The King of Books

What can we say about the uniqueness of the Bible? It gets its name from the Greek word biblios (Latin biblia) meaning “book”, so it is simply “the Book”. It is inspired, authoritative, inerrant, sufficient, universal, diverse but unified, and much more. I was reading David Jeremiah’s June 2011 Turning Points magazine and came across this entry by an unknown author. It originally appeared in the October 1891 edition of The Railway Signal, published by the Railway Mission of London, a Christian publication for British railroad workers. The title of the article was The King of Books and provides an excellent view on Holy Scripture.

The Bible is the mind of God, and reveals the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, 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, food to supply you, and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveler’s map, the pilgrim’s staff, the pilot’s compass, the soldier’s sword, and the Christian’s chart.

Here Paradise is restored, heaven opened, and the gates of hell disclosed. Christ is its 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, prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure. It is given you in life, will be open at the Judgment, and be remembered forever. It involves the highest responsibly, will reward the greatest labor, and condemns all who trifle with its contents.

Despite attempts throughout history to ignore, ridicule or even eradicate the Bible, it continues to live on long after its critics go to their graves. It also continues to transform the lives of all who believe and are unashamed of its message (Rom 1:16). Although the heavens and earth will pass away, God’s Word will live forever (Is 40:8, Lk 21:33), continuing to accomplish His purpose (Is 55:11).