CHAPTERS AND VERSES WHO PUT THEM IN THE BIBLE?

A BOON FOR BIBLE STUDENTS

It seems to be such a simple idea-numbered chapters and verses.  This gives each verse in the Bible a unique "address"-like a postal code.  True, the chapter and verse divisions are not inspired by God, and they do at times break up the Bible text in strange places.  But they make it easier for us to pinpoint quotes and to highlight or share individual verses that may have special meaning for us-just as we highlight expressions or phrases that  we specially want to remember in a document or a book.

Convenient though the chapter-and-verse divisions are, always keep in mind the importance of getting the right picture-understanding the whole message  God gave. Cultivate the habit of reading the context rather than just isolated verses.  Doing so will help you to become more and more familiar with all "the holy writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation." -2 Timothy 3:15. 

How Chapters and Verses Are Designated

 A chapter-and-verse reference lets you know where to find any passage of scripture. In this magazine, the reference "Isaiah 40:13," for example identifies the following:  

(a) the book, Isaiah
(b) The chapter, 40
(c) The verse, 13

There, we find Isaiah's words:  "Who has taken the measurements of the spirit of Jehovah, and who can instruct him as his adviser?"  Paul's use of these words can now be found easily at Romans 11:34 and 1 Corinthians 2:16. 

Next time: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH?/Is This What God Purposed?

From the book WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH?