Are you reading the Bible the wrong way?

 

1. Read it as history

 

From creation to the early Church, the Bible offers a historical narrative that is unrivalled by any other source. Although mainly focused on the Middle-Eastern region, the Bible delivers a great insight into the different empires that sprung up throughout ancient civilisation. From the Pharaohs to Alexander the Great, a number of notable ancient historical figures are discussed and we can learn a great deal about the way the world has operated in times gone by.

 

2. Read it as a devotion

 

In times of difficulty, there a number of scriptures that can offer great comfort. In the Old Testament, the Psalms offer an authentic voice of human emotion that speaks through the good, the bad and everything in between. In the New Testament there are many great truths that can be found in Paul’s letters about Christ and his love for believers.

Whilst reading devotionally can be a source of encouragement, it’s important to remember that not all of the Bible was written to be used in this way. There are times when portions of scripture were written to a particular set of people, at a particular time, for a particular reason.

 

3. Read it as a story

 

Taken as a whole, the Bible can be seen as a collection of stories that form one metanarrative; the fall of man through Adam and redemption through Jesus. This journey takes thousands of years where we read about God, his relationship with man, the constant thorn that is sin, and ultimately, the need for a saviour. It culminates with Jesus’ death on the cross, but even after that, the onus is placed on believers to then spread the good news. Reading the Bible in this way gives an appreciation of the need for Jesus; as we’re exposed to even the greatest of leaders struggling with doubt, going through difficult circumstances and ultimately falling short.

 

4. Read it as a study

 

With each book being written at different times to different peoples and cultures, reading the Bible in the context it was originally written by understanding the historical and cultural background is a good way to get to the heart of the points that the original author was trying to make. Once you’ve deciphered the original context, the next step is to look at how the point being made can apply to us today. This way of reading is probably the most time consuming, but it allows you to really get to the heart of the text.