People study the Bible for different reasons. In academic circles, many are applying new methodologies to study the Bible. Liberation theology, feminist theology, LGBTQ ideology, and other theories are used to interpret the scriptures. Sometimes the lens the scholar chooses warps the perspective on the Bible. The spin on the story subverts the meaning. To be clear, the Bible can’t mean today what it never meant.
In Jesus’ day, the Pharisees read the scriptures as a list of rules. Not only did they profess to keep the law but they also wanted to make sure that everybody else kept the law. As a result, they turned the word of God into a legalistic document to condemn others. John tells us that Jesus acknowledged their diligent study and then pointed to the truth.
The scriptures testify about Jesus. He wants to give us life. A good reading of scripture points us to Jesus so that we go to him and find life. We are almost 7/8 of the way through with our Bible reading for this year. Soon we will sign up to read through the Bible again. After we get through the Bible, will we be able to say that it got through to us? This is the measure of progress. Study the scriptures to find Jesus. When you find him, ask him for life. The One who came back to life can bring us to life. This is a good reason to study the Bible.
