Does The Bible Have a Hidden Code?

Do We Need a Hidden Bible Code?

The apostle Paul very clearly wrote that "all Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for setting things straight, for disciplining in righteousness, that the man of God may be fully competent, completely equipped for every good work."  (2 Timothy 3:16, 17) The clear and straightforward message in the Bible is not too difficult to understand or apply, but many people choose to ignore it.  (Deuteronomy 30:11-14)  The prophecies that are openly presented in the Bible gives a solid basis for believing its inspiration.   Unlike a hidden code, Bible prophecies are not arbitrary, and they do not 'spring from any private interpretation.' -2 Peter 1:19-21.

The apostle Peter wrote  that  "it was not by following artfully contrived false  stories that we acquainted you with the power and presence of our Lord Jesus Christ."  ( 2 Peter 1:16)  The concept of a Bible code has its roots in Jewish mysticism, utilizing "artfully contrived" methods that obscure and distort the plain meaning of the Bible's inspired text.  The Hebrew Scriptures themselves unequivocally condemned such a mystical approach. -Deuteronomy 13:1-5; 18:9-13.

How happy are we  to have the Bible's clear message and instruction, which can help  us to know God!  This is far better than trying to learn about our Creator by searching for hidden messages that are the products of private interpretation and computer-assisted imagination. -Matthew 7:24, 25.

Next time:  Can Your Life Have Greater Meaning?

Watchtower, 2000