Q. Why should I read the Bible? I find concentrating when I read very difficult as I've never liked books. I listen to the sermons on the Sabbath and follow the teachings of my parents, and I pray. Isn't that enough?

There are many important reasons why you should read the Bible but perhaps I can mention four compelling ones: (1) Jesus commands it (John 5:39); (2) It will keep you from error (Matt.22:29); (3) It is contains eternal truth (Matt.24:5; John 17:17); and (4) It makes you wise unto salvation through Jesus (2 Tim.3:15).

Theoretically it is possible to draw close to God and live an exemplarary Christian life without reading the Bible but in practice I have discovered that without the continual re-enforcement of its guiding principles it is very easy to start drifting in the wrong direction and, if neglected long enough, can lead one far away from the Gospel.

There will always be dark times in a Christian's life as he wrestles with his lower nature and feels disconnected from God. In these moments the Bible becomes a life-line. There will be times when you will hear convincing yet erroneous doctrines which, with the proper Biblical knowledge, you will be able to instantly refute and not be led astray by.

Of course, if you are able to memorise the Bible, as the Jews once were able to (because they had to -- each family didn't own written scriptures anciently), then that is a different matter. You are strongly encouraged to commit to memory as much of the Bible as you can. We encourage this in our Sunday Schools. Though I know most of us always carry small pocket Bibles or New Testaments around with us, this is not always the case, and in this situation memorised scripture can be an invaluable witnessing tool in in promptu witnessing. Some Christians like to listen to the Bible on tape and this too is good if it helps makes the Word come alive for you, especially if you have probias against reading. However, as in all things in Christ, phobias and dislikes can be overcome in the power of Christ. I myself used to hate reading but my mother forced me to do it. Now it comes naturally.

Though the in-dwelling Christ will always be your most sacred possession, the words of scripture will provide one of the most important fuels to keep that fire burning. Don't neglect it!

This page was created on 1 May 1998 Last updated on 1 May 1998

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