Is
the Bible relevant to everyday living? Or is it just a Sunday service book? Or a
book for religion? Or a book only for pastors and clergy?
My answer in brief is –
Yes, it is very relevant for the everyday living of everyone.
There are many reasons to read,
study and meditate on the Bible. For example, it is prime reading for
lawmakers, judges and lawyers. My High School teacher recommended it as a text
of quality English! It contains unique poetry and prose along with stories
vivid and exciting enough for any child or adult. For those into health
considerations, it has so many directives – especially cleanliness and
sanitation (two of the world’s greatest problems). As to social order, it is second
to none in giving direction as to justice, harmony and peace. For historians,
it is a gold mine.
No wonder it is still the world’s
best seller!
Pardon me for using my personal experience to illustrate the
point of relevance.:
It gives purpose, motivation and direction in life. Do I raise
my children for my selfish or their selfish purposes- no . The scriptures call
to a more noble purpose, to honour the Lord. In marriage the Bible directs me
away from my natural instinct of passive aggression, to love like Christ loved,
even when I don’t feel like it. The stresses and temptations of operating a business
are many, but he Bible guides me away from dishonesty and greed. How shall I
relate to other people?- promoting myself as the source of all knowledge and authority?
Well that is natural enough, but the word and example of the Lord changes that
to meekness and humility like the Lord Himself. He even challenges me to love
my enemies.
The wonder of the Bible (compared with others), is that it is
ever fresh with words of illumination, hope and encouragement. After 50 years
of reading it, it is not dull or boring
but alive with renewing light.
Beyond and above all the present practical relevance, it
brightly shines with spiritual light concerning Jesus Christ the Lord. To know
Him, to yield to Him, to worship and serve Him gives life its true meaning.
This unique book is largely sought after as the media by which
God speaks to people. As history it records God speaking to individuals and to
the nations. The final focus is of God speaking to the whole world through the
appearance of His Son, Jesus Christ. The words of the Lord Jesus along with His
actions remain today the greatest communication humanity has ever received.
Many are offended by the words of the Lord Jesus, but millions read and reread
His words for the intense blessing they give to every circumstance in every
nation and in every age.
The teaching of the Apostles, enhance the Christian dialogue.
How unusual, yet how real is the experience that by reading this ancient book,
we can again hear the word ‘from my
Lord’! It is the Holy Spirit that makes
these words so relevant and precious to
so many people across the world.
If you do not have a Bible to read, send me an email as I have
some spares to give away.
johnmckee@internode.on.net
