Know The Bible
By Pastor Phillip Rutledge
Do you believe everything you read or hear in the news? As bizarre as some stories may sound, you accept their accuracy because they are first-hand accounts of the events and you trust the publisher.
What do you think of the stories in the bible?
Max Lucado in a booklet called How to Study the Bible says, “… It’s surprising that anyone reads it. It’s too old. Some of its writings date back five thousand years. It’s too bizarre. The book speaks of incredible floods, fires, earthquakes, and people with supernatural abilities. It’s too radical. The Bible calls for undying devotion to a Carpenter who called Himself God’s Son… (but) … not only has it survived, it has thrived. It is the single most popular book in all of history.
Sadly, those who don’t know the Publisher, think the bible is little more than a book of fables or a self help book of morals and ethics no longer relevant to our culture.
Do I believe the stories in the Bible? Yes, because I know the Publisher.
Biblical events were woven together by numerous first-hand observers to describe God’s love for us; how He became flesh and entered the world to save us, and how He has left the Comforter here to help us until He returns. Who but the Author and Publisher of the universe could fashion something so intricate?
As the book of Luke comes to a close the disciples heard from the Publisher himself. This wasn’t just an “ah ha” moment – but a miracle. In Luke 24:45, “… (Jesus) opened (the disciples) minds so they could understand the scriptures.” Imagine knowing very little about a subject and in an instant becoming a genius on the topic. That’s how the Holy Spirit opened their minds.
Sadly, those who don’t know the Publisher, think the bible is little more than a book of fables or a self help book of morals and ethics no longer relevant to our culture.
Luke 24:46-48 (NIV) 46 (Jesus) told them, “This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things.
The disciples could not have comprehended the effect their new gift of evangelism would have on the world anymore than Terry Fox could have imagined the impact he would have on fundraising for cancer research today. But God empowered the disciples.
I wonder if a little fear accompanied their amazement as Jesus told them about God’s plan to send the Holy Spirit, then blessed them and ascended into heaven.
Luke 24:52-53 (NIV) 52 Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. 53 And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God.
God delivered His Word to the world through his disciples – then and now.
Not convinced about the bible’s authenticity? Then, I challenge you to examine the bible for yourself. You can’t refute it unless you read it.
However, I must warn you; some of the finest authorities in Christian apologetics began with the same goal in mind – to disprove the bible. One example is former atheist and journalist Lee Strobel. Look him up on the internet; his story is really quite amazing.
At the same time as you read the bible, you will be in communion with God. I pray He will open your mind in order that you might believe. – S.D.G.