The Bible is
incomparable in its transformational effect on human hearts, behavior, and
society. Having survived more than a thousand years of persecution and
ridicule, today the greatest threat it faces is not the malice of outside
enemies but the neglect of God's own children. Most Christians revere the
Bible, yet few habitually read it. There are many reasons for this, but one
essential problem is a lack of intentionality in approaching Scripture
systematically.
This lesson will explore
four strong reasons why believers should make a commitment to reading through
the Bible on a regular basis—whether annually, biennially, or triennially.
Before we look at these reasons, let's first talk about some disturbing trends
regarding Bible reading among Christians today.
The Bible Reading Crisis Among Christians
Recent studies reveal
troubling statistics about Bible engagement among believers. According to the
American Bible Society’s annual State of the Bible report, there has been a
noticeable decline in Bible reading, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. This “COVID
Bible Effect” has not reversed, leaving many Christians disengaged from
God’s Word.
Similarly, a Pew Research Center study found that only
45% of Christians read the Bible at least once a week. While the
definitions of “Christian” and “weekly reading” may vary, the overall trend is
clear: many believers struggle to consistently engage with Scripture.
The Church suffers as a
result. A lack of biblical engagement weakens the body of Christ, making it
vulnerable to life's storms and doctrinal errors. The solution is systematic
reading of the Bible.
Four Reasons to Read Through the Bible
This lesson will focus on the unique advantages of reading through the Bible systematically, not the general benefits of studying the Bible. So here are four reasons to do it:
- To Know the Breadth of the Logos
- To Fight Knowledge Decay
- To Sharpen Exegetical Skills
- To Develop Healthy Bible Habits
1. Knowing the Breadth of the Logos
The Logos is the
totality of God's revelation in Scripture. This revelation has
breadth—certainly the wide range of topics covered, but also depth—the layers
of understanding within each topic. Both are necessary for spiritual growth.
- The Heavenly Standard
In the perfect, heavenly
state, believers would have perfect knowledge of the breadth and depth of the
Bible. However, this is impossible to achieve on earth, yet we are called to
strive for both. Systematic, cover-to-cover Bible reading ensures a familiarity
with the breadth of Scripture, even if primary emphasis is not placed there.
- A Common Misconception
Some will say it is
better to have deep study in a few passages rather than to read the whole
Bible. Deep study is necessary, but it shouldn't replace a broader reading
plan.
Illustration: It is like going to a buffet with all kinds of
dishes. The server will ask you to taste a little of each before you decide
what you will eat. If you only eat one dish, you miss the variety of the entire
meal. So, if you neglect the breadth of Scripture, you miss out on the full
counsel of God's Word.
Both approaches are
necessary—reading regularly for breadth and studying with focus for depth—for a
balanced spiritual diet.
2. Fight Knowledge Decay
The human mind is
forgetful. The truths we once knew can fade over time without regular
reinforcement. Systematic Bible reading helps combat this natural decay by
refreshing our knowledge.
- The Weakness of the Flesh
Think of this: Can you
tell me what God made on the fifth day of creation without looking it up? If
not, it is a reminder of how easily we forget details. Reading through the
Bible regularly keeps the breadth of Scripture fresh in our minds.
- Be Comprehensive
While it's essential to
dig deep into specific topics, a comprehensive approach prevents gaps in our
understanding. A balanced reading plan keeps the entirety of God's Word alive
in our hearts.
3. Sharpen Your Exegetical Skills
Exegesis is the process
of interpreting Scripture accurately. Familiarity with the breadth of the Bible
sharpens our ability to understand individual passages in their proper context.
- Avoiding Misinterpretation
Misinterpretations often
result from studying verses in isolation. For instance, a person who is very
knowledgeable about one portion of Scripture but ignorant of another may
develop a narrow or incomplete understanding.
- Biblical Example:
In Acts 18:24–26, Apollos is described as an eloquent and
knowledgeable teacher who only understood the baptism of John. His depth was
commendable, but his lack of breadth limited his teaching. Aquila and Priscilla
helped him to acquire a more complete understanding of God's Word.
Application: Just like Apollos, we must balance our depth
with breadth. A normal reading of the whole Bible equips us to understand the
Scripture in the right sense and avoids our giving narrow interpretations to
it.
4. Cultivate Healthy Bible Habits
Developing a consistent
Bible reading habit requires discipline, devotion, and commitment. This
practice will not only enrich our spiritual life but also deepen our
relationship with God.
- Discipline and Devotion
Success in any area of
Christian endeavor—be it prayer, Bible reading, or service—requires
wholehearted commitment. God wants all of us, not just part of us.
- Building a Balanced Plan
Systematic Bible reading
encourages balance and organization in our study habits. It helps us approach
Scripture with intentionality, ensuring we engage with the entirety of God’s
Word over time.
The One Thing Needful
Above all, regular Bible
reading draws us closer to Jesus. In
Luke 10:41–42, Jesus commends Mary for choosing the “one thing
needful”—sitting at His feet and feeding on His Word. This practice remains
essential for every believer today.
Practical Steps to Start Reading Through the Bible
If you’re ready to
commit to systematic Bible reading, here are some practical steps to get
started:
- Choose a Plan: Select a reading plan that fits your schedule,
such as a one-year, two-year, or three-year plan. Many resources are available
online or in Bible apps.
- Set a Schedule: Set aside a specific
daily time for reading the Bible, such as morning, evening, or during lunch.
- Pray for Illumination: Ask the Holy Spirit to
enlighten the Word and guide your understanding.
- Monitor Progress: Use a checklist or app
to keep track of readings in order to stay motivated.
- Stay Accountable: Join a group or find a partner that shares your commitment to systematic reading of the Bible.
Conclusion
Systematic reading
through the Bible is one practice that makes a big difference in helping
believers grow in knowledge of God's Word, fighting forgetfulness, sharpening
interpretive skills, and inculcating healthy spiritual habits.
Let's commit to 2025 together as we resolve to
engage more intentionally with the Scripture. Thus, we are going to be stronger
in faith and able to live out God's purposes for our lives.
