Thoughts on Discipleship by Dr. W. A. Dillard - HTML preview

THE WORD OF PURPOSE

The Holy Bible, the cannon of sixty-six books common to the King James Version is the Word of the Creator God of heaven and earth to mankind. Between its covers one finds the origin of man, his cause of condemnation, his means of salvation, as well as his trials, history, achievement of spiritual maturity, security, and hope that is both sure and steadfast. It is the prime directive of the race, and its importance eclipses all other documents combined. Despite criticisms to the contrary, it remains the basis of morals, laws, and faith which has sustained human life on the planet, and allowed governments and society at large to make meaningful progress. Where its teachings are observed, peace and progress abounds. Where its teachings are rejected misery, poverty, death and all manner of evil prevails. Truly, if only one collection of writings could be retained, and all others destroyed, this writer would not hesitate to name his collection to keep as the Holy Bible.

The Bible is not a history book, but it accurately records all one really needs to know about the history of civilization. It is not a science book. That is not its purpose, yet it is supportive of all systematized facts.

Still others say, “Well one can take it or leave it.” Yes, one can take it or leave it, temporarily, but to quote Jesus, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth forth from the mouth of God.” Matt. 4:4. By the Word of God every person has the grace of life, and will by it ultimately be judged. It is alive, sharper than a two-edged sword, and will survive the universal cataclysm that is coming right on schedule. Heaven and earth shall pass away, but the Word of God abideth forever. I Peter 1:23. Its purpose is to give one knowledge, understanding, and wisdom to escape the damnation of sin, and to elevate its disciples ultimately to eternal oneness with the Son of God.

You say that you have a Bible, but do not know its contents very well? That, my friend is the most awesome of responsibilities ignored with eternal consequences that are non-reversible! Open that book! Read! Think! There is enormous purpose in your having a copy of the Bible!

FOR THOUGHT: Most all things in life are accompanied with an instructional manual. The Bible is God’s instructional manual to you about your life and your future. Are you ignoring the most important instructional manual in the universe? Of the 66 books of the Bible, how many can you list that you have read entirely at least once?