Reading the Bible

Yes, the Bible remains relevant today as it offers timeless wisdom, guidance, and encouragement for how to live in alignment with God’s will. It addresses universal themes like love, justice, and morality, applicable to every generation. Hebrews 4:12 reminds us, “The word of God is alive and active… it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart,” showing its power to impact our lives today.

Though written by human authors, the Bible is divinely inspired by God. As 2 Timothy 3:16 states, “All Scripture is God-breathed,” meaning the Holy Spirit guided the authors, ensuring that it is trustworthy and without error. The Bible is God’s revelation to humanity, reflecting His truth through the backgrounds and experiences of its writers.

Different Bible translations exist to make God’s Word accessible to people across cultures and languages. While the original Scriptures were written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, translations help convey the meaning in different languages and styles. Proverbs 30:5 says, “Every word of God is flawless,” and translations aim to capture that flawless truth in understandable ways for different readers.

We tend to use the NIV (New International Version), NLT (New Living Translation), ESV (English Standard Version), and the NKJV (New King James Version).

The easiest, most approachable version to start out reading would be the NLT.

If you’re new to reading the Bible, start with the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—as they provide a clear understanding of Jesus’ life and teachings. Using a Bible reading plan, like the S.O.A.P. method, can help guide you through Scripture. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path,” offering direction and insight for your life.

While the Bible is not intended to be a scientific textbook, it offers profound spiritual truths and moral teachings that transcend scientific explanation. We believe that the Bible reveals God’s purpose for humanity and the world, and any references to natural events, like creation in Genesis, point to God’s role as Creator. As Psalm 19:1 says, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands,” showing how the natural world reflects God’s majesty, with faith and science both revealing aspects of His truth.

The Bible is made up of 66 books, divided into the Old and New Testaments, including different types of writings like law, history, poetry, prophecy, gospels, and letters. Each book reveals a unique aspect of God’s plan, from guiding people in daily living to revealing the life and teachings of Jesus. As 2 Peter 1:21 reminds us, “Prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit,” showing how each book is inspired by God’s guidance.