Over the last few months I have been spending a considerable amount of time contemplating Scripture. I am not here referring to the reading of any particular book of the Bible or to the study of any particular doctrine. I am specifically referring to time spent simply pondering and reflecting on what it means to have a Bible and what it represents.
While the exercise is not new, I find that each time I come at the topic I learn something new. I come away feeling enlightened, edified, encouraged and, most often, awestruck. In fact, if you have never found yourself in absolute awe that God, the Lord of the Universe, has spoken your language and provided you with a record of redemption accomplished and victory won, I hope you will pursue your own study of Scripture soon.
There are any numbers of ways to go about such a study, but a few things are foundational. First, you need to devote at least a portion of time each day to reading God’s Word. It can be for five minutes or it can be for an hour. Whatever you are able to do. I am not referring to a “daily devotional” time here, though that will accomplish the same goal. What is most important in this case is demonstrating a commitment, respect and even reverence for Scripture by “showing up” everyday. It also doesn’t matter what you read. Feel free to simply go through the gospels or one of Paul’s letters. Better yet, dig into some of those Old Testament books that people never seem to get around to. Whatever you choose, just do it, and do it every day.
Second, and not surprisingly, pray. Pray before you read, while you read and after you read. Talk to God, and occasionally stop to listen to Him. Let God know that you want to grow in your understanding of His Word, both its content and its transmission. As you do this, you may never look at the Bible in the same way again.
Next, find a few good books on the subject. A relatively simple one might be Scripture Alone by James White. This is a popular (and short) treatment of the inspiration, canonicity and character of Scripture. It should serve as a good introduction to the topic while sparking a little of that awe I was talking about earlier. It may be more challenging for some than for others, but it should be inspiring for all. You will likely find yourself dealing with some unfamiliar topics and that is a good thing. Never cease challenging yourself at least a little. That is how you grow.
Of course, there are plenty of other books you could check out. Ask your pastor or someone you trust that is experienced in these things for some suggestions. Also, check out the references and referrals found in Scripture Alone if you want to dig deeper. Whatever you read, however, do not let it become a substitute for Scripture.
While there is much more that could be said, I will leave you with this: 2 Timothy 3.16 says that “all Scripture is inspired by God….” The word here translated ‘inspired’ is theoneustos and comes from Theos meaning “God” and pneō meaning “to breathe or to breathe out.” One might more accurately translate the passage as, “all Scripture is God-breathed….” You might begin your study by contemplating what it means that Scripture is God-breathed and go from there. Then think about the fact that it says all Scripture and consider what that means (does it really mean every word?).
Enjoy the ride!