The Bible

Why should I read the Bible?

By Jeremy Osborn

Christians read the Bible for the same reason a hungry person eats. It is not homework; it is food.

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.

2 Timothy 3:16 (KJV)

What Scripture says

Scripture is God-breathed and useful — for teaching, for correcting, for training. It is a lamp for the next step, not a floodlight over the whole road.

What this means

You do not read the Bible to win an argument or pass a test. You read it to know God and to be changed by Him.

Go deeper

Start with a Gospel rather than Genesis. Meeting Jesus first makes the rest of the Bible legible.

Supporting Scripture

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

Psalm 119:105 (KJV)

This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein.

Joshua 1:8 (KJV)

Think about it

What has stopped you reading until now — time, confusion, boredom, fear?

Put it into practice

Read John chapter 1 today. Tomorrow read chapter 2. Keep going. Ten minutes is enough.

Pray

Father, speak to me through your Word. Give me hunger for it. Amen.

Your next step

Begin the First 7 Days with Jesus reading plan.