This article is a part of a mini-series called Christian Basics 101: Reading Scripture. It is also a part of a larger series called Christian Basics 101, where we look at four aspects we can grow in our Christian walk: (1) Reading God’s Word, (2) Prayer, (3) Witnessing, and (4) Fellowship.

"You should meet my friend. I think you two would get along well and enjoy each other’s company." Have you ever introduced a friend or relative to someone in your circles that bloomed into a deep and meaningful friendship? This is what it feels like being a witnessing Christian. We are constantly inviting people to meet the person they never knew but would thoroughly enjoy. We invite Christians and non-Christians alike to get to know God through his divinely inspired words.

Do you meet with God through his word? Here are a few reasons why you should read your Bible:

They are words of God

A documentary on Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls recently came out. I tried to find it online, but everywhere I looked, I could only find others discussions on what they watched. The commentary was insightful, but what I really wanted was to enjoy the actual show. 

One of the reasons to read Scripture is because it is the words of God. Unlike commentaries, or sermons, or books that talk about God, Scripture itself is the very words of God.

No, I am not knocking reading church history or other helpful books; I have hundreds of resources that I use regularly. But I do advocate communing with God through his word; and I would argue: "Why would you want to just read about the source when you can go to the source?" In other words, read both. But don't be content with being a "second-hander." If we want to know God, we must go to his word and read what he says about himself.

All Scripture is inspired by God. . . so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

2 Timothy 3:16 CSB

They are words for transformation

Unfortunately, many have taken a moralistic-therapeutic-deistic approach to reading Scripture. Moralistic, in the sense that they want the Bible to either change their or another person's behavior. Therapeutic, in which they can find self-help so they can become "the best version of themselves." And deistic, acting as if God is distant from their daily life. 

We serve a God who created this world and is advancing his kingdom. He promises to make all things new. And he promises to make us new in him. Through the Spirit and his word, he transforms his people from the inside-out.

Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.

John 17:17 ESV

They are words for life

God's words are life-giving. It answers the "big questions": What is my meaning and purpose of life? Where did I come from? Is there life after death? Is there a God?

It also shows that God loves us and desires us to be in his family. In his word, he gives us the path to joy and peace. He gives us life eternal. He gives satisfaction and life to the fullest.

As believers, Scripture brings nourishment to our souls. Jesus taught us that, "Man does not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4). In the same way that God sustains our very life and breath, we are dependent on his word for spiritual food and drink. 

The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul.

Psalm 119:7 NIV

Question

These are just a few reasons why we should read the Bible. What reasons would you add to the list?