Chapter 2 - THE BOOK THAT REVEALS THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD

WHAT THE BIBLE CONTAINS

The Bible contains 66 books in two sections of ten called the Old Testament and the New Testament.  Thirty-nine Bible books were written mainly in Hebrew and 27 in Greek.  The Hebrew Scriptures, consisting of Genesis through Malachi, cover creation as well as the first 3,500  years of human history.  Examining this part of the Bible, we learn about God's dealings with the Israelites-from their birth as a nation in the 16th century B.C.E. on into  the 5th century B.C.E.  The Greek Scriptures, containing the books of Matthew through Revelation, focus on the teachings and activities of Jesus Christ and his disciples during the first century C.E.

Some claim that the "Old Testament" is for Jews and the "New Testament " is  for Christians.  But according to  2 Timothy 3:16,  "all Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial."  (That is the truth) Therefore, a proper study of the Scriptures must include the entire Bible.  Actually, the two parts of the Bible complement each other, blending harmoniously to develop an overall theme.

Perhaps you have attended religious services for years and have heard some of the Bible read aloud.  Or you may have read excerpts from it  yourself.  Did you know that the Bible has a common thread from Genesis through Revelation?  Yes,  a harmonious theme permeates the Bible.  What is that theme?  It is the  vindication of God's right to rule mankind and the realization of his loving purpose by means of his Kingdom.  Later, we will see just how God will fulfill his purpose.

In addition to outlining God's purpose, the Bible reveals his personality.  For example, from the Bible we learn that God has feelings and that the choices we make matter to him.  (Psalm 78:40, 41; Proverbs 27:11; Ezekiel 33:11)  Psalm 103:8-14 says that God is "merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in loving-kindness."  He treats us compassionately, 'remembering that we are made of mere dust' and return to it at death.  (Genesis 2:7; 3:19)  What marvelous qualities he displays! Is this not the kind of God you want to worship?  (Yes! it is the only one I want to worship)

The Bible gives us a clear view of God's standards.  These are sometimes stated as laws.  More often, however, they are reflected in principles taught by means of object lessons.  God had certain events in ancient Israelite history written down for our benefit.  These candid accounts show what happens when people work in harmony with God's purpose, as well as the sad outcome when they go their own way.  (1 Kings 5:4; 11:4-6; 2 Chronicles 15:8-15) Reading such real-life accounts will undoubtedly touch our hearts.  If we try to visualize the events recorded, we can identify with the people involved in them.  Thus, we can benefit from good examples and can avoid the pitfalls that ensnared wrongdoers.   However, this vital question requires an answer:  How can we be sure of what we read in the Bible is actually inspired of  God?

Next time: CAN YOU TRUST THE BIBLE?

The Book- KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995