In The News

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THE NEGLECTED BOOK


The American Bible Society’s annual State of the Bible Survey reveals that “the people of the book are not people of this book,” according to Geof Morin—chief communications officer for the society. “We know 88 percent of people say they have a Bible. They think: I have a Bible. I have had one for a long time. I must know what is in it.” Not necessarily.
This recalls a time when I was soon to report for military duty during World War II. I inquired of my mother whether we had a Bible. She thought so, and suggested where I might look for it. It was where she anticipated. I read briefly, but then I did not consider myself a Christian at the time.
“When it came to assessing what the Bible says on several critical social issues, many showed fuzzy knowledge of the attitudes and behaviors addressed in Scripture.” However, there is a pronounced difference between those who are actively engaged in cultivating their faith, and those content with a token alternative. As for the latter, they are inclined to approximate the prevailing cultural mores of their society. Recalling the admonition: “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—the good, pleasing, and perfect will” (Rom. 12:2).
This brings to mind several other pertinent texts. “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:16). All Scripture, in its particulars and its entirety. As inspired of God, implying a dynamic relationship between the divine initiative and the human means.
Thus Scripture is uniquely profitable for human instruction. Then in greater detail, “rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” As if a manual for living in God’s world, and with his provision. So that “the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” Hence, well trained to do good in a comprehensive manner.
“Blessed are they who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart” (Psa. 119:2). In this life and that which awaits us. Such as are unwavering in their devotion.
While not distracted by other considerations, legitimate as they may be. Recalling the sage observation, “It is not the blatant wrong we do, but the lesser good that is more likely to hinder us from realizing the greater good.” That is, to glorify God and enjoy him forever.
“How can a young man keep his ways pure? By living according to your word” (Psa. 119:9). Thus are we encouraged not to procrastinate. Get a good start, maintain a rigorous pace, and finish strong. As if running a race.
As expressed by Dietrich Bonhoeffer, “Those who believe, obey; and those who obey believe.” So that he reasons further, if one is having difficulty with one or the other, focus on the alternative. In graphic terms, press toward the light.
“I rejoice in knowing your statutes as one rejoices in great riches” (Psa. 119:14). “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and dust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal,” Jesus cautioned. “But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal” (Matt. 6:19-20). For where one’s treasure is, there will be the focus of his or her devotion.
The appeal to rejoice also underscores the potential for doing so. Along with the implication that our capacity for pain and pleasure may be comparable. It is surpassed perhaps only by God, who anguishes over our evil, and rejoices in our righteous resolve.
“I will walk in the way of freedom for I have sought out your precepts” (Psa. 119:45). Only in this manner can freedom be genuinely realized. Other options prove to be deceptive, since they result in bondage. Slavery to self, slavery to circumstances, and slavery to wrong doing.
Conversely, the freedom that is cultivated by Scripture results in God’s lavish blessing. Blessing in terms of guidance, enablement, and as if a benediction. Since when all has been said and done, we are indeed blessed.
“The Bible Society wants to track what is happening in the culture and why people are less and less connecting the moral and political issues of the day with their Bible,” Morin concludes. As if an astute observer, concerned not only with what is transpiring, but why it is taking place. Thus in hopes of more properly addressing the issue.
“The loving Christians tell the truth,” Grace Kim Kwon comments. But to tell the truth, they must first know what it is. According, Morin enjoins: “Read your Bible everyday and KNOW what’s in it.”

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