By: Charles Brymer, Informed Faith
It has been
reported that the Scottish writer and poet, Sir Walter Scott, author of such
works as Ivanhoe and Rob Roy had one request of his son-in-law as he lay on his
death bed. Sir Scott requested that his son-in-law bring to him “the book.” To
which the man replied, “Which book? For you possess many.” Sir Scott answered,
“There is but one book!”
The Bible is
indeed the greatest book ever written. It is almost unfathomable, the untold number
of people, whose lives have been influenced by the Scriptures. Men and women
from all walks of life, regardless of race, nationality, or social status, have
drawn wisdom, comfort, and guidance from the pages of Scripture. Many have
tried to suppress it, destroy it, discount it, or ignore it but the Bible has
firmly withstood these attacks throughout history. To those who believe, this
is no surprise; for the Lord made just such a promise when He said, “The grass
withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever
(Isaiah 40:8, KJV).”
Considering the
Bible’s long, colorful history no one can deny the impact it has had on the
world. This might lead some to wonder why? What weight or importance does the
Bible possess that has given it such staying power and influence? A simple
comparison will help to illustrate. Any parent can tell you that children do
not come with instruction manuals. However, a God pleasing life does.
God provided
man with an instruction manual for making life everything God intended it to be
(2 Timothy 3:16–17). In God’s word we find truth in the purest sense (John
17:17). Such truth informs the triple threat of all of man’s searching
throughout our history: Where did we come from? Why are we here? Where are we going?
This truth will set us free and empower us (John 8:32). It does this in two
ways: theologically and ethically.
Theologically
it teaches us who God is, how to approach and please Him, and tells us of all
the wonders of His love and grace. This is vitally important because the
Scriptures repeatedly insist that we must approach God in sincerity [proper
attitude or spirit] and in truth (Josh 24:14, John 4:24, 1 Cor 5:8).
Ethically the
Bible teaches us how to carry ourselves. Its teachings provide a moral compass
for the chaotic landscape of everyday life (Psalm 119:104–105). We learn duty,
sacrifice, compassion, and integrity from those hallowed pages. We learn how to
respect ourselves and others. We learn the true meaning of love. What a
treasure has been bestowed to us!
Like so many
others throughout time, I proudly say give me “the book” – give me the Bible!
Charles Brymer preaches for the Magby Gap
Church of Christ. You can reach him by phone at (423) 443 – 2076 or by e-mail
at informedfaith@gmail.com. Feedback is welcomed and appreciated.