Reading the Bible
“Your word is a lamp to my feet
And a light to my path”
(Psalm 119:105, NKJV).
At first glance, it may be intimidating because of the number of pages within its cover or perhaps the different types of words utilized in an older version of the book. It may be that simply the reputation of the book prevents one from deciding to read it. Surprisingly, there is no prerequisite reading, and neither is it necessary to have read anything previously written by the authors. “What you need to know is given to you as you read the text [it]. The Bible is that way: It is written simply to be read.”
At first this statement may seem obvious, but it has been disputed by biblical scholars. Some assume that a complete understanding of biblical background is needed in order to read the Bible properly. Biblical studies have their place and can enhance a deeper meaning of the text, but the Bible is primarily targeted at a less than scholarly reader. It seems as though the authors had this in mind while penning particular passages. When they felt that there was a need to expound on particular items, they did so.
Consider the following example found in the Old Testament. Saul and his servant were in search of his father’s lost donkeys. The writer inserts some much needed clarification for the reader, “(Formerly in Israel, when a man went to inquire of God, he spoke thus: “Come, let us go to the seer”; for he who is now called a prophet was formerly called a seer.)”
There is also a similar example in the New Testament, but this time it involves a miracle by Jesus Christ. The scene includes Jesus, Jairus (a leader of a Jewish synagogue), his little daughter, and three of Jesus’ disciples. The author, Mark, intending to make this story more applicable to Gentile readers inserts the following explanation: “Then He took the child by the hand, and said to her, ‘Talitha, cumi,’ – which is translated, – ‘Little girl, I say to you, arise.’
As one reads the Bible, it may become obvious that only the important facts are mentioned, and the remaining details are left up to the reader’s imagination. Numerous examples can be given to substantiate this point. For example, the color of Sarah’s eyes is not given, but it is recorded that she was “a woman of beautiful countenance.”
Since the Bible was written to be read, give it a try. There are many tools available through your local Christian book store to simplify this task. There is a variety of translations and types that make the book enjoyable. Do not be misled because one portion of the Bible is referred to as the Old Testament and one as the New Testament – both are equally important. In fact, without the Old Testament the New Testament has little meaning.
Finally, remember that Bible Reading Enriches Any Day. An acronym to aid in remembering the importance of this task is B.R.E.A.D. So, dispel the belief that it is necessary to be a bible scholar to understand the Bible and start reading today. You will be amazed at what you read and learn.
By Pastor Frank
