How to read the Bible
by Theron F. Schlabach, Goshen, Ind.
In "How to Read the Bible" (Dec. 1, 2009), Myron Deckert put the matter exactly right. If simplistic, flat reading of the Bible just won't do, we still need to find another way to read it appreciatively, seriously, profoundly. We, that is, who as people and as church have committed ourselves to follow Jesus Christ.
By far the main source for leading Jesus' disciples—to understand him and the God of whom he taught—will always be the Bible. Such understanding, as best we can, comes above all through biblical history, biblical literature and biblical covenant (both personal and corporate).
Fortunately, we have wonderful help in the Believers Church Bible Commentaries. I have found them invaluable both intellectually and devotionally. They lead us to understand the many forms Scriptures take—written narrative, oral tales, poetry, history, prophecy, exhortation, parable and more—in ways that helps us extract rather than dismiss the biblical message. They set Scriptures in cultural and historical context in a manner that enhances understanding rather than sinking our faith into relativism. They offer the Bible and biblical commentary as supreme sources for our discipleship but without making the Bible an idol. Working with them, we remain committed to Jesus and Jesus' personal, loving, reconciling God, not to a book. Yet we continue to understand what an indispensable treasure the Bible is for our faith and our faithfulness. So thank God for Myron Deckert’s article and for the Believers Church Bible Commentaries.
Associated Issue: Jordan: An oasis of peace - Dec. 1, 2009
Associated Article: How to read the Bible
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