Nurture [Session 5]
The Bible “For the Word of God is living and active…” Hebrews 4:12
[Session 5] Introduction It has been likened to an instruction manual for the Christian life, but this massively underestimates the power and purpose of God’s Word, the Bible. When we become a follower of Christ we need to grow in our relationship with God. Like any relationship, our relationship with God is only developed with time and effort. The key to growth is listening to God, (reading His Word) and worship and prayer (God’s presence).
What is the Bible? -‐ -‐ -‐ -‐ -‐ -‐ -‐
The Bible is a collection of sixty-six books, written by a number of writers, in three languages, over many years! The Bible has two main sections; the Old and New Testament, (‘testament’ means covenant or testimony). The Bible, or parts of it, are sometimes referred to as ‘scriptures’, ‘holy scriptures’, ‘law’, ‘God’s word’. Although written by different people, the Bible is God’s inspired word (2 Timothy 3:16) (1 Thessalonians 2:13) (2 Peter 1:20-21). The Bible is therefore holy, (Romans 1:1-2) true, (2 Tim 2:15) (James 1:18) and completely trustworthy (Revelation 22:6-8) (Psalm 19:7). The Bible is God’s eternal Word to us (1 Peter 1:23-25). The Bible uses many different types of literature (genre); narrative, (Genesis) poetry, (Psalms) love letters, (Song of Songs) songs, (Psalms) wisdom, (Proverbs) letters, (Romans) prophecy, (Isaiah) apocalyptic writing, (Revelation) as well as combinations of these.
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lifechurch
Nurture
[Session 5] [Session 5]
The Bible Why is reading the Bible so important? -‐ -‐ -‐ -‐ -‐ -‐ -‐ -‐ -‐ -‐
The Bible teaches us how to live a life that pleases God (Psalm 119:9-16) (1 Corinthians 10:11). It reveals Jesus Christ and the ‘good news’ of the Gospel (Acts 8:35) (Acts 10:43) (1 Corinthians 15:3). Reading God’s Word produces faith in us (Romans 10:17) (Hebrews 13:7) (Hebrews 11:6). It equips us for every aspect of life (2 Timothy 3:15-17) and teaches us the truth that brings us freedom (John 8:32) (Psalm 119:45). It guides us in life and helps us to see God’s plan for our lives (Psalm 119:103-105). Reading the Bible revives us (Psalm 19:7-11). It reveals God’s promises and requirements (James 1:21-25). The Bible empowers us to resist temptation (Matthew 4:4-11) (1 John 2:14) and keeps us pure (Psalm 119:9). Reading the Bible gives us wisdom (Psalm 119:98-100) and peace (Psalm 119:165).
So, what next? (How do we receive the most benefit from reading the Bible?) -‐ -‐ -‐ -‐
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Start by reading about Jesus (e.g. Luke’s Gospel). Then read about how the early Church developed (Acts, also written by Luke). Read a ‘passage’ (section of verses) or chapter(s) of the Bible every day. Don’t just skim over what you’ve read; try to dig deeper into the context of the passage. Ask questions like, who wrote it, when and why? What was God doing and saying then? This will help you understand what God is saying to you now, and how you can apply his word. Think and pray about what you’ve just read. Ask God to speak to you. If God has challenged you to do something specific you could share this with someone. They can then pray for you, encourage you, and hold you accountable. If you don’t understand what you’re reading, ask for help!
Conclusion The Bible enables God’s people to be equipped to do God’s work in God’s world (2 Timothy 3:15-17). It is an important part of our ‘spiritual diet’. The great thing is there is no limit to the amount we can ‘eat’! However, God’s word must be applied through obedience and prayer.
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