Max Lucado - Life Lessons from Mark: A Life-Changing Story

T he Bible is a peculiar book. Words crafted in another language. Deeds done in a distant era. Events recorded in a far-off land. Counsel offered to a foreign people. It is a peculiar book.

Its surprising that anyone reads it. Its too old. Some of its writings date back 5,000 years. Its too bizarre. The book speaks of incredible floods, fires, earthquakes, and people with supernatural abilities. Its too radical. The Bible calls for undying devotion to a carpenter who called himself Gods Son.

Logic says this book shouldnt survive. Too old, too bizarre, too radical.

The Bible has been banned, burned, scoffed, and ridiculed. Scholars have mocked it as foolish. Kings have branded it as illegal. A thousand times over the grave has been dug and the dirge has begun, but somehow the Bible never stays in the grave. Not only has it survived, but it has also thrived. It is the single most popular book in all of history. It has been the bestselling book in the world for years!

There is no way on earth to explain it. Which perhaps is the only explanation. For the Bibles durability is not found on earth but in heaven. The millions who have tested its claims and claimed its promises know there is but one answer: the Bible is Gods book and Gods voice.

As you read it, you would be wise to give some thought to two questions: What is the purpose of the Bible? and How do I study the Bible? Time spent reflecting on these two issues will enhance your Bible study.

What is the purpose of the Bible?

Let the Bible itself answer that question: From infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus (2 Timothy 3:15).

The purpose of the Bible? Salvation. Gods highest passion is to get his children home. His book, the Bible, describes his plan of salvation. The purpose of the Bible is to proclaim Gods plan and passion to save his children.

This is the reason why this book has endured through the centuries. It dares to tackle the toughest questions about life: Where do I go after I die? Is there a God? What do I do with my fears? The Bible is the treasure map that leads to Gods highest treasureeternal life.

But how do you study the Bible? Countless copies of Scripture sit unread on bookshelves and nightstands simply because people dont know how to read it. What can you do to make the Bible real in your life?

The clearest answer is found in the words of Jesus: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you (Matthew 7:7).

The first step in understanding the Bible is asking God to help you. You should read it prayerfully. If anyone understands Gods Word, it is because of God and not the reader.

The Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you (John 14:26).

Before reading the Bible, pray and invite God to speak to you. Dont go to Scripture looking for your idea, but go searching for his.

Not only should you read the Bible prayerfully, but you should also read it carefully. Seek and you will find is the pledge. The Bible is not a newspaper to be skimmed but rather a mine to be quarried. If you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then youwill understand the fear of the L ORD and find the knowledge of God (Proverbs 2:45).

Any worthy find requires effort. The Bible is no exception. To understand the Bible, you dont have to be brilliant, but you must be willing to roll up your sleeves and search.

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15).

Heres a practical point. Study the Bible a bit at a time. Hunger is not satisfied by eating twenty-one meals in one sitting once a week. The body needs a steady diet to remain strong. So does the soul. When God sent food to his people in the wilderness, he didnt provide loaves already made. Instead, he sent them manna in the shape of