In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Paul wrote: “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” In other words, the Bible is good for teaching—it tells us what is true; it is good for reproof—it tells us what’s not right; it is good for correction, literally meaning “to stand us up on our feet”—it tells us how to get it right; and finally, the Word of God trains us to perform what is right. That’s a pretty hefty resume for one book. A book like this must be taken seriously.
Many years ago, a man named Robert Chapman gave Christians a powerful reminder of our privilege and responsibility as stewards of God’s Word. He wrote:
This book contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, its precepts binding, its histories are true, and its decisions are immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveler’s map, the pilgrim’s staff, the pilot’s compass, and the soldier’s sword. It should fill the memory, test the heart, and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently, prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure. It involves the highest responsibility, rewards the greatest labor, and condemns all who will trifle with its sacred contents. Christ is its grand subject, our good is its design, and the glory of God is its end.
The question then is not “Why study the Bible,” but “How can we afford not to?” What will you do with God’s Word today? It’s not meant to simply adorn the table in your living room or lay on your bedside table, unread.
Pick it up—use it. It’s the perfect blueprint . . . for building your life! (From Wisdom for the Heart)
