Why Read The Bible?

Good Morning,

Romans 15:4 (NIV)
For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

I know that at some time or other I must have read this verse of Scripture. However, I must admit that it didn't stick with me and I didn't remember it. I should have. If I had remembered what is said in this verse then I may have been able to give a better answer to questions that I've received about reading the Bible.

Clearly and succinctly put, we read in this verse that "EVERYTHING THAT WAS WRITTEN IN THE PAST was written TO EACH OF US." Not some of what was written or even most of what was written, but ALL of what was written. I would offer the opinion that this means the entire Bible and all that is contained therein. Seems pretty clear, doesn't it?

Then this wonderful verse even gives us the reason that everything was written to all of us...then, now, and in the future..."So that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope." Again, so very clear and to the point. Our hope is in Jesus Christ, of course, and God's plan of salvation through Him. However, our hope is strengthened and we gain encouragement by reading Scripture.

As I said first off this morning, I wish that I'd remembered this verse of Scripture when I've been asked why we ought to read and study the Bible.

The Bible is a personal book written to you by God. It is a book written to me by God, as well. Just as it is to every human being who reads it. It is God's direct connect, so to speak, to each one of us. That's why it is essential that we read it.

It not only makes sense to me but it is also obvious to me.

We must read the Bible.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David