There has been much discussion in regards to the value of the Bible in a Christian’s life. These discussions have produced interviews, books and scholarly journals in attempts trying to answer this. Many have posed the question: should the Bible be read or studied by those who call themselves Christians? As a Christian Bible reading is a part of daily life. It is what is expected. So why should the Bible be studied if already reading it and trying one's very best to do what it says?
What determines a person is a Christian?
A person is determined to be a Christian when he/she acknowledges that Jesus Christ is the son of God. Not just that but also that Jesus being the very son of God came down to earth humbling Himself taking on human form to save all mankind from their sins. Also understanding and acknowledging Jesus Christ was crucified and on the third day rose again redeeming all mankind from their sins if their belief rested in His very existence and sacrifice. Through the confessing of your belief you have acknowledged openly that you are a professed Christian.
The very creed of the Christian faith comes from John 3:16 (NIV) “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
How is this determination Factored?
The Christian faith and its beliefs are derived from the Bible. The Bible clearly lists seven steps according to scripture verses on how to become a Christian.
- Admit you are a sinner: Romans 3:23 (NIV) “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
- Realize that without salvation you will die: Romans 6:23 (NIV) “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
- Confess your sin: 1 John 1:9 (NIV) “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
- Repent of your sins and turn from them: Luke 13:3 (NIV) “I tell you, unless you repent, you too, will all perish.” Acts 2:38 (NIV) “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.
- Accept the gift of grace: Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV) “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith-and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-not by works, so that no one can boast.”
- Believe that Jesus died on the cross for your sin: Romans 5:8 (NIV) “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this; While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” John 3:16 (NIV) “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whoever believes in Him shall not perished but have eternal life.”
- Confess with your mouth: Romans 10:9-10 (NIV) “If you declare with your mouth, Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.” Romans 5:1 (NIV) “Now since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God.”
The Significance of the Bible
As stated above the Christian faith stems its very essence from the pages of the Bible. The Bible is the guide on how to become a Christian and live successfully as a Christian. Therefore in this light to read the Bible alone is only a means of information. Putting what you read into practice is the act of following through on the principles of the Christian faith.
If an athlete wants to become number one in his/her skill they must study the best techniques and apply them. The athlete must also know the skills of their competition so as to know in what ways the competition can be defeated. This is the same way with the Christian faith; the Bible is the guide to developing strong skills and learning how to defeat the enemy of the faith. Reading the Bible alone and not studying it will result in no growth as a Christian.
If a Christian believes Jesus is the Son of God and that the Bible is the inspired word of God then each and every one should study the Bible to show him/herself an approved workman of God (can be found in 2 Timothy 2:15). Reading the Bible is a start, studying the Bible and applying it into one’s life is the walk.
Source
- Zondervan NIV Study Bible. Fully rev. ed. Kenneth L. Barker, gen. ed.
- Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2002. Print
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