Why Is the Bible Still Relevant?

Which of the following two statements is more like what you would say?

1. “The Bible connects me to God and gives me the direction I need in my life.”
2. “I’ve read the Bible and it just seems like a bunch of ancient words that have nothing to do with my life today.”

Your background and experience gives you a certain perspective about the Bible. If the Bible has been helpful for you, you’ll probably be positive; if not, then you’ll be negative (or uninterested, or possibly curious).

From a merely human point of view, the Bible is a collection of writings from about 1500 B.C. until A.D. 100, written by approximately 40 authors (some are unknown), collected after these writings became accepted as messages from God by significant leaders and people groups.

The Old Testament records the creation of the world, humanity’s fall into sin, and the story of “God’s people” through the line of Abraham (later called “the children of Israel”).

The New Testament presents Jesus as the long-anticipated Messiah. Most people, including the religious leaders of His day, didn’t recognize Jesus as the promised Savior, so they killed him—but He was resurrected! Jesus returned to heaven and sent the Holy Spirit to be with His people everywhere on earth. The message of Jesus spread like wildfire. God’s people—all who follow Jesus—now live in anticipation of Christ’s return. This gives us a dual-focus, looking back at Christ’s first coming and looking forward to Christ’s return.

With this background, step forward and engage in the Bible for yourself to connect with God. Here are some key steps to take:

1. Pray for the Holy Spirit to make the Bible come alive to you.
2. Read parts of the Bible that speak to your current situation, such as:
   1. 1 John – the impact of Jesus
   2. John – the story of when Jesus was on earth
   3. Ruth – a unique love story
   4. Proverbs – short snippets of wisdom
   5. Psalms – tap into your various emotions
   6. Luke – identify with the marginalized
   7. Romans – wrestle with getting right with God
   8. Matthew 5-7 – try living out what was written here
3. Vary your reading. Read a verse or two and then meditate on it. At other times, read without stopping for a broad overview.
4. Use Scripture to dialogue with God. Read what God said in Scripture. Pray your response to God. Continue the dialogue. Live what God convicts you to do.
5. Engage with Scripture on your own AND engage with Scripture in a small group.

The Bible has communicated to people for thousands of years. It connects people to God and speaks to our human condition. Make this your attitude as you read the Bible: “These [miraculous signs by Jesus] are written so you will put your faith in Jesus as the Messiah and the Son of God. If you have faith in him, you will have true life” (John 20:31, CEV).

For a deeper understanding of the issue involved, we suggest people go to the following link: https://www.adventist.org/en/information/official-statements/statements/article/go/-/holy-scriptures/