Ever wondered why you should read the Bible? It’s a good question.
Why read a book written more than two thousand years ago when you have ChatGPT?
Let me tell you about my friend Carlos. As a boy, he heard that the Bible teaches that God burns the wicked in hell forever. He thought a god like that sounded awful, so he quit going to church. Instead, he started partying—drinking, dancing, having fun. He was the life of the party.
But when he was alone, the pointlessness of life made him depressed and suicidal.
When he was in college, Carlos found a book about the historical Jesus. That brought Carlos face-to-face with a puzzling question: Why in the world would Jesus willingly go to the cross? To find the answer to that question, he decided to read the Bible for himself. He discovered a peace he had never felt before—and he learned that God actually doesn’t burn people in hell forever.
I’m guessing you can relate to Carlos and his desire for peace. True peace is rare in our world. Maybe you have questions about life and faith. Or you’re struggling with depression, a tough decision, or feelings of worthlessness. Or maybe, like Carlos, you have it all but know something is missing. Whatever your challenge, it’s time to give the Bible a chance.
Five Life-Changing Reasons to Read the Bible
#1: Its Author — The Bible was written by 40 different people over about 1,500 years. The amazing thing is that if you read the Bible from cover to cover, you will discover that all the parts harmonize with each other. There is a common theme (God is love!) that runs through the whole thing. That’s only possible if God is the author behind it all. That means when you read the Bible, you actually get to engage in a conversation with the King of the Universe!
#2: Its Story — The Bible tells us the most amazing story there is. From Genesis to Revelation, it records the story of a perfect, loving Father whose children rebelled against Him and accused Him of being selfish, evil, unjust, and unloving, yet who willingly gave up everything to save those rebellious children and show them how truly loving and just He really is. It’s the most stunning story of intrigue, betrayal, redemption, and grace you will ever read.
#3: Its Power — Remember the creation story? God spoke and things appeared. His words are powerful. When you read the Bible and, by faith, accept what God said as true, the power in His words will begin to change you. Carlos is just one of millions of people who have found new life through reading the Bible.
#4: Its Answers — Want to know where you came from? Read Psalm 139:13–18. God’s plans for you? Romans 8:29, 30. What happens when you die? 1 Thessalonians 4:13–17. Why bad things happen? 1 Peter 5:8. Who to be friends with? Proverbs 13:20. How to use your time? Ephesians 5:16. How to get to heaven? John 14:6. You may have to do a bit of digging, but the Bible has answers to every important life question you can ask.
#5: Its Message — The world says you are valuable only if you are beautiful, smart, funny, rich, athletic, or talented. The Bible says you are valuable because God made you and loves you. “But now, thus says the LORD, who created you, … ‘Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine. … Since you were precious in My sight, you have been honored, and I have loved you’” (Isaiah 43:1, 4). Now, that’s awesome!
Transformed by the Bible
Carlos kept reading the Bible—just a chapter a day—but it soon became the highlight of his day. It wasn’t long until he realized that Jesus had endured the cross because of His love for him. He surrendered to that love and became a Christian. Today, Carlos enthusiastically shares what he has learned in the Bible. Now he teaches other people how to understand the Bible for themselves and to share it.
Why not try Carlos’ plan for yourself? Start in the book of Matthew and commit to reading a chapter a day. Make sure you pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance as you read and keep an open mind. Then watch to see what God will teach you.
Want to learn more about why you should read the Bible? Read this article on “The Ultimate Resource, Part 1.”