The Bible is granted to us to tell the story of God's relationship with creation and with humans. Its purpose is to reveal God to us.
Paul wrote to Timothy, "But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction and for training in righteousness that the man of God many be competent, equipped for every good work" (2 Timothy 3:14–17).
The above passage is probably the most well-known, most concise explanation of the purpose of the Bible.
Here are some others:
"How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word" (Psalm 119:9).
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path" (Psalm 119:105).
The Old Testament tells us how God created the world, men and women, and instituted relationships with people and with the nation of Israel. It shows His power and care and forgiveness. It reveals the character of God and points to the ultimate sacrifice of His Son Jesus Christ.
The New Testament gives accounts of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John). John tells us why he wrote his Gospel: "Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name" (John 20:30–31).
The New Testament shows us the beginning of the church, history of the early believers, and gives us the God-inspired letters from early leaders to others that helped guide and teach them—and will help guide and teach us.
Throughout both the Old and New Testaments we are given glimpses into the future—of when Jesus will return and of the new Heavens and new Earth.
The Bible gives us a powerful weapon against the attacks of our enemy. Jesus gave us that example when He was tempted and responded with Scripture each time (Matthew 4:1–11). Ephesians 6:17 says the Word of God is the sword of the Spirit and useful in standing against spiritual attack.
The Bible gives us perspective on our life here on earth, and the life to come.
Hebrews 4:12 says, "The word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of south and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart."
We can benefit from the counsel and the power of the Bible, but we must remember the primary purpose of the Bible is to reveal God, His character, and His desire to have a relationship with the people He created.
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