Jesus told His first followers to announce His good news worldwide and to train and disciple people to live and love as He taught. One way they did that was by writing. Gradually, their words were collected, called the New Testament, and added to the ancient Jewish writings that Jesus often called the Scriptures. Together, they are called the Bible.

The Bible is much more proclamation than explanation. It wasn’t written and collected so we can use it to explain, debate, and justify our religious opinions about theological details about God.

The Bible was written to announce what God has done and is doing. Its purpose is to invite us to experience and surrender to His presence and reality. “O taste and see that the Lord is good.” (Psalm 34:8)

Let the Bible lead you to the tree of life, not to the tree of knowledge. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Bible analysis and systematic theology won’t save and satisfy your soul. “Christ in you, the hope of glory,” will! (Colossians 1:27) Let the Bible train you to experience, be aware of, and obey the risen Jesus throughout each day. (Matthew 28:20)

Refuse to treat the Bible like a religious textbook. Instead, continually read, absorb, and let it consume your heart like a love letter from God to you. Let it always keep you focused on experiencing and being led by Christ’s presence and love.