I met this guy a few years ago when I started going to Real Life and began working on the media team. He used to have this saying "It's not rocket science no really it's not." It was one of those sayings where you're trying to get the other person to think. Over the past two weeks I have heard this absolutely absurd notion and it goes something like this. Two different religious groups think you can't read the Bible on your own that's the job of the pastors or elders of the church because you're not smart enough to understand it on your own. The Bible is available on apps for your phone it's the number one best seller has been for years. It's been translated multiple times in numerous languages. If you go to a church that doesn't want you to read it you need to find a new church. Unless you live somewhere that forbids reading of the Bible the only thing keeping you from reading it is yourself. If you claim to be a believer in Christ his word is your handbook for life. You should desire to spend time in it. I'm going to show you just a few reasons to read it. Hopefully by the end of this it won't seem like rocket science to you. Before I do though I want to make one thing clear. Listening to a preacher teach you is not a bad thing but do me a favor when you do check what he is saying along with scripture. If he references something look it up. Don't just take it for granted. I will also tell you this if you need a copy of the Bible I know two churches who will gladly help you with that.
1. Christianity is about a relationship with God. In order to know Him you need to read his word. Hebrews 4:12-13 shows us that his word is alive. "For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable." No other book on the planet can do that. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 "All scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work." It's a learning tool.
2. Check things against God's word. You can't do that if you don't read it. Acts 17:11 "And the people of Berea were more open minded than those in Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul's message. They searched the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth."
3. History lessons. In Acts 3 and 7 Peter and Stephen took the religious leaders of their days on trips through Israel's history to show them who God was and how he connected to Jesus Christ.
4. The more you spend time in God's word the more it changes you. Psalm 23 is one of the most quoted Psalms but how would you know all the promises and comfort found in it if you don't read it.
5. You want to hear "well done." 2 Timothy 2:15 "Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.
There's plenty more reasons to read the Bible but these are a few to prove it's not really rocket science. Remember the only one keeping you from doing so is you. You have everything to gain don't depend solely on others. If you do you are missing out on getting to know God.
"The Bible was not given to increase our knowledge but to change our lives." D.L.Moody
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