We all know that the primary read for the Christian is the Bible. Daily and whenever the need arises is the rule. No exceptions. But what about how we read the Bible? I've read through the Bible several times. Once I read the Bible as a story. Another time I read through the Bible as a historical document. I've read the Bible for prophecy purposes as well as the end times dimension. Then I've read through the Bible to see Jesus from beginning to end. Reading the Bible doesn't have to be tedious. You and I can study sections or stories in the Bible to get "behind the scenes" of what really happened, what the world was like, and the challenges that are overcome. The Bible holds so much information that even today I'm discovering many surprises (to me) of what is written there. Sometimes I'm offended by what I read and have to reconcile what I am thinking and feeling with the reality of the Word. The Bible has so much to say about everything. And, like everything, the Christian sometimes doesn't want to know because then there is personal responsibility to the what the Word says. Still, we shouldn't shy away from reading, studying and sharing the primer of the Christian faith.
"Sin will keep you from the Word of God or the Word of God will keep you from sin." anon
The next category of reading for life is found in commentaries and study tools. They are essential to get the bigger picture of the traditions, historical setting, and what happened in different venues during that time period. Sometimes the studies seem to be a help and other times, "the more you know, the more you are responsible for. Commentaries are only as good as their adherence to the Word of God. When mankind seeks to interpret the Bible from their perspective rather than God's perspective a watered down Gospel is put forth. Did I mention that's sin? Any study material put forth by cults is a definite no no. We may think that others have insight into the Bible. But, if they are perverting the Gospel then their publications are sin. From the pit of hell if you will. Whenever we read outside of the Bible we need to be cautious of that reading containing manipulation, control or secrecy. All three are the tools of the enemy who seeks to dissuade even the very elect. If we can't find the answers to our questions in the Bible, we haven't read the Bible enough.
"Professing themselves to be wise, they proved themselves fools." Bible
Then there are those who pervert the Gospel by writing books that are intent on making money. They tell people what they want to hear rather than what they need to hear. When was the last time someone's book about sin made the best sellers list? They don't because people don't want to hear God's truth when they can have a televangelist's truth. They have their reward. Don't be drawn in by smiles and catchy titles. They may sell books but they usually don't provide the truth and guidance for the serious Christian. Ask yourself which of the books you are reading or have read Jesus would read and endorse? If you come to the conclusion that the Bible is the most reliable resource of the Christian life you have chosen wisely. Remember that it's always your choice.
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