These words from the famous hymn by Anna Warner are a staple of our Christian tradition. What else does the Bible tell you? When did you last do an in-depth study of the scriptures? What do you know about how the New Testament was put together, why there are only four Gospels, and why they are so different?

     These are not trick questions. They are questions you will find the answers to if you spend time reading through the text with helpful guides. You might want to ask, what difference does any of that make if it’s the Word of God? The scriptures are a Living Word. That is, they continue to teach us. Each time we study a part of scripture we discover three things that lead us to a new understanding: What the scripture is communicating about God; What the scripture is communicating about humanity; What the scripture is communicating about the relationship between God and humanity. We do not just read the text and take it at face value. We study it. That means we look at the history of the text, what we can learn from the context in which it was written, who wrote it, why (if we know) it was written. 

     One of the most fascinating and inspiring parts of studying the scriptures is the understanding that the Truth of God remains the same while our understanding changes. God’s Truth is wide and deep. The Bible is not a manual that we read and then take a test. Each time we open it, we are to make room for the learning that the Holy Spirit will guide us toward. 

     In March, I will begin a new Disciple Bible Study class. We will take 12 weeks to explore the New Testament. The cost of the manual is $20. The recommended Bible translation is the Common English Bible, though any translation can be used. Session 1 will begin on Wednesday, March 4 at 6:45- 8:00 p.m. You will need to register and order your book through the Church Office by February 24. We will meet on Wednesdays throughout the Spring. 

     Disciple is a wonderful way to encounter the scriptures, whether you have been reading through the Bible for many years or are brand new to it! Not only will you learn about the scriptures. You will also learn about God’s desire for your life. It’s a faith changer. 

Pastor Carol