Why does the Bible exist? What is its purpose? These questions make for some very interesting and lively discussion. Here are a few of the ideas that people throw out in response.
- The Bible is God’s rule book.
- The Bible is a manual for life.
- The Bible is a code of ethics.
- The Bible is God’s plan for man’s salvation.
- The Bible is a history book.
This list is by no means exhaustive. Maybe you have of thought of the Bible in these terms. And certainly, these are partially true, but they don’t give the big picture.
Jesus actually weighed in on the subject. In one of His many conversations with the Pharisees, He had this to say:
You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me, yet you refuse to come to me that you may have life. John 5:39-40 (ESV)
The Bible is God’s testimony concerning His Son. From start to finish, it is the story of Jesus. He is the key to understanding the Bible, both the Old Testament and the New. He is God’s word to man.
Why does the Bible exist? Jesus gave the answer. The Bible bears witness about Him.
What is the Bible’s purpose? So that we may have life in Him.
The next time you read the Scriptures, keep Jesus’ words to the Pharisees in mind. You’ll realize you are reading His story.