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In today's society, that's a real good question. If you do study it, people are quick to jump on your every word if you mention that you do, especially if you try to apply what you read. And especially if they hold themselves out to be some sort of spiritual guide. They mock you, laugh at you, call you self-righteous, try to get others to join them - all because you try to better yourself.

So, why bother? Because none of those people matter in the long run. Because studying the Bible opens you up to an entirely new way of living. A better way of living. A happy, joyous way!

I found a sermon by a Presbyterian minister that is one of the best "apologies" for reading the Bible that I've ever come across. Dr. John A. Huffman, Jr., of St. Andrews in Newport Beach, CA titled his sermon, WHY SHOULD I TAKE THE TIME TO STUDY THE BIBLE?

I am existentially reminded of what it takes to be a pilot. At what point does a person become a good pilot? Is that person a good pilot at the point when one makes the decision to become a pilot? Of course not! One has to learn how to be a pilot. It makes no difference how emotionally excited one is about becoming a pilot. One may have a commitment to aeronautics that is steadfast. But beyond that, one needs training. That pilot takes flight instruction. He studies a manual. Finally, he solos and then builds up the experience of in-flight hours and further study. At last, the day comes when he is employed by an airline. He is not immediately given the full responsibility to sit in the left seat of his aircraft. He continues to learn in a subordinate role. The day eventually comes when he becomes a captain. Has he arrived now? No! He continues to learn, to be taught. He has to keep up on the manuals, on flight regulations, on changes in equipment. He has to know the rules and the regulations. He has to understand the equipment. It is absolutely essential that he learns the doctrine, the teachings of his profession.

Exactly! The decision is just the first step. Learning the faith requires reading the manual, studying the manual, applying the manual to your life. And if people make fun of you for that, so what?

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TexKraut   |2008-05-07 16:35:49 That's a great analogy, Big. Thanks for posting it. The people in the world who look down on Christians do matter, though. After all, Jesus died for them as well as us. However, the fact that they look down on us and mock us does not matter. Jesus told us that would happen. What matters is that we are not to judge them (that is only God's domain) but we are told to try to win them over. Granted most are unwinnable (the narrow gate) but we are not the ones who decide who goes through it. Many of the world's worst have eventually found the Lord, and I believe they are just as saved as I am. It's what Christians do with their lives after "the decision" that counts, how they grow in their faith. The fact is we are ALL sinners who are saved by the grace of God, so none of us can boast about it. There is so much more that I could write about, but I suppose this should do for now. Reply | Quote

BigJolly   |2008-05-07 17:14:12 You're right, TK, and I agree that they do matter. They do not matter enough to stop doing what you know is right, however. And I think that happens sometimes. I've been teaching/leading men for some time now and I've seen it happen. It is particularly hurtful when other self-professed Christians do it. I realize that is their problem, their lack of maturity, their willingness to follow the crowd. But realizing it doesn't make the pain any less. Why don't these people, as you just did, lift others up? Why must they continue to try and bring others down to their level of immaturity with snarky remarks? As for writing, write on! Here, there and everywhere. Christians need to put forth the message that you just did - we are all sinners saved only by grace. Reply | Quote

TexKraut   |2008-05-07 18:01:41 Agree with you, Big, it really does hurt Christians' testimony (by their example) when they follow the world's ways. I believe it is a serious sin when we become stumbling blocks to others who are not believers or are immature believers. I've been guilty of it myself, and it does grieve me. I have to keep reminding myself of Romans 12:2, not to be conformed to this present age, but be transformed (become a new creature in Christ) by the renewing of my mind, which is a constant process of aligning myself with the Lord Jesus. It is surely a constant struggle, but for those who choose that path, there is MUCH joy in it, as you obviously know. On the other hand, when we do the right things, even when they go against the world's ways, we are giving a tremendous testimony, one that is most likely not spoken but is surely observed by others. That's what we should all strive to do, even though we are bound to sometimes stumble ourselves. We are watched by others when we pick ourselves up and carry on in trying to live our faith. Sometimes that's the only Bible some people may see, and I think God uses that to draw people to Him. That's why it is so important! We just never know when we are being used by God in the lives of others that He is calling. BTW, just read the full sermon. Awesome. The goal of my entire life is in the very last sentence. Reply | Quote

BigJolly   |2008-05-07 19:40:35 I know what you mean, TK. My favorite Romans scripture is in chapter 7, because I am one that knows what to do but does the wrong thing anyway. Sometimes. Getting better at that by applying what I've read. Not perfect, as some would say, just better. That sermon is really good. Most people don't read links, I learned that quite a while ago. But that one is worth reading. I stumbled upon it while searching for something not related at all. I think I'll read it again, it really brightened my day! Reply | Quote

american woman   |2008-05-31 05:51:24 I agree that one must read the manual to be able to operate. I compare it to a banana. The more I pray and study, the more layers are revealed, or the more I understand. I think that's God's way. He gives us what we can comprehend, and more is given as we progress. Sometimes I step away.... I can't put my finger on what makes me do this...... but I will. However, I find my self going back to my morning bible study. It's like something is missing if I don't. Sometimes I think I am like a small child, just being stubborn by not doing it..... but I am only hurting myself. I am a sinner trying to overcome the earthly pull and do right......I can't do that without my bible. Reply | Quote

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