of what the state should be, but with a heart full of images, emotions, and slogans all packed into thirty-second sound bites. The mind-numbing, irrational tripe that fills TV talk shows is digested by millions of bored, lonely Americans hungry for that sort of stuff. [2]
What Moreland is describing is the massive tidal wave of anti-intellectualism that has overwhelmed much of society today. Tragically, it has flooded into the church, too. Today, many professing believers have no interest in the carefully reasoned study of God’s Word, preferring to seek illumination and instruction through alternate means. Some adopt the rituals of pagan religions, while others simply wait to hear the audible voice of the Lord or receive intuitive mental impressions from the Spirit to interpret the Bible.

That mystical approach to God and His truth is inherently irrational. In fact, the pursuit of private, subjective interpretation effectively denies both the objectivity and rationality of God’s truth. It also denies the sufficiency of His inspired Word, presuming that there is more we need to know than what God has placed in Scripture. In the end, this anti-intellectual search for truth often leads to the kind of chaos we see dominating the charismatic movement. For others, it leads to disappointment, despair, and apostasy.

God had a purpose when He gave us the capacity for rational thought. If we want to know Him and understand what He has revealed in His Word, we must approach Scripture rationally, following the normal processes of logic and reason with sound hermeneutics to come to a true understanding of its meaning. The rationality of Scripture is actually a great blessing. It means that instead of a multitude of elusive, scattered, subjective interpretations, there is a fixed, consistent meaning to God’s Word for everyone to know with settled confidence.

[ John MacArthur ]

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“The Bible Is Authoritative Truth”

When it comes to views of Scripture we live in a skeptical age. While there have always been those who questioned the authority and authenticity of God’s Word, the church itself was not home to doubters and skeptics. The staunch anti-authority trend we see among professing believers today began in the eighteenth century and the post-Reformation Enlightenment—during the ascendancy of human reason—when skeptics and critics brought the legitimacy of God’s Word under widespread attack. Today, we’re dealing with the devastating destruction that has accumulated in just a few centuries due to viewing the Bible as something less than the inerrant, authoritative Word of God.

The authority and inerrancy of Scripture are fundamental doctrines, yet we have an entire generation of professing Christians who are neither committed to those dogmas nor able to fight to defend them. Most could not articulate a case for biblical authority or defend why every word of God is true—whether internally from the text of Scripture, or externally from the validations of fulfilled prophecy and reason. Many cannot give a clear defense of why it is necessary to have an inerrant, authoritative Scripture in order for the Holy Spirit to do His work of saving and sanctifying. Though these are foundational realities, too many Christians seem indifferent to these essentials.

Congregations sit listening to sermons from pastors who have been conditioned to elevate methodology, cultural cues, and entertainment in order to attract a crowd rather than to serve an assembly of true worshipers who are able to understand, articulate, and defend the truth of God revealed in Scripture. While a focus on methodology does not necessarily deny the authority of Scripture, there is a de facto denial of Scripture’s supremacy when it is set aside for other means and methods. The Bible is regularly treated superficially and routinely taken out of context, resulting in a generation that has no expectation that the preacher would handle the Word of God accurately. Rather, people are trained to treat the Bible like a book that they are free to manipulate for their own ends, which ultimately both exposes and perpetuates their low view of Scripture.

But the Bible isn’t a book full of ideas, opinions, and principles awaiting our consideration. Everything God’s Word says carries authority because of Who authored it. That is why all believers must embrace and submit to the authority of Scripture. God’s Word is the final authority in His church—no pastor or pope sits in judgment of it. Peter refers to Scripture as the “utterances of God” (1 Peter 4:11), meaning it is the very words from the mouth of God. Paul says that believers “have the mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:16). That isn’t some kind of gnostic higher knowledge, attained through mystical or subjective means. It means the mind of Christ is displayed for us in the pages of God’s Word. If anyone wants to know what the Lord thinks about anything, he simply needs to open the Bible. All the insight we need has been delivered to us in the authoritative Word of God. As Charles Spurgeon rightly explained, there is no other reliable source of truth to which we can cling.

“Thus saith the Lord” is the only authority in God’s Church. When the tabernacle was pitched in the wilderness, what was the authority for its length and breadth? Why was the altar of incense to be placed here, and the brazen laver there? Why so many lambs or bullocks to be offered on a certain day? Why must the passover be roasted whole and not sodden? Simply and only because God had shown all these things to Moses in the holy mount; and thus had Jehovah spoken, “Look that thou make them after their pattern, which was showed thee in the mount.” It is even so in the Church at the present day; true servants of God demand to see for all Church ordinances and doctrines the express authority of the Church’s only Teacher and Lord. They remember that the Lord Jesus bade the apostles to teach believers to observe all things whatsoever he had commanded them, but he neither gave to them nor to any men power to alter his own commands. The Holy Ghost revealed much of precious truth and holy precept by the apostles, and to his teaching we would give earnest heed; but when men cite the authority of fathers, and councils, and bishops, we give place for subjection, no, not for an hour. They may quote Irenaeus or Cyprian, Augustine or Chrysostom; they may remind us of the dogmas of Luther or Calvin; they may find authority in Simeon, or Wesley, or Gill—we will listen to the opinions of these great men with the respect which they deserve as men, but having so done, we deny that we have anything to do with these men as authorities in the Church of God, for there nothing has any authority, but “Thus saith the Lord of hosts.” Yea, if you shall bring us the concurrent consent of all tradition—if you shall quote precedents venerable with fifteen, sixteen, or seventeen centuries of antiquity, we burn the whole as so much worthless lumber, unless you put your finger upon the passage of Holy Writ which warrants the matter to be of God. You may further plead, in addition to all this venerable authority, the beauty of the ceremony and its usefulness to those who partake therein, but this is all foreign to the point, for to the true Church of God the only question is this, is there a “Thus saith the Lord” for it? And if divine authority be not forthcoming, faithful men thrust forth the intruder as the cunning craftiness of men. [1]
The only one
who has the right to speak to His people with authority is God. The Father called sinners out of the darkness of sin and fitted them for the work of His kingdom. Christ purchased the church with His own blood. He is the head of the church, and the head of the church mediates His authority through His Word. And through the Word, the Holy Spirit does His work of sanctification in every believer’s life. God’s people need to faithfully submit to the final authority of His written Word.

[ John MacArthur ]

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“The Bible Is Timeless Truth”

God does not intend for His Word to be subdivided, excerpted, and wrenched out of context. The Bible speaks with consistent authority and perpetual relevance in all matters. It does not require correction, innovation, or editorial oversight.

The key to the Reformation was biblical preaching, which has been the key to every revival. The church flourishes when biblical doctrine is faithfully preached from Bible texts. At such times, the truth of God’s Word is properly in focus, as the Spirit originally intended.

But there are times that are dominated by excusing the Bible’s supposed irrelevance. People say, “We believe the doctrines of the Bible, but most people just do not identify with its old language and old stories from an agrarian time period.” So they argue that the truths of Scripture must be placed in a contemporary package to better reach people. This, in essence, is to say that we have a more effective way to reach people than the Holy Spirit had in authoring the Scripture.

One current advocate of such proud hubris is Andy Stanley. The pastor of one of the largest congregations in America, he has encouraged believers to “unhitch the Christian faith” from the Old Testament.” [1] He had previously admonished pastors and teachers to never say, “The Bible says.” [2] The result is that biblical doctrine is stripped of its biblical attire and dressed in faddish contemporary fashion. Such meddling is an assault on the power and authority of the Bible. God knew how He wanted His doctrine dressed, and people do not have the liberty to rearrange it to their own preference.

Once such ideas become entrenched, doctrine degrades until it comes to flatly contradict the Bible. This accurately describes the state of many churches today, where the man-centered, therapeutic doctrine they preach flies in the face of the biblical text.

The call for us today is to return to the doctrine of the Bible as God has intended it to be presented. God has set forth His truth in His chosen biblical contexts, proportions, and relations, and in such stories, parables, analogies, and narratives. He knows what suits the soul of man, and under the work of the Spirit of God, no other forms can supersede or improve on the Word of God. It is characterized by objectivity, rationality, veracity, authority, and integrity.

If God’s people desire to fulfill their calling to be salt and light in this sinful world, they must cultivate a high view of His Word. The church must embrace and proclaim Scripture in its fullness, boldly holding it forth as God’s standard for life and godliness.

[ John MacArthur ]

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“How Should We Interpret the Bible?”

Now over the last several Sunday nights that I’ve been with you, three out of the last four, we’ve been sort of anticipating the Strange Fire Conference and taking a look at some of the very foundation issues in the Charismatic Movement. We all understand the issues of healing and the prosperity gospel, and speaking in tongues and signs and wonders and miracles and all of those kinds of things. And certainly those need to be addressed, and through the years we’ve addressed all of those things and there’s plenty of available data in the bookstore and on the website and on the Grace To You website for you to get answers from the Word of God on all those issues. But there are some foundational issues that are more concerning to me than some of those behaviors and they are really the problem. And so we posed three questions that I’ve tried to answer on these three Sunday nights. The first one is “What is the source of truth? Where do we find divine truth?” Unfortunately the Charismatic Movement is more likely to see truth rising out of their own intuition and their own supposed Christian experience than rising out of Scripture. They seem to think that God speaks to them internally and they are the recipients of divine revelation.

For details about this sermon and for related resources, click here:
https://www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/90-463

[ John MacArthur ]
Sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L2_4TWZBc54

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“Proper Biblical Interpretation”

Tonight, we have the great privilege, I think, of looking at a subject that is important to all of us. I’m not going to be dealing with the specific text, although we’ll cover a number of texts before we’re through tonight. But I want to carry on our special study of charismatic chaos, looking and evaluating the charismatic movement from the Word of God, by focusing on the issue of interpreting the Bible. One of the things that allows for the charismatic movement to continue to move ahead is that it is engaged in misinterpretation of Scripture.

[ John MacArthur ]

Sermon: https://www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/90-55/proper-biblical-interpretation

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“What principles of interpretation can help me read the Bible?”

The Bible shows us how to read its pages by interpreting numerous passages for us. From one of our Ask Ligonier events, Burk Parsons recommends some tools that can help us interpret God’s Word as God intended.

[ Burk Parsons ]

Q&A: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTjDsAJryEI

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“Four Steps of Interpreting Scripture”

1: Observation – Observe the text
2: Interpretation – What does the text say to the original audience?
3: Principlization – What is the principle for all time?
4: Application – How do I apply this text?

[ Todd Friel ]

Teaching: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Wvt8LTAdaw

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“What Tools Do I Need to Study the Bible?”

EPISODE 395 // JULY 29, 2014 // desiringgod.org/interviews/what-tools-do-i-need-to-study-the-bible

[ John Piper ]

Teaching: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KdlOVua0_ss

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“How To Read The Bible”

This sermon by Sinclair Ferguson covers the subject of reading the Bible the way God intends us to read it.

[ Sinclair Ferguson ]

Teaching: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cnpLkYGze8s

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“Basics for How to Study the Bible”

When we study the Bible, we are after God’s meaning — not our own. And the best way to discover God’s meaning is to pray and ask questions of the text.

[ David Matis ]

Teaching: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kuLz-IAAXFA

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“Six Reasons to Read the Bible Every Day”

There are millions of books in this world — why should we spend time on an ancient one? John Piper gives six reasons the Bible earns our effort more than any other book.

[ John Piper ]

Teaching: https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/six-reasons-to-read-the-bible-every-day

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“Rethinking How We Read the Bible”

In a discussion on his book, ‘Maturity: Growing Up and Going On in the Christian Life’ Dr. Sinclair B. Ferguson shows how some of us may need to rethink how we read the Bible.

[ Sinclair Ferguson ]

Q&A: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OKUfTALQ3bM

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“How Do I Make the Most of Daily Bible Reading?”

As you plan your Bible reading for 2019, know yourself, know your tendencies, but know most of all that you desperately need God’s word.

[ John Piper ]

Teaching: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=So61zHqhqZs

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“Practical Helps for Bible Reading”

Ben Stuart gives three practical helps to make room in our lives and hearts to meet God in his word. It’s the most important thing you can learn to do.

[ Ben Stuart ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_RaejuYkh-M

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“What Book Of The Bible Should I Read First?”

What book of the Bible should I read first? Have you ever wondered about this? Should you start reading in the Old Testament or the New Testament? And if you’ve been a seasoned Christian but trying to get back in, where do you start? This can be a difficult question to answer especially if you are new. This video provides some practical tips on where to start reading the Bible and how to improve the quality of your Bible study.

[ Allen Parr ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqQsks80KdM

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“Reasons You Won’t Read Through the Bible”

OK, this is reverse psychology. We think you should read the Bible. But it is hard. We go over the three top reasons that prevent people from reading the Bible and introduce a new Bible reading plan called “Read Scripture” that uses our videos and will help you get through the Bible.

[ BibleProject ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ob7nRaTS1Qs

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“Read Scripture”

Want to dive deeper? We’ve been working on something new: Scripture Labs.

[ BibleProject ]

Website: https://www.readscripture.org/

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“Average Americans Watch 140 Hours of TV a Month…it Only Takes 72 to Read It”

Have you ever thought about how much time we spend watching TV? When we say that we do not have time to read the Bible, are we aware of how much time we spend doing other mindless activities when it only takes 72 hours to read the whole Bible?

[ John Barnett ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqC2m1G61xE

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“HAVE YOU READ: The Life Changing Book?”

WHAT WERE THE SEVEN PROOFS THAT VERIFY THE SCRIPTURES?

[ John Barnett ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Za5xkGTdzu8

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“Understanding the Doctrine of Inspiration”

We come now to a wonderful opportunity to consider the great doctrine of the inspiration of the Scripture. We’re going to look at the theology category that is called bibliology, the study of the Word of God. It was some years ago that I read an interesting interview. A very popular Christian songwriter, many of whose songs we all sing and enjoy, was asked to explain how he was able to write a certain song, and this was the answer. “Regarding that song, it came quickly, and we do not care to discuss the theology of it. In fact, we feel that to dissect the song would be tampering with the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, who inspired the song,” end quote.

[ John MacArthur ]

Sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=E6OyW9aFCuU

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“Can I Trust the Bible? The Truth about the Old and New Testament Scriptures”

Many people assume that the Bible is an old book that has little significance for today and is filled with errors and contradictions. In these messages, gifted scholars and pastors show that such assumptions are wrong. The Bible is the Word of God, and therefore it is trustworthy, authoritative, and without error. What it says is of life-changing importance, and it should not be neglected by anyone.

Messages include:
“Not One Jot or Tittle” with Alistair Begg
“God’s Word to Us” with H.B. Charles
“Thy Word Is Truth” with Sinclair Ferguson
“It’s Just a Book” with W. Robert Godfrey
“The Attributes of the Canon” with Michael Kruger
“Is the Bible Just Another Book?” with Steven Lawson
“For the Authority of Scripture” with John MacArthur
“The Doctrine of Inspiration” and “The Doctrine of Inerrancy” with Stephen Nichols
“The Bible and Apologetics” Parts 1–5 with R.C. Sproul

Teachings: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vIpwdsSUs8

Booklet: https://www.ligonier.org/store/can-i-trust-the-bible-epub/

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“For the Authority of Scripture”

The veracity and authority of Scripture is basic to the Christian faith, but it is not a “given” in the modern world. Not only is it directly attacked by skeptics inside and outside of the church, it is undermined by claims of authority for other alleged “holy books” such as the Qur’an and the Book of Mormon. In our skeptical and multicultural world, it is necessary for Christians to draw a line in the sand when the authority of Scripture is challenged.

[ John MacArthur ]

Teaching: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E97P-wTAzfc

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“Why You Can Believe the Bible”

Voddie Baucham is a husband, father, pastor, author, professor, conference speaker and church planter. He serves as Pastor of Preaching at Grace Family Baptist Church in Spring, Texas.

[ Voddie Baucham ]

Teaching: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1XJ7DeR5fc

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“God’s Word to Us”

God has not left us to wonder about what He is like and what He requires from us. He has revealed Himself and His plan of salvation in Scripture. In this session, H.B. Charles Jr. focuses on the sufficiency, authority, infallibility, inerrancy, and power of God’s Word.

[ H.B. Charles, Jr. ]

Teaching: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZ9iOZEzT3I

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“Is the Bible Just Another Book?”

One of the most common claims heard today is that the Bible is merely a collection of contradictory human writings with no coherent structure. Even believers sometimes express frustration because they cannot understand how these various writings fit together. They cannot see the “big picture,” and many give up trying to understand Scripture. In this lecture Dr. Steven Lawson will remind Christians of the importance and privilege of knowing Scripture, helping them to grasp the basic content as well as its meaning and significance.

Christ has redeemed us to be a light that directs others to Him. Fulfilling this call requires us to be able to deal with the most difficult questions asked about the Christian faith. If we are unprepared for the darkness around us, it will be harder to counter it with the truth of God’s Word.

In this series of lectures from Ligonier Ministries’ 2010 National Conference, Alistair Begg, Michael Horton, Steven J. Lawson, John MacArthur, Albert Mohler, Burk Parsons, R.C. Sproul, R.C. Sproul Jr., and Derek Thomas address some of the most difficult questions that we face as Christians and endeavor to offer biblical answers to assure us and to help us defend the truths of the Christian faith. This conference also features a special mini conference on Christian communication in a hypersocial world.

[ Steven Lawson ]

Teaching: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hJSw-_zjF88

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“Are You Reading or Feeding on God’s Word?”

Newborn babies are not ambivalent about their need for milk. It’s not simply one of their dietary options or preferences. They desperately need it and can’t possibly survive without it.

The apostle Peter likened that urgent craving to the kind of hunger Christians should have for God’s Word: “Like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow” (1 Peter 2:2).

Clearly, that kind of desperate hunger and passionate longing cannot be satisfied by a cursory reading of God’s Word. Christians obviously cannot get the nourishment they need or crave by simply flopping open their Bibles and reading a few random verses.

We recently asked John MacArthur to clarify the difference between feeding on God’s Word and merely reading it. Here’s what he had to say:

Do you fervently study God’s Word because it is the only source of the spiritual sustenance you crave? Or are you simply checking a box in your daily devotional routine?

We need to go beyond Bible reading as a mechanical ritual. Approaching God’s Word with a pure heart—no longer clinging to the pet sins we once loved—opens our eyes to the profound depth and meaning of Scripture. When we come to God’s Word with purity of heart, and the ability to rightly interpret it, then we can truly meditate—feed—on the rich and deeply satisfying truths of Scripture.

[ John MacArthur ]

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C78M7MIotqA

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“Feasting on the Word of God”

Christians should earnestly desire to grow. If we aren’t becoming more like Christ, we’re defying what Scripture plainly teaches about the Christian walk: “For those whom [God] foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son” (Romans 8:29).

Christian growth involves transformation from our old way of life into a new and upward Christlike trajectory of change—increasing strength and effectiveness as servants of Christ. That’s exactly what Paul describes in Romans 12:2 when he says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

And yet, as every Christian well knows, the old mind is still there with its habits of self-preoccupation, cravings for sensation, vain imaginations, and its appetite for what is cheap and gross. The old mind is the culprit that keeps us going back to the spiritual junk food. The old mind is the subtle enemy that keeps us feeding only on milk when we should be going on to meat. The old mind is what keeps us from being transformed and more committed to Christ and His Word. Many believers find themselves in a seeming holding pattern as they struggle with the besetting sins of their former lives. That’s because the key to breaking the cycle is often hidden right under our noses.

Lifting the Veil

Paul gives a beautiful explanation in 2 Corinthians 3:13–18. As he describes the glories of the new covenant that Christians have with God, he goes back to the time of Moses and the Israelites. At one point, after being in God’s presence, Moses’ face shone with such brilliant glory that he had to put a veil over it in order not to blind his people. But as glorious as Moses’ ministry of the law to the Israelites was, Paul says that it does not compare with the surpassing glory of the gospel of Christ and the new covenant that He installed with His death and resurrection (cf. 2 Corinthians 3:7–11).

And Paul adds that since we have such a wonderful hope in Christ, we can be very bold.

[We] are not like Moses, who used to put a veil over his face so that the sons of Israel would not look intently at the end of what was fading away. But their minds were hardened; for until this very day at the reading of the old covenant the same veil remains unlifted. (2 Corinthians 3:13–14)

What Paul is simply saying here is that the Jews of his day who didn’t know Christ remained with their minds veiled. They could not see the Lord because the veil of the old covenant—the Law—stood in the way. Paul says that the veil,

Remains unlifted, because it is removed in Christ. But to this day whenever Moses is read, a veil lies over their heart; but whenever a person turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. (2 Corinthians 3:14–17)

And then Paul comes to the thought that I am most concerned with: “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit” (2 Corinthians 3:18). So Paul tells us that we can be changed into the image and glory of the Lord. It is very simple, he says. We don’t change ourselves. We just stand staring into the face of Jesus Christ and the Spirit of God does the transforming for us!

The Solitary Source

But you may feel there is just one hitch. You may be saying, “If I’m supposed to look on the glory of the Lord, where do I find it to look upon?” And, of course, the answer to that is in God’s Word.

If you keep learning and beholding the glory of God in His Word, the Spirit of God will transform you into the image of Jesus Christ. It is just that simple (and just that difficult). So many Christians are seeking some shortcut to growth—naming and claiming their victory; watching Christian television; having the hands of “anointed prophets” laid on them. But the shortcut simply doesn’t exist.

The greatest thing that ever happened in my life, next to my salvation, was the day I learned to study and feed on God’s Word. I find that the longer, the more intensely, and the more devotedly I look into the glory of Jesus Christ through the pages of Scripture, the more the Spirit of God changes my life into the image of Christ. There are no shortcuts. If I am to grow, to mature, and to finally be transformed, I must feed on the Word of God!

The Growing Christian

Lack of growth is a sad thing to see in anyone or anything. It is especially tragic in Christians. And unfortunately too many believers don’t seem to be growing in their faith. The major cause is always a failure to be feeding on God’s Word.

In 1 Peter 1:23–2:3, the great apostle compares God’s Word to two things that are vital for life and growth: an imperishable seed and the milk of the Word. As Christ taught in His parable of the sower, God’s Word is like a seed that brings about the new birth. Just as a seed contains the power and energy of life, so too does God’s Word.

Before the Christian can get the most from feeding on God’s Word, he needs to get rid of the toxins that are still present in his life because of the lingering old nature. Peter describes these poisons as the evils of worldly malice, the guile of deceitfulness, the phoniness of hypocrisy, the self-centeredness of envy, and the slander of gossip. If we want to watch our diet, we should start with the sincere milk of the Word of God, and we are guaranteed to grow.

Our goal is to become fully mature and Christlike through feeding on the more solid food to be found in Scripture. The prophet Jeremiah described that process beautifully in Jeremiah 15:16: “Your words were found and I ate them, and your words became for me a joy and the delight of my heart; for I have been called by Your name, O Lord God of hosts.”

[ John MacArthur ]

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“Christianity is NOT a blind faith”

[ Todd Friel ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2poDhmUcqg

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“The Kindling of Christian Hedonism”

[ John Piper ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ezy6n2jJ9Y&list=RD_ezy6n2jJ9Y

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“The Bible’s Big Story”

[ Nancy Guthrie ]

Presentation: https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/the-bibles-big-story

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“The B-I-B-L-E, Yes, That’s the Book for… Us”

[ Samantha Poteat ]

Presentation: https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/the-b-i-b-l-e-yes-thats-the-book-for-us

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“Mining God’s Word”

[ Tom Steller ]

Presentation: https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/mining-gods-word

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“Greatest Book, Greatest Chapter, Greatest Joy”

[ John Piper ]

Presentation: https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/greatest-book-greatest-chapter-greatest-joy

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“Four Obstacles in Bible Reading”

[ John Piper ]

Part 1: “I Don’t Want to Read the Bible”:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7o-JCmI7k4

Part 2: “I Don’t See Wonders”:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ARsqkUwKRk

Part 3” “I Am Distracted and Divided”:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zu_uUhtfR3Q

Part 4: “My Emotional Response Is Weak”:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YzXb_qWD6z

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“A.P.T.A.T. – A STRATEGY FOR DAILY BIBLE READING”

How do we begin reading the Bible supernaturally? God is certainly not under our power to control or manipulate him into helping us. Nevertheless, by his own grace, God loves to help his children understand his word. So how are we to set out Bible reading so that we read and think in dependence on God’s supernatural help at every moment?

John Piper’s acronym A.P.T.A.T. gives practical steps to walk in God’s power whenever you open your Bible:

Admit you can do nothing without God (John 15:5).
Pray for help (Psalm 50:15).
Trust a specific promise (2 Chronicles 20:20).
Act (Philippians 2:12–13).
Thank God for his provision and goodness (Psalm 106:1).
Watch the five-minute video above, where John Piper unpacks each of these five steps and applies them to the supernatural task of reading the Bible.

[ John Piper ]

Presentation: https://www.desiringgod.org/a-p-t-a-t

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“How to Read the Bible”

Are you making time each day to study God’s Word? Dr. Stanley shares a personal and practical way of approaching the Bible.

[ Charles Stanley ]

Sermon Snippet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cIiJD9H0h78

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“Voddie Baucham – Q&A”

A question and answer session, following pastor Voddie Baucham’s sermon on why we can believe the Bible.

[ Voddie Baucham ]

Q&A: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RQvSg8Yxxkg

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“How to Study Your Bible: Closing the Gaps”

I want you to open your Bible, as we discuss this matter of how to get the most out of God’s Word, and turn to 2 Timothy chapter 2 verse 15. I apologize in some ways because normally on a Sunday morning and evening we take a passage of Scripture and we work through that passage in an expository fashion. But this is a very special series. Not so much like preaching and more like a classroom, as we’re talking about principles of Bible study.
By virtue of the subject we are forced to deal with some technical things and some things that are not necessarily related to a text of Scripture, but are so essential and so foundational that they will prepare you to study all the passages of Scripture. So if you’ll indulge me a little bit to be the teacher rather than the preacher today and give you a lesson on Bible study, you’ll be well-served and so will I.

[ John MacArthur ]

Sermon: https://www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/90-158/~/about

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“How to Read Your Bible During a Pandemic”

Alan Shlemon of Stand to Reason teaches some easy and basic principles of Bible reading.

[ Alan Shlemon ]

Part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ff7LxdUV4GE

Part 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbPpmCKoBN8

Part 3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zgrNJZpqHLw

Part 4: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v5ZS4jFvpQc

Part 5: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HATdNTkExLk

Part 6: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lT5E3t6Ead0

Part 7: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d4T9wTPIYVg

Part 8: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHaw6vE27Q0

Part 9: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iRSMP6BZeoU

Part 10: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MP-9JXr1-4c

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“Habit #1: Spiritually Happy Men Read the Bible Regularly”

The Big Idea: Your life will never change in any significant way apart from the regular study of God’s Word.

What differentiates joyful men from the rest of the pack? In this new series, we’re going to explore six foolproof habits that set genuinely happy men apart from men who feel like lasting happiness eludes them. Easily the number one factor that differentiates happy from ‘almost’ happy men is what they decide to do with the Bible. Join us as we offer both inspiration and practical ideas to become the spiritually happy man God created you to be. It’s going to be a great day!

[ Patrick Morley ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qnvFyJkzW6o&feature=youtu.be&t=288

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“How to Study Your Bible”

Truly the Bible is magnificent. Early twentieth-century evangelist Billy Sunday pictured the Bible like a majestic palace. He wrote,

I entered through the portico of Genesis and walked down through the Old Testament’s art gallery, where I saw the portraits of Joseph, Jacob, Daniel, Moses, Isaiah, Solomon and David hanging on the wall; I entered the music room of the Psalms and the Spirit of God struck the keyboard of my nature until it seemed to me that every reed and pipe in God’s great organ of nature responded to the harp of David, and the charm of King Solomon in his moods.

I walked into the business house of Proverbs.

I walked into the observatory of the prophets and there saw photographs of various sizes, some pointing to far-off stars or events—all concentrated upon one great Star which was to rise as an atonement for sin.

Then I went into the audience room of the King of Kings, and got a vision from four points—from Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. I went into the correspondence room, and saw Peter, James, Paul and Jude, penning their epistles to the world. I went into the Acts of the Apostles and saw the Holy Spirit forming the Holy Church, and then I walked into the throne room and saw a door at the foot of a tower and, going up, I saw One standing there, fair as the morning, Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and I found this truest friend that man ever knew; when all were false I found him true (BillySunday Speaks [New York: Chelsea House, 1970], p. 23). [more…]

[ John MacArthur ]

Article: https://www.gty.org/library/articles/45STUDY/how-to-study-your-bible

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“How to Study the Bible”

You try faithfully to read and study your Bible, yet you still wonder, How can I study the Bible so it really makes a difference in my life? Or, What’s the best way to dig into the Word?

There’s no more important skill you can cultivate than handling your Bible with understanding and accuracy. There’s no greater joy than digging into and discovering biblical truth on your own. And there’s no part of life that a deeper and wider grasp of God’s Word doesn’t touch.

In How to Study the Bible, John MacArthur takes you on a fascinating exploration of God’s Word to reveal its glorious attributes.

[ John MacArthur ]

Topical Series: https://www.gty.org/library/topical-series-library/82/how-to-study-the-bible

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“What is BibleProject?”

The Bible is one unified story that leads to Jesus, but we don’t always treat it that way. At The Bible Project, we make animated videos that explore the books and themes of the Bible.

[ BibleProject ]

Teachings: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVfwlh9XpX2Y_tQfjeln9QA

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“Why should I read the Bible?”

The Bible: Any other book or an invitation to know God?

A video I had the privilege of making with my brother over the summer.
The audio is a bit rough around the edges but the message is clear and powerful.

What’s your thoughts on the Bible? Is it any other book or an invitation to know God? If it is the Word of God then are you treating it that way. Have a listen to what Sam has to say in this challenging clip.

[ Jon Brown ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KeG2G5gzn2Q

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“How to Read the Bible: What is the Bible?”

This is episode 1 of an ongoing series that explores the origins, content, and purpose of the Bible. Here you’ll be introduced to a condensed history of how the Bible came into existence, and the different forms of the Bible in the Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant Christian traditions.

[ Bible Project ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ak06MSETeo4

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“Why Read the Bible?”

The highest goal of Bible reading is not to find wisdom for living, or to internalize a list of dos and don’ts — but to know and enjoy Jesus.

[ David Mathis ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pcsoxLQ1r9Y

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“This is Why You Need To Read The Bible!”

Get to know the Word of God.
B.I.B.L.E. = Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth

Really Sorry for the misquoted bible verses where the text is right but the Bible Verse is wrong! At least the speaker says it right.

[ A & Ω Productions ]

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v9JOsxnFx-I

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“Why Read the Bible? — Here’s 4 Reasons why you Should NOT Read the Bible. ;)”

Why read the Bible? Want to know, how to study the Bible effectively during your Bible times? Here’s a FUNNY video I named: 4 reasons why you should NOT read the Bible, done in a sort of, John Crist comedian style. You may have been searching for how to read the bible, or how to study the Bible for yourself, but found this video. It’s okay. This video may not answer those questions, but it will offer you some insight on how to understand the Bible, and why read the Bible.

[ Nelson Domingues ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3fwzMSysmo

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“Why Do We Read the Bible?”

The motive for why we read the Bible is often different from the motive we should have. Any time we spend interacting with the Scriptures should leave us with a greater sense of who God is.

[ Jen Wilkin ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I5sgPOF8PFQ

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“Three Reasons to Read the Bible Every Day”

As we begin another year of Bible reading, Pastor John takes us back to the basics: feed your motivation, grow in skill, and pray for illumination.

Happy New Year! We are again talking about Bible reading in 2019. Here’s today’s question. “Hello, Pastor John, I am Kennedy from Uganda. I have been listening to your sermons, and I thank God for using you to impact our lives through the word that you preach. My question: Whenever I am reading the Bible, I find it hard to understand what the author intended for me to understand when he wrote it. Currently, I am doing my devotions in the book of Genesis, but I so often find myself totally blank after I’ve read a text. What’s the first basic skill in Bible reading to find meaning for myself?”

[ John Piper ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHgocX4mBX0

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“Why should we read the Bible / study the Bible?”

Why should we read the Bible / study the Bible? What is the value in reading the Bible for yourself?

[ Got Questions ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3t1-VK3_CNU

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“How to Read the Bible: Biblical Story”

This video summarizes the overall story of the Bible as a series of crossroad decisions. All humanity, followed by the Israelites, redefine good and evil and end up in Babylon. They are followed by Jesus, who takes a different path that opens up the way to a new creation.

[ BibleProject ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7_CGP-12AE0

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“Why Read the Bible”

[ Robert Mullen ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkaJ7wANahk

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“How to Read the Bible”

[ Robert Mullen ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_TiIg_dpFiA

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“Why Read the Bible?”

For more David Pawson’s teaching, visit http://www.inspirational.org.nz
Click “Show More” for more information…
Thoughtful Thoughts 2.8.19 Why read the Bible?

Re. The “answer” promised to “Christians for Israel” readers…
I promised to provide “Christians for Israel” readers with an answer to the problem of the church altering the original text of the Jewish Bible, when they “translated” it to create the Old Testament. Before getting to the answer, we’ll look at the problem again for the benefit of those who didn’t read the article.

The Problem…
The Jewish Bible is called the TaNaKh. Jesus called it, “The Law, and the Prophets, and the Psalms”, (Luke 24:44), (also called the ‘Writings’), and so this TaNaKh was accepted by Jesus as being the Scriptures. By ‘Googling’ for the “TaNaKh”, you will find the order of books which those Scriptures had, and which Jesus accepted. Now, compare the TaNaKh which Jesus accepted with your own Bible…

[ David Pawson ]

Part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9krVv8OUrIE
Part 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZFluukpPjQ
Part 3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Pq0hD2Q7A8
Part 4: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VvErSNmGCf8

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“How To LOVE READING the BIBLE | Practical Tips”

If you’ve ever been discouraged because you know you should read the Bible…but you really just don’t like to, this video is for you! I’ve heard it said before that reading the Bible isn’t for everyone—that some people just connect with God better in other ways. I don’t think that’s true. While I agree that we all connect with God in ways unique to our personalities, I believe those other ways are supplemental. I believe the Bible is for ALL believers, and I truly believe that no matter your personality or whether or not you’re someone who typically enjoys reading, we can ALL cultivate a true LOVE for reading God’s Word. Let’s talk about how.

[ Kaci Nicole ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vWhKVbqykc4

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“The Bible Is God’s Word”

Albert Mohler continues his apologetics series, in this second address, affirming the Bible is God’s Word.

[ Albert Mohler ]

Teaching: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6lqZgcGIN0

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“The Authority of Scripture”

This message will defend the claim that Scripture alone (as opposed to the Quran, Book of Mormon, etc.) is the Word of God, and defend the claim that Scripture is inerrant.

[ Albert Mohler ]

Teaching: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVzb_qfbW8E

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“Should I Interpret the Bible Literally?”

Cynics love to mock Christians who believe in a literal interpretation of the Bible. They note supposed absurdities like, the Bible is a sword (Hebrews 4:12); Jesus is a door (John 10:7); and God is a bird (Psalm 61:4). Of course, such caricatures of the process are obvious misrepresentations of proper biblical interpretation.

Serious students of Scripture, committed to its accuracy and authority, follow five basic principles of interpretation in order to understand the Bible how its authors intended.

1. The Literal Principle

When you read the Bible assume God is speaking in normal language, common everyday communication. If it says man, it means man. If it says the man went somewhere, it means he went somewhere. If it says he built a house, it means he built a house. This is understanding Scripture in the literal sense of language.

Scripture employs are similes, metaphors, hyperbole, and figurative language throughout. Even sarcasm is employed as a literary device. Those devices are used alongside normal, literal language to help illustrate or punctuate what Scripture is saying to the reader. There is seldom confusion in what God’s Word says or how it says it.

In everyday conversation, if we hear someone say, “That man is as strong as an ox,” no one is confused. That is simply using a simile to make a literal point or statement. We need to be wary of those who claim to unlock the Bible’s secrets by bending and twisting symbolic language beyond its clear intent. There is no need to extrapolate some mystical interpretation out of the text, nor insert one into it.

2. The Historical Principle

History is not only a gap to be bridged, but a context to be understood. What did the text mean to the people to whom it was spoken or written? What was the situation the author and his audience found themselves in? Historical circumstances not only explain what is written, but often whyit is written. Ignoring the historical setting often leads to missing the point of a passage.

3. The Grammatical Principle

Very few people enjoy grammar, let alone remember their grammar lessons. But grammar is the key to meaning. Prepositions, pronouns, verbs, nouns—and the other parts of speech—are the bones that support every sentence. Imagine a medical examiner trying to determine cause of death without knowing basic anatomy. The result would be no less confusing and prone to error than interpreting the Bible without considering its grammar.

For example, consider the great commission: “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them . . . teaching them to observe all that I commanded you” (Matthew 28:19–20). On first reading, “go” sounds like an imperative (verb) as does “make disciples,” “baptizing,” and “teaching.” But as you study the sentence, you will find that there’s only one imperative—mathēteusate, “make disciples.” “Go,” “baptizing,” and “teaching” are actually all participles which means they modify the main verb. The central command of the great commission is to “make disciples.” How does one make disciples? You go, baptize, and teach. Understanding the grammar makes the fullness of that concept come out in the text.

4. The Synthesis Principle

The synthesis principle is what the Reformers called the analogia scriptura—the Scripture all comes together. In other words, one part of the Bible doesn’t teach something that another part contradicts. So as you study the Scripture it must all harmonize. (By the way, this is another reason a comprehensive Bible-reading plan is critical.)

For example, Jesus’ story of the sheep and the goats (Matthew 25:31–46) cannot be about salvation by works (feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the prisoner), because Ephesians 2:8–9 tells us that salvation is by grace through faith apart from works. Careful examination reveals that the sheep and the goats in Matthew 25 all thought of themselves as believers—they both call Jesus “Lord” (Matthew 25:37,44). Furthermore, this harmonizes with James 2:17 which says that “faith, if it has no works, is dead.” That’s the synthesis principle.

J.I. Packer has wonderfully said, “The Bible appears like a symphony orchestra, with the Holy Ghost as its Toscanini, each instrument has been brought willingly, spontaneously, creatively, to play his notes just as the great conductor desired, though none of them could ever hear the music as a whole. . . .The point of each part only becomes fully clear when seen in relation to all the rest” (from God Has Spoken).

Do you know what that tells me? There are no contradictions in Scripture. What appear as contradictions can be resolved if we have the information, because the Bible comes together as a whole.

5. The Practical Principle

The final question is: So what? As you try to interpret the Bible, how do you find out what it means for your life? Make sure in your Bible study that you find the practical principle. Read the text and find out what spiritual principle is there that applies to you. But remember that you can’t do that until you’ve gone through the other principles first—literal, historical, grammatical, and synthesis. You know what it means by what it says—now you come to how it applies to you.

Conclusion

You must interpret the Bible rightly. Avoid the common errors, bridge the gaps between the biblical text and your modern setting, and apply the proper principles of interpretation. That brings you to the place where you are ready to engrave God’s Word on your heart (Proverbs 3:3) by meditating on the text. We’ll consider that next time.

[ John MacArthur ]

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“On Studying God’s Word”

[ Steve Lawson ]

Q&A: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5IoZBqMHzCU

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“Proper Biblical Interpretation”

Tonight, we have the great privilege, I think, of looking at a subject that is important to all of us. I’m not going to be dealing with the specific text, although we’ll cover a number of texts before we’re through tonight. But I want to carry on our special study of charismatic chaos, looking and evaluating the charismatic movement from the Word of God, by focusing on the issue of interpreting the Bible. One of the things that allows for the charismatic movement to continue to move ahead is that it is engaged in misinterpretation of Scripture.

I know that’s a strong thing to say, but it’s true. The movement continues, really, at an amazing pace, not only in America but around the world, and as it moves and catapults itself along, it does so at the expense of Scripture. There is, in my judgment, very little understanding in the charismatic movement of proper Bible interpretation. Much of what exists in the charismatic movement could be eliminated with just some very simple, straightforward, basic understanding of how to properly interpret the Bible.[more…]

[ John MacArthur ]

Article: https://www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/90-55/proper-biblical-interpretation

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A Love Letter From God

The Bible itself can be considered a collection of God’s love letters to the world. Here is one penned by my hand, inspired by the Word of God and His love for me – and for all the World.

My Child,

If there was one thing that I would ask of you today, it would be to spend time with Me. I do know that it is difficult sometimes to find the time, but that is part of what makes it all the more precious when you do take a few minutes to be with Me.

I also understand how life can be difficult, specially for those who choose to follow Me. So I understand when you cry to me, seeking my help, specially at the most desperate of times. I even appreciate it that you come to me for the little things; I find even that special. But I do hope that we can just spend time together, even when you don’t need anything from me.

Please take the time to get to know Me. Find a Secret Place, a place we can fellowship together, a place we can be alone together. I desire that time with you, and I hope you would desire it as well.

And don’t ever think that you’re not good enough, that you’re not worthy to spend time with Me. I believe you are precious, I believe that you are unique, I believe you are worthy of My love and My time.

If you ever think that you’re not good enough, turn to My Word, My promises. Think of the story of David, one who was considered a man after My heart. He was not a perfect man, he had many transgressions. But always he would return to Me, seek my forgiveness. And think of my Son. Remember that My Son came to make you worthy; His sacrifice on the cross gives you the right to be My child, to be in My presence.

I want to show you how much I love you, I want you to know them in your heart, and not just as words on a page. The greatest gift anybody can give is love, and the greatest gift I give you is My love. My Perfect Love.

Remember also not to be jealous of that love, not to keep it for yourself. Because as I love you, I love those around you, I love the world. In fact, I need you to show them how much I love them as well. As I love you, I want you to love them, so that they can know that I love them with a complete, forgiving love.

Just as I have made you worthy, despite whatever you have done, or think you have done, also remember that the Blood of Christ can make them worthy as well. Do not judge them for the circumstances you see, for the gruff nature, for what seems to be a sinful heart. Just love them, and show them that love. That’s what I need.

And if you ever feel weak, if you struggle through your life, if you feel you need My love, come to me and I will never turn you away. If you need rest, I will give it, if you need healing I shall provide it. Spend time with Me, and I will renew your strength.

And no matter what comes up against you, remember and keep this in your heart, that I will always love you, and nothing will ever be able to keep Me or My love, away from you.

[ Michael Bradley ]

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“A Love Letter sent to you from God”

Christian devotional.

[ Thomas Watson ]

Audio Reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ih3Z1GhBxWc

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“Ecclesiastes/Song of Solomon”

Jim Cantelon speaks with Dr. Larry Crabb about his book “66 Love Letters: A Conversation With God That Invites You Into His Story”. Dr. Crabb suggests that we need to look at the Bible as a love letter from God

[ Dr. Larry Crabb ]

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pk0FD36d3L0&feature=youtu.be&t=337

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“Why the World Rejects God’s Word”

I have so many things from week to week that I want to say to you. I won’t say all of them this morning, but close. Obviously we are here in obedience to our Lord. We are here because He has given us commands, not in some personal esoteric way, not through some vision or dream, not because I hear voices from heaven – I don’t – but because I have a Bible, and the Word of God is that very Word of God.

Grace Church is defined by its commitment to Holy Scripture. For true Christians the Bible is our greatest treasure. It is more precious to us than gold, than much fine gold. It is sweeter to us than honey from the honeycomb. We can say with the psalmist in Psalm 119, at least a half a dozen times, “O how I love Your law! It is my meditation all the day. I love Your commands.” The apostle Paul said that those who belong to God possess the love of the truth. John records that those who love the Lord keep His commandments. And the psalmist said in Psalm 40 and verse 8, “I delight to do Your will, O my God; Your Law is within my heart.”

We desire the word like a babe desires milk – to borrow Peter’s words. In John 6, many of the followers of Jesus – superficial followers – had abandoned Him. And He said to the remaining disciples, “Will you also go away?” to which their spokesman Peter said, “To whom shall we go? You and You alone have the words of eternal life.”

[ John MacArthur ]

Sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G4HkMphUO3c

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“The Armor of God – Sword of the Spirit”

A sword under the Weekly Devotional banner
“Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” (Ephesians 6:13)

The sixth piece of armor that Paul discusses in Ephesians 6 is the sword of the spirit, which represents the Word of God. For a Roman soldier, the sword served as an offensive weapon against enemies. When sharpened, the sword could pierce through just about anything, making it a very dangerous tool.

To understand the connection between the sword and the Word of God, it is first important to understand the power of God’s Word. Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”

Through God’s Word, we can distinguish between right and wrong. As a result, we can strive to live in a way that is free from sin. His Word is the ultimate truth, and we can find confidence in knowing it is our greatest weapon.

If we are lacking in knowledge of God’s Word, we will struggle to fight against the enemy. However, those who seek God’s Word and abide by it will be blessed. John 5:24 says, “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.”

In addition, the sword of the spirit is unique in that it can be used as both a defensive and offensive tool. While God’s Word can protect us from the lies of the enemy, it can also counter attacks. For example, Jesus used God’s Word as an offensive weapon in Matthew 4 when Satan tried to test Him in the wilderness.

So, how can we use the sword of the spirit in our lives? We are not meant to keep the knowledge we gain from God’s Word to ourselves. When we are asked to defend what we believe, we can use God’s Word to point back to Him.

Sometimes, it is not easy to take up our swords and fight against the enemy. However, we are not called to do this by our own strength. When facing trials, we can find peace in knowing that God is on our side. Romans 8:31 says, “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”

I encourage you to take up the sword of the spirit in your daily life. Remember that God’s Word is the ultimate truth and that we can stand on His promises. With God on our side, we are unstoppable.

[ Lauren Abraham ]

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“WHICH BIBLE TRANSLATION SHOULD I READ?”WHICH BIBLE TRANSLATION SHOULD I READ?”

You got KJV, NASB and now the Message. And so today I want to talk about the three different types of Bible translations and the pros and cons of each.

No Bible Translation is Perfect
– The original Bible was written in Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek [which is why most theological schools teach Greek and Hebrew] meaning men had to interpret what they believed the text was saying.
– The problem is that there are close to 5 million words in the Biblical Greek language and only 1 million English words making it very difficult to always find an exact English word or phrase that reflects the true meaning of the biblical text.

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JzLFcQx5g4

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“A Bible That’s Falling Apart Usually Belongs To A Person Who’s Not”

Spiritual growth” is one of those fuzzy, nebulous things that many wish they could experience, but few are sure how it happens.

But it’s not really all that mysterious. Paul tells his young friend and apprentice Timothy, “Continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of” (2 Tim.3:14), and in that one sentence are three stepping stones to spiritual growth: First, you have to learn spiritual truths, then you have to become convinced of their durability and solidity (i.e. that they are worth trusting), and finally you continue living them out.

When Paul refers to Timothy’s learning, the context of the verse makes it clear that what Timothy has learned is the Word of God. He was taught the “sacred writings” as a child (vs.15; cf. 1:5), then Paul reminds Timothy of the great value of “all scripture” (vs.16).

So the first stepping stone in growing up spiritually: You have to learn the Word of God. [more…]

Article: https://www.trainyourselfministry.com/a-bible-thats-falling-apart-usually-belongs-to-someone-whos-not/

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“Help! I Want to Read the Bible, but I Find It Boring”

Let’s Be Honest
Do you find the Bible boring?

Not just those parts of Numbers and Leviticus that we conveniently skip during daily devotions. I mean all of it. Would you much rather be reading something—anything—else? Does a mindless scroll through Facebook posts you’ve already read seem more attractive than sitting down to read the Bible?

Or do you not want to admit that?

If we’re honest, I think we’ve all been there. It took years before I learned to enjoy and love the word—and that was after I became a Christian. Here are a few things I learned as a young person struggling to find a love for the Scripture. Perhaps they’ll be helpful for you, too—especially if you’re also a teen!

Ask for the Spirit’s Help
[more…]

[ Katherine Forster ]

Article: https://www.crossway.org/articles/help-i-want-to-read-the-bible-but-i-find-it-boring/

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“10 Reasons Why, ‘I’m Not Getting ANYTHING Out of My Bible Study!’”

Are you struggling to get anything out of your Bible study? Do you feel like your Bible study has become dry, stale, boring, mundane, and an overall burden? Has it become a task that you do so you don’t have to feel guilty about NOT doing it? There could be some specific reasons why you’re not “getting anything” out of your Bible study time with God. Here are 10 reasons why that might be the case.

[ Allen Parr ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PnPBXg3msI

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“When You Don’t Like Reading the Bible”

Do you ever feel like banging your head against your Bible?

Does reading Scripture feel like a detox diet, where nothing tastes good, but you choke down the foods because they’re healthy?

Do you recognize nothing is sinking in as your eyes glaze over the words and pages?

As a new Christian, I rode the bus to work every day with my head buried in my pocket Bible, underlining passages as they jumped off the page. I memorized verses and bought multiple translations, commentaries and other resources.

I was the local Christian bookstore’s best friend.

No other book had ever pegged me so accurately. I saw my problems laid bare on its pages and yet found hope that I could become a new person.

But at some point in my journey, the Bible and I drifted apart. I’d open that same pocket Bible, but the connection to its contents was gone. We’d stopped talking to each other.

It all came to a head the summer I taught a class on how to study the Bible.

Weeks before the course was scheduled to start, the anxiety attacks began. I’d wake up crying, overcome with panic.

I’d been in full-time ministry for four years and was about to be exposed as a fraud.

How could I impart enthusiasm for reading Scripture when I had stopped enjoying the Bible myself?

Perhaps you’re facing similar frustration, disappointment and even shame over your experience with Scripture. If that’s you, before writing yourself off as a Bible-lite believer, here are some things to consider:

[ Ross McCall ]

Article: https://www.cru.org/us/en/blog/share-the-gospel/obstacles-to-faith/when-you-dont-like-reading-the-bible.html

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“How To – Read, Study, Memorize, Meditate & Use the Word of God”

[ John Barnett ]

Sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vsTOdjyhFa8

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“What If I Don’t Want to Read the Bible?”

How I long for your precepts! In your righteousness preserve my life. May your unfailing love come to me, LORD, your salvation, according to your promise… (Psalm 119:40-41)

We’ve recently considered how to better read the Bible with our whole selves. But at this time of the year, many of us wrestle with a more basic problem: what if we don’t want to read the Bible in the first place?

This can be tough to even admit for some of us. For many Christians, Bible reading––especially as part of a daily devotional schedule––is one of the big “shoulds” of faith. In fact, that’s likely part of the issue. Many of us have been told that we should read the Bible, but we’ve hardly ever been told how to stick with it or why we should want to in the first place.

But there’s nothing wrong with simple honesty. Given enough years of growing faith, we simply will encounter times when the Bible feels “blah.” (Yes––that’s the technical theological term.) Such times are a chance to learn, shake things up, and move toward the reason we’re passionate about living Bible-rich lives in the first place––finding our place in the story that points to Jesus. With that in mind, I’d like to offer four things that any of us can do when (not if) we don’t want to read the Bible. [more…]

[ Paul J. Pastor ]

Article: https://bibleproject.com/blog/what-if-i-dont-want-to-read-my-bible/

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“5 Tips for Picking the Best Bible Translation”

There are dozens of Bible translations. The King James, the New King James, the English Standard Version, the New International Version, the New American Standard, the 21st Century King James Version, the New Living Translation, and many others. Which is the best Bible translation for you to read? Which is closer to the original text? What translations use the original Greek, Aramaic, or Hebrew? Is there one single version of the Bible that theologians, pastors, or churches prefer?

The Languages of the Bible
Bible Translation
There are dozens of Bible translations

First of all, the Bible was originally written in Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic. Much of the Old Testament Hebrew was trans- lated into the Greek called the Septuagint. I received a wonderful gift once. It was a Bible that had four different translations in one edition. This is an exceptional Bible study tool that allows the reader to look at each different translation to extract meaning out of each and every verse you read. I recommend that you own or buy more than one Bible translation and do not depend upon any one single version because different Bibles bring out different areas that can differ in interpretation. I also prefer the Bibles with margins and footnotes where the original Hebrew, Greek, or Aramaic is given.

Which is the Best Bible Translation?

There is no simple answer to this. Some of this has to do with which part of the Bible you want to read. The Bible is the Word of God, God-breathed and God inspired (2 Tim 3:16). It is described as living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword since it can penetrate human thoughts and motives (Heb 4:12). The Word is the very power of God (Isaiah 55:11). Which translation is best? I will answer this question but first, there are five tips that I would recommend before you pick the “best”.

Tip Number One: Popular Doesn’t Mean Accurate
The most popular translations are not always the best translation. For example the Living Bible, the Message, or the Amplified Bible are very popular today but they tend to paraphrase a bit too much. This leaves too much room for personal interpretation and the Bible is not for private interpretation (2 Pet. 1:20). When authors try to translate the Bible into the modern day vernacular, they take too much license in the wording and as has been said: Take text out of context and it makes it a pretext. This is exactly what modern day translations like the Amplified Bible or the Message do. They take the verses and put them into a story form. These translations paraphrase too much and this makes extracting the meaning even more difficult or gives a meaning that can be misleading. They may be the most popular, but that does not mean they are the most accurate.

Tip Number Two: Modern Translations Can Become Mistranslations
An example of this can be found in Matthew (28:20) when Jesus was departing this world and the disciples for heaven and giving them instructions regarding the Great Commission. Read how these different translations differ in only one verse.

The Common English Bible, “teaching them to obey everything that I’ve commanded you. Look, I myself will be with you every day until the end of this present age.”

The New Century Version, “Teach them to obey everything that I have taught you, and I will be with you always, even until the end of this age.”

The Message, “Jesus, undeterred, went right ahead and gave his charge: “God authorized and commanded me to commission you: Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you. I’ll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age.”

The New International Version (NIV) is the best rendering with the original meaning, “and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

The NIV is better than The Message because where The Message version says to “Go out and train everyone you meet…” but the NIV simply says “teaching them to obey everything I have command you.” This is a big difference. It would be hard to go out and “train everyone you meet” (The Message) when it specifically means to teach only those that you “make disciples” (v. 19 of Matthew 28). Plus The Message uses 78 words in translating one verse while the NIV uses only 24 words in the same verse (v. 20 Matthew 28).

Also The Message puts quotations around Jesus inferred meaning. That is dangerous theological ground when you are quoting Jesus and He didn’t exactly say those specific words. The margin of error skyrockets when the author adds several words. You can be sure that there were not that many words in the original Greek text so the meaning is effectually changed.

Tip Number Three: Buy a Study Bible
If you are going to spend good money on buying a Bible, you might as well invest in a good one. Whatever Bible translation you use, get a Study Bible or one that has footnotes and side margins. These Bibles will tell you when some manuscripts were added and not in the original text while noting that other manuscripts are omitted and not in the original texts. A good example is what is commonly called the Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6:19-13. It reads, “This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. The New International Version correctly states that some late manuscripts read, “for yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.” I am always cautious when I read “some later manuscripts read” because these were added by non-apostles. In this case, this verse was added by the Catholic Church at a much later date than the original manuscripts were written. These should be red flags for the readers that they are not inspired by the original author and thus are not considered scriptural. Also, some Bibles use italics and this is for an important reason. Anytime you see italics used in scripture, customarily these means that the words or sentences were not in the original text and have been inserted by a later, non-apostolic or non-original author. It can also mean that they were not found in the original manuscripts or that they were found in some later manuscripts. .

Incidentally, the Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6:9-13 is not in actuality the “Lord’s Prayer”. It is an example or arch-type of how to pray that Jesus Himself gave. The key is where He said, “This, then, is how you should pray” (v 9). The actual Lord’s Prayer is really found in John 17:1-26 and it is called the “High Priestly Prayer” because it is where Jesus actually prays. He is not just giving an example on how to pray as in Matthew chapter six. A good Study Bible will point this important difference out.

Tip Number Four: Research Your Bible Translation
Even before you buy a Bible, research the translation. Do your homework. Just because the Bible translation is more reflective of modern day, liberal thought, does not necessarily make it better. I would also not buy a Bible translation just because it was written in a more poetic nature. Perhaps you could also ask a pastor, a Sunday school teacher, or an elder or deacon or a trusted Christian friend about which translation that they use or one that they like. What translation does your church use? This doesn’t ensure it is the best one. This was a decision that the church made as a whole and was not taken lightly, but it was also one that may have been decided upon many years ago before they knew about some issues in that particular translation. You can rest assured that the church counseled together long before making a decision on buying these Bibles for the church but they are only human and can make mistakes. Even though this was likely not a snap decision it does not mean it is the best translation available. Much forethought must have gone into the process of purchasing them but you may have discovered one that is a more accurate one. Just because the church chose it doesn’t mean it’s the best translation.

Tip Number Five: The Best Translation
The “best” is subjective. There is no one single translation of the Bible that stands head and shoulders above the rest. There is one version of the Bible that is used by more seminaries, more churches, and quoted more often by Christian websites. If you Google verses of the Bible, the chances are high that it will return a Bible Gateway link (http://www.biblegateway.com/) and that translation will be the New International Version (2011). The NIV as it is called, is the most often used but many do not consider it the most reliable and even though it might be the most often quoted of any of the major translations that are used today doesn’t mean it is the best. What is popular is not always right just as what is right is not always popular.

If I were to personally recommend a Bible translation, I would select the King James Version, the New King James or the English Standard Version (ESV). The ESV Study Bible is the one that I use and with the margins and footnotes, I can easily reference the original work in Greek, Aramaic, or Hebrew. The New King James (NKJ) Study Bible is also a fine translation. As I said before, I have several translations and I use more than one. But a Study Bible always gives you more and better information on the scriptures and it gives you associated scriptural references from elsewhere in the Bible that have to do with the same subject, topic, or person. An example is in my ESV Study Bible, John 19:25 the Roman soldier’s caste lots for Jesus seamless tunic which fulfilled the prophecy of Him in Psalm 22:18.

Only you can decide which translation is best. I have only given you the three that I think are the most accurate and the best for Bible study. You ultimately will have to make your own decision. I have more than one translation myself. Whichever one you choose, a good Study Bible will never disappoint and the English Standard Version, the New International Version or the New King James Study Bibles will be something that you will get years and years of satisfaction from. There is so much enjoyment in studying the Word of God. And if you have all three Study Bibles, then you’ve won the Triple Crown. And then you can teach me a thing or two about the Bible I am sure.

[ Jack Wellman ]

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“Which is the Best Bible translation?”

[ Bible Society ]

Website: https://www.biblesociety.org.uk/explore-the-bible/which-is-the-best-bible-translation/

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“Which Bible Translation is Best?”

The common question of which Bible translation to use is very important—it concerns the most important words ever spoken, the words of God the Creator. It’s crucial to understand at the outset that behind each version is a fundamental philosophy of Bible translation. You want to make sure the version you use reproduces in your own language what God actually said.

Translation Philosophy

You can separate modern Bible translations into two basic groups—formal equivalency and dynamic equivalency. Formal equivalency attempts a word for word rendition, providing as literal a translation as possible. Dynamic equivalency is more like a paraphrase, trying to convey ideas thought by thought.

Since no one language corresponds perfectly to any other language, every translation involves some degree of interpretation. A translation based on formal equivalency has a low degree of interpretation; translators are trying to convey the meaning of each particular word. When faced with a choice between readability and accuracy, formal equivalency translators are willing to sacrifice readability for the sake of accuracy.

By its very nature, a translation based on dynamic equivalency requires a high degree of interpretation. The goal of dynamic equivalency is to make the Bible readable, conveying an idea-for-idea rendering of the original. That means someone must first decide what idea is being communicated, which is the very act of interpretation. How the translators view Scripture becomes extremely important in the final product.

Sadly, there are many in the Bible-translation industry who have a low view of the Scripture. They think the Bible is merely a product of man, replete with mistakes, contradictions, and personal biases. Many translators today have also adopted the postmodern idea of elevating the experience of the reader over the intention of the author. They make the contemporary reader sovereign over the text and demote the intended meaning of the historic human writers who were carried along by one divine author (2 Peter 1:19-21).

Therefore, it’s vital that you find a translation that represents what the Holy Spirit actually said as faithfully as possible. Who’s interested in some contemporary translation committee’s spin on what they think contemporary readers want to read? We want to read what the author intended us to read, which is what the Holy Spirit originally inspired.

Translation Survey

The most popular dynamic-equivalency translations, which dominate the evangelical world, are the New International Version (NIV), Today’s New International Version (TNIV), The Message (MSG), The Living Bible (TLB), the Good News Bible (GNB), and the New Living Translation (NLT). Of those, the NIV is the most reliable.

The NIV was completed in 1978. Its translators did not attempt to translate strictly word for word, but aimed more for equivalent ideas. As a result, the NIV doesn’t follow the exact wording of the original Greek and Hebrew texts as closely as the King James Version and New American Standard Bible versions do. Nevertheless, it can be considered a faithful translation of the original texts, and its lucid readability makes it quite popular, especially for devotional reading.

The four most popular formal equivalency translations in English are the King James Version (KJV), the New King James Version (NKJV), the New American Standard Bible (NASB), and the English Standard Version (ESV).

The KJV is the oldest of the four and continues to be the favorite of many. It is known as the Authorized Version of 1611 because King James I approved the project to create an authoritative English Bible. Although it contains many obsolete words (some of which have changed in meaning), many people appreciate its dignity and majesty. The NKJV is a similar translation, taken from the same group of ancient manuscripts, that simply updates the archaic language of the KJV.

The NASB, completed in 1971 and updated in 1995, is a revision of the American Standard Version of 1901. It is a literal translation from the Hebrew and Greek languages that incorporates the scholarship of several centuries of textual criticism conducted since the original KJV. It quickly became a favorite translation for serious Bible study.

The ESV is the most recent translation, which stands firmly in the formal equivalency tradition. It is a very solid translation in updated language that aims to reproduce the beauty of the KJV. The result is one of the most poetic and beautifully structured versions that maintains a high degree of accuracy and faithfulness to the original languages.

Translation Choice

Which version is the best to use? Ultimately, that choice is up to you. Each of the formal-equivalency versions has strengths and weaknesses, but they are all reliable translations of the Bible. If you want to read a dynamic-equivalency translation, the NIV is the most reliable.

Ideally, as a serious student of Scripture, you should become familiar enough with concordances, word-study aids, and conservative commentaries so that even without a thorough knowledge of the original languages, you can explore the nuances of meaning that arise out of the original texts.

[ John MacArthur ]

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“Is the NIV a Corrupt Bible Translation and the KJV the only “Inspired” Translation?”

Is the NIV a corrupt translation? Is the KJV the ONLY acceptable “inspired” translation to read from? Have verses actually been removed from the NIV and other modern translations? In this video I give you 8 facts about modern translations as they compare to the KJV and my thoughts on the different translations.

[ Allen Parr ]

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ns-SWo0d77k

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“The Dead Sea Scrolls”

Why are the Dead Sea Scrolls so important to the study of the Bible? Learn why with Dr. James Fleming on the show Christ in Prophecy.

[ Christ in Prophecy ]

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmk72uJVnTA

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“The Importance of Bible Prophecy”

Is Bible prophecy vital to our Christian faith? Find out with Dr. David Reagan on the show Christ in Prophecy.

[ Christ in Prophecy ]

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_T-XIY7jQ4

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“How do I defend the Bible?”

Ravi Zacharias answers a question from a student at the University of Illinois about defending the Bible.

[ Ravi Zacharias ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1u5cXb4zHbM

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“Is the Bible really True?”

First, the Bible is true because it gives us the experience it claims it will. For example, the Bible says God will forgive our sin (1 John 1:9). I believe that, and I can truly say that I have a sense of freedom from guilt. The Bible also says that “if any man is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come” (2 Corinthians 5:17 ). That’s what happened to me when I came to Jesus Christ. The Bible changes lives. Someone has said that a Bible that’s falling apart usually belongs to someone who isn’t. That’s true because the Bible can put lives together. Millions of people all over the world are living proof that that is true. Maybe you know one or two of them. They’ve experienced the Bible’s power.

[ John MacArthur ]

Q&A: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1FeJdSyghrs

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“The Bible Is True Because the Bible Says It’s True?”

[ WWUTT ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Io4KUywmh4

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“SCIENCE PROVES THE BIBLE IS TRUE–THE BIBLE IS COMPLETELY, SCIENTIFICALLY, INCREDIBLY ACCURATE”

[ John Barnett ]

Sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1InKigUaag

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“M.A.P.S.”

To help you investigate the reliability of the Bible, Bible scholar, Hank Hanegraff , developed the acronym, M-A-P-S (since most Bibles have “maps” at the back of them). It stands for: Manuscripts/ Archaeology/ Prophecy/ Statistical Probability. The following is a summary of what he has proposed. [ Entire PDF here: http://www.equip.org/PDF/DB011.pdf ].

– Manuscripts: Accurate copies; Dead Sea Scrolls found in 1947, and the portion of Isaiah 53 found was dated to be written in 100BC compared to oldest fragment they had before this which was dated 900AD—there are 166 words in the passage (about 1,000 letters) and only 17 are different—14 for spelling (like the difference between the word honor and honour), and 3 for the word “light” which does not change the meaning of the text at all; Old Testament scribes counted lines, words, and letters on every page (each Hebrew letter has a value), and would burn the ones with even one mistake; For ancient documents, the more copies the better—the New Testament has over 8,000 Latin and 5,000 Greek manuscripts—overwhelmingly superior to any other ancient document (we have only 10 copies of Caesar’s “Gaelic Wars” and the earliest copy is 1,000 years after it was written); The New Testament has over 5,000 copies dating to within 40-60 years of the originals (simply not enough time for myths to propagate since too many eyewitnesses were still around).

– Archaeology: Solidly confirms the Bible’s accuracy; (example: the Hittites are only mentioned in Bible—monuments and clay tablets have been recently found) Never has there been an archeological discovery that has ever controverted a Biblical reference (Nelson Glueck); Sir William Ramsay set out to disprove Bible, but became a Christian because of the evidence he found.

– Prophecy: Predictions made 500-1,500 years ahead of time (example: the destruction of Tyre by Ezekiel was written 200 years before it happened—King Nebuchadnezzar destroyed mainland city within 15 years, and Alexander the Great threw the debris into the water to form a causeway to destroy the island—finishing the ‘job’); Eventual return of the Jewish people and re-creation of their nation; Isaiah wrote about crucifixion of Christ 700 years before hand and crucifixion was not even a method used at that time; Isaiah also talks about details like gambling for Jesus’ garments; There are over 300 specific prophecies about Jesus that have come to pass.

– Statistical Probability: Written over 1,500 year period by 40 different people in 3 different languages on hundreds of subjects—and it has one consistent non-contradictory theme throughout; No errors have ever been found; God had to have ‘superintended’ it—the unity of it all is shocking; Ask yourself this: suppose you put all the writings of medical subjects together for the last 1,500 years—would it be a unified whole or a chaotic mess? Now, take 40 journalist students from the same culture and the same language and ask them to write on the same subjects the Bible covers—Do you think it would be a ‘harmonized’ masterpiece?

Those few ‘proofs’ are definitely pretty comprehensive, and for those who would like to do more in-depth study, there’s other books about the Bible’s reliability listed in the “Resources” section below. [ I did a substantial amount of study on the ‘veracity’ of Scripture, so contact me if you are interested in additional resources ].

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“EVIDENCE OF BIBLICAL PROPHECY”

GROUNDING THE NEXT GENERATION IN THE BOOK THEY CAN TRUST! We are in our six weeks of teaching courses here along the Pacific Rim and are rejoicing in the response to this course on BIBLIOLOGY. We are covering the seven reasons God’s Word can be trusted. Please pray for many deeply impacted lives. What is the simplest and yet most profound evidence the Bible offers? Fulfilled Biblical prophecy. What an irrefutable verification reserved to the Judeo-Christian Scriptures alone. Prophecy is the missing element in all other sacred scriptures of the world’s religions, It is not to be found in them, by contrast, prophecy comprises about one-third of the Scriptures!

[ John Barnett ]

Sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EdTVFxqx7YQ

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“Evidence That Demands A Verdict”

How do you know the scriptures are accurate? Explore the answers in the completely revised and updated edition of Evidence That Demands a Verdict. Discover the #TrueEvidence of biblical accuracy.

Series: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4sTW4-YO8I&list=PLG1Vw3N94xzObCIpo1VILHPxguJRgZJC3

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“Lee Strobel – The Case for Christ”

Lee Strobel spent two years of his life studying, researching, learning everything he could in order to disprove the resurrection and deity of Christ. What he found instead changed his life forever.
–
This week, Lee Strobel takes us through the four main points he found that shifted his mind and heart about the truth surrounding the resurrection of Jesus.

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67uj2qvQi_k

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“The Dead Sea Scrolls”

Why are the Dead Sea Scrolls so important to the study of the Bible? Learn why with Dr. James Fleming on the show Christ in Prophecy.

[ Christ in Prophecy ]

Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmk72uJVnTA

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“Endgame”

Since the beginning of time, God has had an agenda for the human race. He has an endgame for all of us. In fact, you could really give the Bible a one-word title and just call it “endgame”, but of course even the word “endgame” begs a beginning and a middle because every story has those three components – a beginning, a middle and an end. The story of the Bible and in fact God’s story for you has the same three components.

[ James Merritt ]

Sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4rKIU7_XCQk

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“This is the Greatest Book on Earth”

This is the greatest Book on earth;
Unparalleled, it stands;
It’s Author God, it’s truth divine,
Inspired in every word and line,
Tho’ writ by human hand.
This is the volume of the Cross;
It’s saving truth is sure;
It’s doctrine pure, it’s history true,
It’s Gospel old, but ever new,
Shall ever more endure.

And this blessed Book I’d rather own,
Than all the gold and gems
In ever a monarch’s coffer’s shown,
And all their diadems.
Nay, were the sea a chrysolite,
And the earth a golden ball,
And diamonds all the stars of night,
This Book would be worth them all.

For no soul ever found relief,
In glittering hoards of wealth.
Gems dazzle not the eye of grief;
Gold cannot purchase health.
But herein a perfect balm appears,
That heals the deepest woe;
And those who read this Book in tears,
Their tears will cease to flow.

For feelings come and feelings go,
But feelings are deceiving.
That’s why my warrant’s the Word of God,
Naught else is worth believing.

And tho’ my heart should feel contemned,
For want of some small, sweet token;
There is One Who’s greater than my heart;
Whose Word can ne’er be broken.
And so I’ll trust in God’s unchanging Word,
Till soul and body sever;
For tho’ all things shall pass away,
God’s Word shall stand forever.

For you see, I find my Lord in the Bible,
Wherever I chance to look.
He is the theme of the Bible;
The center, the heart of the Book.

He’s in the Book’s beginning;
He gave to earth its form;
And He is the ark of shelter,
Bearing the brunt of the storm.
The ram upon Mount Moriah;
The ladder from earth to sky;
The scarlet cord in the window;
The serpent lifted high;
The burning bush in the desert;
The budding of Aaron’s rod;
Wherever I open my Bible,
I see the Son of God.

He is the seed of woman,
The Saviour virgin born;
He is the Son of David;
Who men rejected with scorn.
His garments of grace and beauty;
The stately Aaronic deck;
And He is a priest forever,
For He is Melchisedek.

The Lord of eternal glory,
Whom John the Apostle saw;
The light of that golden city,
The Lamb without spot or flaw.
The Bridegroom coming at midnight
For whom we His people look;
Wherever I open my Bible,
I see my Lord in the Book.

[ Author unknown ]

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SONGS:

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“Love Letters”

Love letters straight from your heart
keep us so near while apart
I’m not alone in the night
when I can have all the love you write

I memorize ev’ry line
and I kiss the name that you sign
and darlin, then I read again
right from the start
love letters straight, from your heart

I memorize ev’ry line
and I kiss the name that you sign
and darlin, then I read again
right from the start
love letters straight, from your heart

[ Elvis Presley ]

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4R0f3fAXEk

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“Love Letter”

[ Donnie McCune and Steve Stickler ]

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jI7KoQgD1h4

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“Love Letter”

[ Answers In Genesis ]

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5nYG91cY4g0

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“Living for Jesus”

Living for Jesus, a life that is true,
Striving to please Him in all that I do;
Yielding allegiance, glad-hearted and free,
This is the pathway of blessing for me.

Refrain:
O Jesus, Lord and Savior, I give myself to Thee,
For Thou, in Thy atonement, didst give Thyself for me;
I own no other Master, my heart shall be Thy throne;
My life I give, henceforth to live, O Christ, for Thee alone.

Living for Jesus Who died in my place,
Bearing on Calv’ry my sin and disgrace;
Such love constrains me to answer His call,
Follow His leading and give Him my all.

Living for Jesus, wherever I am,
Doing each duty in His holy Name;
Willing to suffer affliction and loss,
Deeming each trial a part of my cross.

Living for Jesus through earth’s little while,
My dearest treasure, the light of His smile;
Seeking the lost ones He died to redeem,
Bringing the weary to find rest in Him.

[ Thomas O. Chisholm ]

Choir: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12Tww_FPth

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“Basic Instructions”
(B.I.B.L.E – Basic Instruction Before Leaving Earth)

Basic Instructions before leaving earth…
For God so much loved the world,
That He gave His one and only Son.
That whoever believeth in Him
Shall not die but live on.

Living on…
Through the Son
Peace almighty
Living on,
Let your heart go
To the one.

Yes the road is narrow.
Yes the road is tough.
But whoever remaineth in Him
Shall not die, but lift up.
Basic Instructions before leaving earth.

[ Burlap to Cashmere – “Anybody Out There?” album ]

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fq39DiRybMQ

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APOLOGETIX SONGS

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“(Check Out) The Book”
(Parody of: “The Look” by Roxette)

God has got a plan, and He always had it
He’s revealed it to man – very, very simple
If you wanna find out – check out the Book
Heaven is found in between the covers
Take a look around; is there any other
Book that’s like the Bible? Check out the Book
Check out the Book, Check out the Book
How can the world just say the Bible isn’t true
They never think to read the Book the whole way through But we say, na na na na … Check out the book! Existentialist people’ve never read it
But there’s just one way,
So they reach a dead end
Should have got the map out – check out the Book
Make your arguments, but I recommend
Before you take your stance, make sure that you’ve read it Study for the test, man – check out the Book
Try to understand: you can go to Heaven
It’s a sure-fire plan, guaranteed forever
What are you afraid of? Check out the Book

[ ApologetiX – “Radical History Tour” album ]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-vu8m4yQIMQ

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“All My Letters”
(Parody of “All My Loving” performed by The Beatles)

Romans and both Corinthians
Galatians, Ephesians
Philippians, Colossians, and two
Thessalonians to read
And then both Timothys
And then Titus, Philemon, Hebrews
I will send to all Christians
The letters I have written
In hopes that you’ll read them all through
And then while I’m away
You’ll find hope every day
‘Cause I’ve sent all My letters to you

All My letters I will send to you
All My letters — spelling out the truth
Go from James and both Peters
To John who has three there
Remember the small one from Jude
And then while I’m away
You’ll find hope every day
‘Cause I’ve sent all My letters to you

All My letters I will send to you
All My letters — Romans down through Jude
All My letters
All My letters — woo hoo
All my letters — I will send to you

2 Peter 3:16
He writes the same way in all his letters, speaking in them of these matters. His letters contain some things that are hard to understand, which ignorant and unstable people distort, as they do the other Scriptures, to their own destruction.

[ ApologetiX – “Braggadocious” album ]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aijduDHOE8w

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“Good News Bookie”
(Parody of: “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” by Brooks & Dunn)

Across the country in every city of any size
Well, there’s a hotel room with a Gideon’s Bible
The drawer gets opened and a Bible is always found
It’s got history, wisdom, music and poems
It’s where you can find some hope ‘cause it’s a Good News Bookie
We got a good God, He ain’t hard to discover
When I get a Bible, I read it cover to cover
I find me that big black book and get the Lord’s advice
If you’re tryin’ to find the way, read it right away
Plop down with the book – read the Good News Bookie
Whoa! Years ago, don’t ya know God almighty wrote the Good News
Whoa! Bible is fact, Jack, and it’s gonna outlast those other books
Whoa! It’s found all around every town – Good News Bookie
My friend just asked me, he said, “John, what about me?
“I want a copy of that leather-bonded bookie that you read
“I just was wonderin’ if they got it in the stores you can buy”
I said, “It outsells every other book on the street
“But I’ve got one you can keep. Here’s a Good News Bookie!”
Whoa! Years ago, don’t ya know God almighty wrote the Good News
Whoa! Grab a little black book, it could change your outlook, you know it could Whoa! Get saved! Turn the page! Go and pray! Good News Bookie
REPEAT FIRST CHORUS

[ Apologetix – “New and Used Hits” album ]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ya0khFQPxBQ

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“Scripture”
(Parody of: “Picture” by Kid Rock & Sheryl Crow)

Livin’ my life like there’s no hell
In the drawer there’s a Bible at the hotel
I can see it’s some kind of pre-planned place
Been fool enough to go play it risky
Wish I thought the Good Lord would miss me
Lord, I wonder what You meant by “saved by grace”
I put Your scripture away, stopped tryin’ to find the way
I can’t look for truth while I’m lyin’ – that’s the worst
I put Your scripture away, I know that crime don’t pay
I can’t look at truth now I’m cryin’ – yes, it hurts
I called you last night in the hotel
Everyone goes through their slow spells
But your half-started Bible has something you just can’t deny It’s been written for you for a long time
You just have to start it and keep tryin’
That ain’t hard if you can read and write
I put the scriptures in place, I wrote the words within
I left the Book for you so you’d find it, and you did
Don’t put My scriptures away – I don’t care where you’ve been I said the Book is true, why not try it? Let me in!
I saw you just today with it open
It was the strangest thing how it happened
Since You called, God, my world’s been startin’ to change (Since you called God, your world’s been startin’ to change)
I decided to read the Bible today
The quotes started jumpin’ off the page
When they read it in church
I was often sleeping away
I’ve thought about you for a long time
It seems as if You read my mind
(It seems as if you read My mind)
That’s because the Scriptures are livin’, like they say
I finally picked up today
(I’m glad you picked up today)
God’s Word and changed my ways
(My Word and changed your ways)
I just called Your name I want to come back home
(I just called your name I want you to come back home)
I just called Your name I want to come back home
(I just called your name I want you to come back home)

[ ApologetiX – “Apol-acoustiX” album ]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbKuMSG8Z6g

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“La Bible”
(Parody of “La Bamba” by Ritchie Valens)

Follow along in the Bible
Follow along in the Bible
You’ll never read any book that is better
Genesis, Exodus and Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy
Joshua, Judges and Ruth
Then 1 & 2
Samuel and Kings and Chronicles
Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther
And then Job, Psalms and Proverbs
Ecclesiastes and Song of Solomon, Song of Solomon
Then Isaiah
Jeremiah
Lamentations – uh huh
Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea
Joel, Amos and Obadiah
And Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk and
Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah and
After these there’s Malachi
LEAD
Matthew, Mark, Luke and John-a
Acts of the Apostles and Romans
1,2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians
Philippians, Colossians, 1,2 Thessalonians
and 1,2 Timothy
Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James, 1,2 Peter
1,2,3 John
Jude, Rev’lation
That’s the Bible
I like Bible
Try my Bible
Bye Bye Bible

[ ApologetiX – “Spoofernatural” album ]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Uwm6EQ-waE

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“Mediterranean Wholebook News”
(Parody of “Subterranean Homesick Blues” by Bob Dylan)

Genesis and Exodus, then you got Leviticus
Numbers, Deuteronomy, then here’s where you’re gonna be
Josh-U-a, Judges, Ruth, and then you got a bunch of twos
First and Second Samuel, a pair of Kings and Chronicles
Look out, kids, we’re startin’ a list, God knows best and put Ezra next
He’s got Nehemiah, Esther, Job and Psalms and Proverbs
And then there’s Ecclesiastes with the Preacher
And the Song of Solomon and you’ve only done a third
Maybe you don’t know it but there’s a lot of prophets
Talkin’ about Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations
It’s Jeremiah’s sequel, followed by Ezekiel
Daniel and Hosea, Joel, oy, such a deal!
Look out, kids, there’s plenty more than this
Like Amos, Obadiah, the famous Jonah, Micah
Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai & Zechariah
Then there’s Malachi and 400 years of quiet
We’re done with the Old Testament there ain’t no book of Hezekiah
Oh, Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts, Romans, 1, 2
CORinthians YOU’RE in the Testament we call the New
GALatians SALvation Ephesians says it’s by grace and
It’s in Philippians, Colossians are you listenin’
Look out next and 1 & 2 Thess
-Alonians, and both Timothys, and Titus, oh, man
Then you got Philemon
When you finally roll through the Book they call the Hebrews
James oughta be there and First and Second Peter
Oh, First John, Second John, Third John, roll on
Jude is next to last and yes we’re finally at 66
Revelation and this conversation is done but
20 years of schoolin’ ain’t as good an education
Look out, kids, and read down the list
Better hunt down a Bible get yourself an eyeful
Pretty soon your liable to start your own revival
Don’t only read it once – you’d better keep on
It’s God’s own Word and He likes His book recycled

[ ApologetiX – “Apol-acoustiX” album ]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FRDAI3uRcZc

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“Lotsa Versions”
(Parody of “Like a Virgin” by Madonna)

I went onto the Internet
For Bible-reading group
Did you know there’s a lot of versions
It’s alphabet soup
NIV, NLT
NAS and ESV, too
Well, it made me feel
Yeah, it made me feel
Kinda confused

Lotsa versions
Watch for the various kinds
Lotsa versions
When you start to read, if you find

You wanna get them all at once, boy
Now here’s a place for that
BibleGateway is awesome, dude
And BibleHub’s a blast
Yes, you’ll find, them online
They’re dot coms
Yeah, they made me bold
‘Cause they left no doubt
That the Lord’s Word now
Wasn’t dead and cold

Lotsa versions – hey
But they sorted every verse line
Lotsa versions – if it’s hard to read, check a few kinds

Yes, you’ll find it’s divine
It endures till the end of time
And it may seem weird
But they made things clear
With dozens of kinds

Lotsa versions – hey, but that’s a very good sign
Lotsa versions – lets you always check each line
Lotsa versions – ooh ooh ooh ooh – lotsa versions
King James wouldn’t mind
When you start to read
And it’s hard to read
Take it from me

[ ApologetiX – “Quilt” album ]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u92GbUH-SCA

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“People Are Lazy”
(Parody of: “People Are Crazy” by Billy Currington)

This old man and me
Were at the barber and we
We had him cut our hairs
And watched some NASCAR there
He talked of politics
With lots of rhetoric
I told him, I’m a Christian – I have a wife and kids
I talked about God’s grace
Then why’s there Hell, he raged
And why on earth aren’t all men saved?
And I said,
God has made it clear in His book, but people are lazy
He said, I’m not too sure
If there is any Lord
What makes you His disciple?
I said I’ve read the Bible
It taught me how the truth
Is never far from you,
What all we shouldn’t do,
And how to be born anew
I squandered life till then
In blissful ignorance
So please don’t think I’m silly, friend
When I say,
God has made it clear in His book, but people are lazy
NASCAR was due to end
I read the Bible with him
And then I stopped at Romans 10
And in God’s funny way
I saw the whole plan change
From being a bit too hairy
I was a missionary
We read Ephesians 2
Saw lines he never knew
Said, Kid, you’ve read it well
But, me, I’m going to hell
But I got wise today
So if you think we can pray
Then I’d like to fix that right here – I need saved
‘Cause I see
God has made it clear in His book but people are lazy
‘Cause God has made it clear in His book that Jesus can save me God has made it clear in His book but people are lazy

[ ApologetiX – “Soundproof” album ]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JAeumKM1HuY

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“Read Ephesians”
(Parody of: “Sweet Emotion” by Aerosmith)

Read Ephesians, Read Ephesians
Talk about things I know God prepares
Spiritual things that your body wears
Call ‘em by name, but I gotta make clear
You can’t stand baby if you leave ‘em in here
One piece of the armor is a plate of righteousness
It’s a get-up that goes up on top of your chest
And your Gospel shoes, these are real good tires
And the belt of truth to get your pants up higher
Read Ephesians, Read Ephesians
You put on the salvation helmet to start
But the devil overtook you with his little cruel darts
Your shield of faith keeps them from goin’ inside
They can’t touch you if you have it on tight
Stand then firm ‘cause when Satan attacks
I think you better pray, did ya think about that
The Word of God’s somethin’ that’s a sword on your hand And He wants you to know it and to read and understand Read Ephesians, Read Ephesians

[ ApologetiX – “The Boys Aren’t Backin’ Down” album ]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOJJc22kJIU

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“Back in the New Testament”
(Parody of: “Back in the U.S.S.R.” by The Beatles)

Ooh I finally finished readin’ the O-L-D
Hebrew Testament last night
All the way I prayed that God would have mercy
Man, I’m glad that we’ve got Christ
I’m back in the New Testament
You don’t know what you got till it’s gone, boy
Back in the New Testament
Genesis was long – I hardly noticed it
Gee, it didn’t seem that long
Three weeks later on I’m stuck in Exodus
Wonderin’ what the heck went wrong
I’m back in the New Testament
With Matthew, Mark, Luke and then John, boy
Acts of the Apostles, next the Epistles
Last the Apocalypse of John
Well, the Jewish laws came from God’s own mouth Please don’t get me wrong
But God’s own Son came to live ‘em out
He told us that in Ma-ma-matthew 5 verse 17 all along I’m back in the New Testament
We’re only half done with this song, boy
Back in the New Testament
Well, you can’t have Jesus Christ without
The Old Testament
The Law was given to point sin out
And lead us all to Christ – Galatians 3:24-25, my oh my Moses’ laws, the Psalms and Prophets they all count Take them as your Daddy’s word
Genesis through Malachi – I read them all
But admit that I prefer
To be back in the New Testament
You don’t know what you got till it’s gone, boy
Back in the New Testament

[ ApologetiX – “Wordplay” album ]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZY_S2fujSis

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“Bible In Hand”
(Parody of: “Travelin’ Band” by Creedence Clearwater Revival)

See the Lord in Heaven’s comin’ out of the sky
Well, He said He’d come to get us and He did not lie
You gotta move
Prayin’ with a Bible in hand, yeah
Well, it’s time for Christ to land
Find Him while you can
Prayin’ with a Bible in hand
Let me do a show and tell
I ain’t gonna go to hell
C’mon, c’mon, won’t you let me tell the truth
You gotta move
Prayin’ with a Bible in hand, yeah
Well, it’s time for Christ to land
Try to understand
Prayin’ with a Bible in hand
Listen’ to the way to go
Talkin’ to all the lost souls
Come to God through Christ you gotta call His name and listen Gotta move
Prayin’ with a Bible in hand, yeah
Well, it’s time for Christ to land
Try to understand
Prayin’ with a Bible in hand
LEAD
He will come again like a thief in the night
Will you finally recognize Him – will you get that we were right? You gotta move
Prayin’ with a Bible in hand
Well, it’s time for Christ to land
Find Him while you can
Prayin’ with a Bible in hand
Whoa!
SECOND LEAD
Whoa! Prayin’ with a Bible in hand
Prayin’ with a Bible in hand
Find Him while you’ve still got a chance
Prayin’ with a Bible in hand
Well, the time is close at hand
Find Him while you can
Prayin’ with a Bible in hand
Whoa!

[ ApologetiX – “The Boys Aren’t Backin’ Down” album ]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iA3dfdfB3E8

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“Little-Read Bible Book”
(Parody of: “Lil’ Red Riding Hood” by Sam the Sham & the Pharaohs)

Who’s that I see not doin’ any good?
Why it’s a little-read Bible book!
Hey there, little-read Bible book, you sure have been forsook You’re never read, so big bad wolves can roam. Literally! Little-read Bible book, I don’t think many people look
So we’re walkin’ in and making ourselves at home
Owwr! What big lies we have!
We come as spies disguised as lambs
But if they’d read just an open page
I think they all could spot the wolves far away
What truth Scripture has! It’s sure to warn if someone’s bad So before they understand God’s grace
I think I ought to lock you up in a safe
I’m gonna keep my sheep suit on
And I’ll assure them nothing’s wrong
And you can get dusty and they all can leave you alone Owwr! Little-read Bible book, I’d like to quote you, yes I would But first I’ll change me a thing or two on my own
Owwr! What if these parts I add
A word or two, nothing big
Little-read Bible book – even bad news can seem good
I’ll try a little cyanide, just enough to slide on by
Maybe they’ll swallow things I say
Before they get to that odd taste
Little-read Bible book, I’m sure their goose is cooked
They never read in the big black book at all
Owwr! That’s too bad – Baaad

[ ApologetiX – “Adam Up” album ]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pSJnDhgWXnY

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“I Found the Answer There”
(Parody of: “I Saw Her Standing There” by The Beatles)

Well in Acts 17, there were some folks known as Bereans And they searched the Scriptures daily to compare.
How they could know truth from error
Ohh, and they found the answer there.
Well 1 Peter chapter 3, says we should play steady “D” and make a good defense to anyone who cares.
Why we have hope in the future
Ohh, and they found the answer there.
Well now Hebrews 4, says it’s like a sword, but the Word of God is alive. Well, Saint Paul ain’t no liar, he said all Scripture is inspired.
And profitable to teach, reprove, and correct error
That’s what he wrote in my Bible
Ohh, and I found the answer there.
LEAD
Well, Saint Paul ain’t no liar, he said all Scripture is inspired.
And profitable to teach, reprove, and correct error
That’s what he wrote in my Bible, Ohh, and I found the answer there. You can find the answer there.
Well I saw the answer there.

[ ApologetiX – “Isn’t Wasn’t Ain’t” album ]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWZjwv9VA9U

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“Flirting’ With The Pastor”
(Parody of: “Flirtin’ with Disaster” by Molly Hatchet)

I’m baffled by the folks who like flirtin’ with the pastor
It’s hard to get ‘em through the door and they’re hardly comin’ after They’re out of money, passed the buck when he took up a collection Well, how much more must they make before God gets a fraction?

They’re flirtin’ with the pastor, but they’ll go when in need And then they run and hide till Easter and Christmas Eve They got a Bible on the shelf but when they gonna read it? They can’t commit time they do for lesser things

They’d rather lay down in their cozy homes He’s still tryin’ to drag ‘em to Heaven though They’re not tryin’ to turn that reverend gray Seems like they may though anyway
(You know what I’m talkin’ about, maybe?)

Sneakin’ out on the pastor on Sunday the faithful go ‘round and ‘round If they don’t like his sermons enough they leave and go crosstown They want the best in troubadours and they like their funny laughter And other guys just stay in bed and they wait for the hereafter

Flirtin’ with the pastor, y’all, I ain’t sure they know what they need You know the way they run and hide till Easter and Christmas Eve They got a Bible on the shelf but when they plan to read it?
You can’t just live your life through dudes on Christian TV

They’d rather lay down in their home sweet homes He’s still tryin’ to drag ‘em to Heaven though Though they might return but never stay
They’re flirtin’ with the pastor anyway
(And you are too maybe) (He’s prayin’ for everybody)
LEAD

Flirtin’ with the pastor, babe, they ain’t sure what they need
You know the way they run and hide till Easter and Christmas Eve They got a Bible on the shelf but when they plan to read it?
They cram for this just like they do for SATs

They’d rather lay down in their cozy homes
He’s still tryin’ to drag ‘em to Heaven though Though the guy’s been burned by them, he prays There’s certain things a pastor can’t forsake

[ ApologetiX – “Singles Group” album ]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_ZvLwYYXy8

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“Let’s All Praise”
(Parody of “Dance Hall Days” performed by Wang Chung and written by Jack Hues)

Take your great big Bible and
It takes you to the Promised Land
And take your great big Bible here
And you can lick things that you fear

In the Psalms it says
Let the bands all praise
We were schooled on grace
When I, you, and everyone reads through
And believes, too — we share in our God’s truth
I said
Let’s all praise now

Take a great big Bible dare
And pull out quotes that’s why they’re there
And take and say things nice and clear
And lay it on their hearts and ears

In the Psalms it says
Let the bands all praise
We were schooled on grace
When I, you, and everyone reads through
And believes, too — we share in our God’s truth
I said
Let’s all praise now
Let’s all praise
Let’s all praise now

Take a great big Bible risk
And with your mouth proclaim all this
And then you might just suffer, too
But you need heard — His sheep need you
But you need heard — His sheep need you
But you need heard — His sheep need you
But you need heard — His sheep need you
But you need heard
His sheep need you

In the Psalms it says
Let the bands all praise
We were schooled on grace
When I, you, and everyone reads through
And believes, too — we share in our God’s truth
I said
Let’s all praise now

Let’s all praise now
Let’s all praise

Let’s all praise now
Let’s all praise

Let’s all praise now
Let’s all praise

Let’s all praise now

Psalm 150:6
Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord.

[ ApologetiX – “Braggadocious” album ]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiyIJtuj2tQ

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“Message in the Bible”
(Parody of “Message in a Bottle” by the Police)

Oh! There’s a vast array of idle philosophies, oh
They want to know the way, but no one’s here but Me, though
More holiness than any man could bear
Yes, you see the door to follow through is narrow

I’ll send My S-o-n to the world
I’ll send My S-o-n to the world
I hope that someone gets My
I hope that some will get My
I know that some will get My
Message in the Bible, yeah
Message in the Bible, yeah

The years have passed since I wrote My quotes
I sent them notice right from the start
The Holy Ghost can teach them the rest, though
Let Him in your life, illuminate your heart

I’ll send My S-o-n to the world
I’ll send My S-o-n to the world
I hope that someone gets My
I hope that some will get My
I know that some will get My
Message in the Bible, yeah
Message in the Bible, yeah
Ohhhhh, message in the Bible, yeah
Message in the Bible, yeah

Wrote down these warnings – they don’t believe in My Law
100 million Bibles tossed out and ignored
Seems a lot of folks are reading it, though
And it will not pass away – look there for some hope

I’ll send My S-o-n to the world
I’ll send My S-o-n to the world
I hope that someone gets My
I hope that some will get My
I know that some will get My
Message in the Bible, yeah
Message in the Bible, whoa
Message in the Bible, whoa
Message in the Bible, yeah
Sending down My S-o-n
Sending down My S-o-n
I’m sending down My S-o-n
I’m sending down My S-o-n
I’m sending down My S-o-n
I’m sending down My S-o-n
Sending down My S-o-n
Sending down My S-o-n

[ ApologetiX – “Only a Glorified Cover Band” album ]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WYHaY0BnXAs

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“I Wanna Read the Bible”
(Parody of: “I Wanna Be Sedated” by The Ramones)

Twenty twenty twenty-four hours or more I wanna read the Bible
Old Testament don’t have to be a chore
I wanna read the Bible
It’s just Genesis, and Exodus, Leviticus again Numbers, Deuteronomy and Joshua and then Judges, Ruth and First and Second Samuel makes 10 Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh!
Twenty twenty twenty-four hours or more I wanna read the Bible
Old Testament don’t have to be a bore
I wanna read the Bible
It’s just First and Second Kings
And First and Second Chronicles
Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther and the book of Job Psalms and Proverbs and Ecclesiastes
And Song of Songs of Solomon
Twenty twenty twenty-four hours or more
I wanna read the Bible
Old Testament don’t have to be ignored
I wanna read the Bible
It’s Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations and Ezekiel Daniel and Hosea, Joel and Amos, Obadiah Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk and Zephaniah Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi-yi-yi-yi
Bi-Bi-Bi-Bible
Bi-Bi-Bi-Bible … I wanna read the Bible Bi-Bi-Bi-Bible
Bi-Bi-Bi-Bible … I wanna read the Bible Bi-Bi-Bi-Bible
Bi-Bi-Bi-Bible … I wanna read the Bible Bi-Bi-Bi-Bible
Bi-Bi-Bi-Bible … I do believe we made it!

[ ApologetiX – “Rare, Not Well Done” album ]

http://www.spiritedesign.com/I_Wanna_Read_the_Bible(ApologetiX).mp3

 

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DEEP THOUGHTS:

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“Love can be expressed in a myriad of different methods, but the most timeless and most treasured will always remain the classic love letter.”
[ Auliq Ice ]

“Nothing is as endearing as a handwritten letter scribed by the person who holds your heart spellbound.”
[ Alfa H ]

“The frankest and freest and privatest product of the human mind and heart is a love letter…”
[ Mark Twain ]

“I never knew before, what such a love as you have made me feel, was; I did not believe in it; my Fancy was afraid of it, lest it should burn me up. But if you will fully love me, though there may be some fire, ’twill not be more than we can bear when moistened and bedewed with Pleasures.”
[ John Keats ]

“A love letter can be very short or it can be long; it can be literary or non-literary; it can be bright or dark, cheerful or tragic. But above all, for a love letter to be a love letter it must be sincere!”
[ Mehmet Murat ildan ]

“When you have nothing to offer, love gives abundantly.”
[ E’yen A. Gardner ]

“I didn’t mean to send love letters, but that is what they became. On their way to you, my words turned into heartbeats on the page.”
[ Lisa Kleypas ]

“Lover of love. I adore love letters, and professions of love, and true, heartfelt moments when two people know they’re meant for each other.”
[ Lauren Blakely ]

“She’s a love letter girl in an email world.”
[ Nitya Prakash ]

“Within the covers of the Bible are the answers for all the problems men face.”
[ Ronald Reagan ]

“A Bible that’s falling apart usually belongs to a person that isn’t.”
[ Charles Spurgeon]

“Imagine a lover who has received a letter from his beloved–I assume that God’s Word is just as precious to you as this letter is to the lover. I assume that you read and think you ought to read God’s Word in the same way that the lover reads this letter.”
[ Søren Kierkegaard ]

“Give me the plenary verbal theory of biblical inspiration with all of its difficulties rather than the doubt. I accept the difficulties and humbly wait for the resolution but while I wait, I am standing on the rock.”
[ J.C. Ryle ]

“People without God are hopelessly lost. They’re like a blind man in a dark room, looking for a black cat that’s not there.”
[ James Merritt ].

“Our Father, we thank You that You have spoken and that You have spoken in ways that even a wayfaring man can understand. We thank You for the perspicuity and the clarity and the lucidness of this book. We thank You that You have had it recorded by prophets of old and apostles, and that it contains the message of Your glory and Your grace and Your salvation that has been made known to us. Let us not build upon the shifting sand of men’s opinions and opinion polls of this world. Let us build upon the solid rock of divine revelation as revealed in this book. Father, would You open the windows of heaven and pour out Your blessing upon these many people who are gathered here today. May you make them strong in their faith in the message of the Word of God. Father we pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.”
[ Steven Lawson ]

“When our body needs energy, we eat food. But when our soul needs hope, what do we feed it? Promises…. Our souls are designed to be nourished by God’s “precious and very great promises” (2 Peter 1:4).”
[ Jon Bloom ]

“You can try to find a way around the Scripture but the scripture will find its way around you… This is the self attesting word. This is the Word which when heard reveals itself as the Word of God. So, you could try to find your way around Romans chapter one with three hundred pages of clever, but when you get up and the text is actually read, you’re gonna lose and the text is gonna win. And we also believe that the text is not alone. It is accompanied by the very Holy Spirit, Who interpreted it such as that in life of believers and those in whom God is working. In their ears they hear the Scripture.Ttheir ears are open and their eyes are opened.”
[ Albert Mohler ]

“Sir, more than kisses, letters mingle souls,
For thus, friends absent speak. This ease controls
The tediousness of my life; but for these
I could ideate nothing which could please,
But I should wither in one day and pass
To a bottle of hay, that am a lock of grass.
Life is a voyage, and in our lives’ ways
Countries, courts, towns are rocks, or remoras;
They break or stop all ships, yet our state’s such,
That, though than pitch they stain worse, we must touch.
If in the furnace of the raging Line,
Or under th’ adverse icy Pole thou pine,
Thou know’st two temperate regions, girded in,
Dwell there; but oh! what refuge canst thou win
Parched in the court and in the country frozen?
Shall cities built of both extremes be chosen?
Can dung or garlic be perfume? Or can
A scorpion or torpedo cure a man?
Cities are worst of all three; of all three
(Oh knotty riddle) each is worst equally.
Cities are sepulchres; they who dwell there
Are carcasses, as if no such they were;
And courts are theatres, where some men play
Princes, some slaves, all to one end, of one clay.
The country is a desert, where no good
Gained as habits, not born, is understood;
There men become beasts and prone to all evils;
In cities, blocks; and in a lewd court, devils.
As in the first Chaos confusedly,
Each element’s qualities were in the other three,
So pride, lust, covetise, being several
To these three places, yet all are in all,
And mingled thus, their issue is incestuous:
Falsehood is denizen’d; Virtue is barbarous.
Let no man say there, “Virtue’s flinty wall
Shall lock vice in me; I’ll do none, but know all.”
Men are sponges, which, to pour out, receive;
Who know false play, rather than lose, deceive.
For in best understandings sin began;
Angels sinned first, then devils, and then man.
Only perchance beasts sin not; wretched we
Are beasts in all but white integrity.
I think if men, which in these places live,
Durst look in themselves, and themselves retrieve,
They would like strangers greet themselves, seeing then
Utopian youth grown old Italian.
Be then thine own home, and in thyself dwell;
Inn anywhere; continuance maketh hell.
And seeing the snail which everywhere doth roam,
Carrying his own house still, still is at home,
Follow (for he is easy paced) this snail,
Be thine own palace, or the world’s thy jail.
And in the world’s sea, do not like cork sleep
Upon the water’s face; nor in the deep
Sink like a lead without a line; but as
Fishes glide, leaving no print where they pass,
Nor making sound, so closely thy course go;
Let men dispute whether thou breathe or no:
Only in this be no Galenist,—to make
Court’s hot ambitions wholesome, do not take
A dram of country’s dullness; do not add
Correctives, but, as chemics, purge the bad;
But, Sir, I advise not you, I rather do
Say o’er those lessons which I learn’d of you,
Whom, free from Germany schisms, and lightness
Of France, and fair Italy’s faithlessness,
Having from these sucked all they had of worth,
And brought home that faith which you carried forth,
I thoroughly love; but if myself I’ve won
To know my rules, I have and you have
DONNE.”
[ To Sir Henry Wotton, by John Donne – 1571-1631 ]

“To some the Bible is uninteresting and unprofitable, because they read too fast. Amongst the insects which subsist on the sweet sap of flowers, there are two very different classes. One is remarkable for its imposing plumage, which shows in the sunbeams like the dust of gems; and as you watch its jaunty gyrations over the fields, and its minuet dance from flower to flower, you cannot help admiring its graceful activity, for it is plainly getting over a great deal of ground. But, in the same field there is another worker, whose brown vest and business-like straight-forward flight may not have arrested your eye. His fluttering neighbour darts down here and.there, and sips elegantly wherever he can find a drop of ready nectar; but this dingy plodder makes a point of alighting everywhere, and wherever he alights he either finds honey or makes it. If the flower-cup be deep, he goes down to the bottom; if its dragon-mouth be shut, he thrusts its lips asunder; and if the nectar be peculiar or recondite, he explores all about till he discovers it, and then having ascertained the knack of it, joyful as one who has found great spoil, he sings his way down into its luscious recesses. His rival, of the painted velvet wing, has no patience for such dull and long-winded details. But what is the end? Why, the one died last October along with the flowers; the other is warm in his hive to-night, amidst the fragrant stores which he gathered beneath the bright beams of summer.

Reader, to which do you belong?-the butterflies or bees? Do you search the Scriptures, or do you only skim them? Do you dwell on a passage till you bring out some meaning, or till you can carry away some memorable truth or immediate lesson? or do you flit along on heedless wing, only on the look-out for novelty, and too frivolous to explore or ponder the Scriptures? Does the Word of God dwell in you so richly, that in the vigils of a restless night, or in the bookless solitude of a sick room, or in the winter of old age or exclusion from ordinances, its treasured truths would perpetuate summer round you, and give you meat to eat which the world knows not of?”
[ Charles Spurgeon ]

“WHEN Mr. Hone, who wrote the ” Every-day Book,” and was of sceptical views, was travelling through Wales, he stopped at a cottage to ask for a drink of water, and a little girl answered him, ” Oh, yes! sir, I have no doubt mother will give you some milk. Come in.” He went in and sat down. The little girl was reading her Bible. Mr. Hone said, “Well, my little girl, you are getting your task?” ” No, sir, I am not,” she replied, “I am reading the Bible.” “Yes,” said he, ” you are getting your task out of the Bible?” ” Oh, no,” she replied, ” it is no task to read the Bible; I love the Bible.” “And why do you love the Bible?” said he. Her simple, child-like answer was, ” I thought everybody loved the Bible.” Her own love to the precious volume had made her innocently believe that everybody else was equally delighted to read God’s Word. Mr. Hone was so touched with the sincerity of that expression, that he read the Bible himself, and instead of being an opponent to the things of God, came to be a friend of divine truth.”
[ Charles Spurgeon ]

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RELATED SCRIPTURE VERSES:

God Loves Me

John 3:16
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

Romans 5:8
But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Isaiah 41:10
Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

1 John 4:16
So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.

Romans 8:35-39
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written, “For your sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.” No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

John 15:13
Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.

Jeremiah 31:3
The Lord appeared to him from far away. I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you.

1 John 4:19
We love because he first loved us.

Zephaniah 3:17
The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.

Ephesians 3:17-19
So that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

1 John 4:10
In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.

Psalm 86:15
But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.

Psalm 147:3
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

Psalm 118:6
The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?

Galatians 2:20
I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

Psalm 103:8
The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.

Romans 8:31
What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Ephesians 2:4-5
But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved—

1 John 3:1
See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him.

Psalm 136:26
Give thanks to the God of heaven, for his steadfast love endures forever.

Romans 8:37-39
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Ephesians 2:8
For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God,

Isaiah 43:4-5
Because you are precious in my eyes, and honored, and I love you, I give men in return for you, peoples in exchange for your life. Fear not, for I am with you; I will bring your offspring from the east, and from the west I will gather you.

1 John 4:8
Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.

Deuteronomy 7:9
Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, to a thousand generations,

1 Corinthians 13:13
So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.

Romans 5:3-5
More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

1 John 4:7-8
Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.

Lamentations 3:22-23
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

1 Peter 5:6-7
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

John 15:9
As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love.

Isaiah 53:5
But he was wounded for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his stripes we are healed.

Romans 8:38-39
For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Revelation 21:4
He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

Romans 10:13
For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

Romans 8:28
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

1 John 4:7
Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.

1 John 4:9-11
In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.

Psalm 103:13
As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him.

Psalm 36:7
How precious is your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings.

Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

John 15:9-17
As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. …

Psalm 63:3
Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you.

John 14:6
Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

Isaiah 41:13
For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, “Fear not, I am the one who helps you.”

Isaiah 54:10
For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.

1 John 3:16
By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.

Ephesians 4:2
With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love,

Psalm 139:14
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.

Psalm 62:8
Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us. Selah

John 13:34-35
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

John 3:16-17
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.

1 Corinthians 13:1-13
If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing. Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; …

Isaiah 49:16
Behold, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are continually before me.

1 John 4:18
There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.

Ephesians 5:25
Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her,

1 John 4:9-10
In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.

Proverbs 8:17
I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me.

1 Peter 4:8
Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.

Colossians 3:14
And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.

Isaiah 43:4
Because you are precious in my eyes, and honored, and I love you, I give men in return for you, peoples in exchange for your life.

Psalm 62:7
On God rests my salvation and my glory; my mighty rock, my refuge is God.

1 Corinthians 13:4
Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant

Romans 6:23
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

John 10:9-11
I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.

Hebrews 12:6
For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.”

Matthew 11:28-30
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Proverbs 10:12
Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses.

Romans 5:2-5
Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

John 1:12
But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,

Hebrews 13:5
Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

2 Peter 3:9
The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.

2 Corinthians 5:21
For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8
Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away.

Psalm 27:1-14
Of David. The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? When evildoers assail me to eat up my flesh, my adversaries and foes, it is they who stumble and fall. Though an army encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war arise against me, yet I will be confident. One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple. For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble; he will conceal me under the cover of his tent; he will lift me high upon a rock. …

Proverbs 17:17
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

Romans 13:8
Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law.

Matthew 11:29
Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

Matthew 22:37-39
And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.

Ephesians 5:2
And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

1 Corinthians 16:14
Let all that you do be done in love.

Romans 10:9-10
Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.

John 14:15
“If you love me, you will keep my commandments.

Proverbs 3:3-4
Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man.

1 Corinthians 13:8
Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away.

John 15:12
“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.

John 15:9-10
As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love.

1 Corinthians 13:2
And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.

Psalm 109:26
Help me, O Lord my God! Save me according to your steadfast love!

2 Thessalonians 3:5
May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the steadfastness of Christ.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

John 3:36
Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.

Acts 4:12
And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”

Psalm 86:5
For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you.

1 John 3:1-3
See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.

Romans 12:9
Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.

1 John 4:12
No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us.

Isaiah 53:6
All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.

Psalm 103:2-5
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

Galatians 5:22-23
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

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“A quick summary of the Christian “Gospel”:
JESUS’ PROPITIATION made our SINS FORGIVEN and IMPUTED RIGHTEOUSNESS to us so that we have GOD’S ACCEPTANCE into His Heaven and receive ETERNAL LIFE.”
[ Mark Besh ]

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Hope you enjoyed some of these insights—share them with your friends and colleagues—so we can have a larger ’pool’ to receive from, and more to share with! Also, remember to include your name as the “source,” if some of this wisdom is of your doing—I would like to give credit where credit is due!

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FOCUS VERSES:

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“…man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.”
[ Deuteronomy 8:3d ]

“It is no empty word for you, but your very life.”
[ Deuteronomy 32:47 ].

“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.”
[ Joshua 1:8 ]

“I have not departed from the commandment of his lips; I have treasured the words of his mouth more than my daily food.”
[ Job 23:12 ]

“How blessed [happy, joyful] is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, nor stand in the path of sinners, nor sit in the seat of scoffers! But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night. And he will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither; and in whatever he does, he prospers” [ Psalm 1:1-3 ]

“More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb.”
[ Psalm 19:10 ]

“I have hidden your Word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”
[ Psalm 119:11 ]

“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”
[ Psalm 19:14 ]

“More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb” [ Psalm 19:10 ]

“For I find my delight in your commandments, which I love.”
[ Psalm 119:47 ]

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
[ Psalm 119:105 ]

“Hear, O heavens, and give ear O earth for the Lord has spoken.”
[ Isaiah 1:2 ]

“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.”
[ Isaiah 26:3 ]

“The grass withers, the flower fades away, but the Word of our God abides
forever.”
[ Isaiah 40:8 ].

“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”
[ Hosea 4:6 ]

“Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.”
[ Matthew 4:4 ]

“For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.”
[ Matthew 5:18 ].

“Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these other things will be added to you.”
[ Matthew 6:33 ]

“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away.”
[ Mark 13:31 ].

“You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about Me, yet you refuse to come to Me to have life.”
[ John 5:39-40 ]

“the sheep follow Him, for they know His voice.”
[ John 10:4c ]

“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”
[ John 14:6 ]

“Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.”
[ John 17:17 ]

“be conformed to the image of [God’s] Son, Jesus.”
[ Romans 8:29b ]

“So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.”
[ Romans 10:17 ]

“For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus.”
[ Romans 15:4-5 ]

“Be filled with the knowledge of [God’s] will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding.”
[ Colossians 1:9 ]

“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught.”
[ Colossians 2:6-7 ]

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

“and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.”
[ 1 Timothy 3:15 ]

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”
[ 2 Timothy 3:16-17 ]

“Therefore, put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation.”
[ 1 Peter 2:1-2 ]

“Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things. For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”
[ 2 Peter 1:20-21 ]

“But the one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty [God’s Word], and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does.”
[ James 1:25 ]

“Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of the prophecy, and heed the things which are written in it.”
[ Revelation 1:3 ]

“Blessed is he who heeds the words of the prophecy of this book.”
[ Revelation 22:7 ]

Mark

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If you have a ‘neat’ story or some thoughts about an issue or current event that you would like me to try to respond to, I would be glad to give it a try…so, send them to me at: mbesh@comcast.net

Disclaimer: All the above jokes & inspirations are obtained from various sources and copyright are used when known. Other than our name and headers, we do not own the copyright to any of the materials sent to this list. We just want to spread the ministry of God’s love and cheerfulness throughout the world.

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