Today, the Bible is under attack on many different fronts. Last month, we began a special study on the Bible. This month, we continue and conclude that study.
Paul wrote to Timothy, "Bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas when you come and the books, especially the parchments." {2 Timothy 4:13} The Greek terms for "books" and "parchments" are BIBLIA and MEMBRANAS. Actually, these terms refer to the materials on which they wrote. Among the Greeks, the papyrus roll came to be known as "biblos." When the word was translated into Latin, it was considered to be singular, BIBLIA. Our English word Bible means "the book." The story is often told concerning the great writer Sir Walter Scott (author of Ivanhoe). On his deathbed, he said to a friend: "read to me from the Book." His friend responded, "from which book should I read?" Mr. Scott's reply-"There is but one book; read to me from the Bible."
Some have referred to the Bible as "the book of books." Consider a quote from Dr. Willard D. David's volume, "Evolution and Revelation. "This old book contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its histories are true, its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, and its decisions are immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveler's map, the pilgrim's staff, the sailor's compass, the soldier's sword, and the Christian's character. Here, paradise is restored, heaven is opened, and the gates of hell are disclosed. Christ is the grand subject, our good its design, and the glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently, and prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, a river full of pleasure. It is given to you in life, will be opened at judgment, and will be remembered forever. It involves the highest responsibility, rewards the greatest labors, and condemns all who trifle with its contents. The Bible comes to man in his sin, sorrow, and darkness, to offer him what he has never been able to find elsewhere. With world-wide, age-long, incessant search, humanity has never found any remedy for sin. It is enough for us to know that the Bible has never failed man in his darkness and despair. There is not one broken promise on its pages. The Bible story is so infinitely massive and sublime that master minds of all ages have been compelled to study it in wonder. God only could have been the author of such a volume."
Dr. David is not an inspired writer, but his thoughts are worthy of consideration by those who believe the Bible is just another book. In this final half of our special series, we intend to show why the Bible is unique among all books already written, or yet to be written. More than any other book, it is vital that man consider and understand the Bible. Only in God's book, can we find true answers to life's questions. Because It was given by the one who created this world and all that is in it, it is timeless. Who would know better the things men need to know to survive in this life and prepare for the next one? Mr. David is right on the money-only God could have authored such a book! Amen!!!