Why Is Reading the Bible So Important?

Many Christians begin each new year with a plan to read through the entire Bible over the course of that year. Some reach that goal, but most don’t. Then there are others who don’t even bother to read God’s Word at all. Is this issue really a big deal? Why is it so important to read Scripture on a regular basis?

Knowing God

First and foremost, the Bible is essential for knowing God and His will for our lives. The book of Romans tells us there are certain things we can know about God from general revelation. Without Scripture people can know about God’s power and divine nature by examining creation (Romans 1:20). They also know God’s law because it is written on their hearts (Romans 2:14–15).

However, there is a vast difference between knowing about God and personally knowing God. Everyone knows about God, which is why you are without excuse if you reject Him, but only a fraction personally knows Him. The Bible is the foundational truth that teaches the history of the universe, the origin of sin, the reason for death, morality, and so on. Apart from God’s Word, mankind would never learn the all-important message of salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Knowing God’s Will

The message of eternal salvation is a vital and dominant theme in Scripture, but the Bible reveals much more—including how God would have us live. Through the recorded examples of biblical figures we can learn what pleases God and what does not. His Word also gives direct instruction to believers on how we should act in every circumstance.

God’s inspired and inerrant Word was given for many reasons: to teach us, rebuke us, correct us, and instruct us in righteousness; it was also given so that we may be complete and equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16–17). By reading the Bible on a consistent basis, you can find direction for your life and learn how to best serve the Lord who gave His life for you.

The best way to learn about the past is to read the eyewitness account of someone who was there. God gave us such a record of creation. Ken Ham explains in this clip from Always Ready, part of the Foundations DVD series.

Knowing God’s Word

Reading through the entire Bible provides an opportunity to better understand Scripture’s “big picture.” At the same time, we must be careful not to read the Bible just for the sake of doing it.

Reading through the entire Bible provides an opportunity to better understand Scripture’s “big picture.”

How can we present ourselves approved before God? We need to diligently study His Word so that we acquire an accurate understanding of it and then faithfully act upon the truth (2 Timothy 2:15).

Studying the Bible requires careful and prayerful attention to the text and the correct application of biblical principles of interpretation. By studying God’s Word, you can not only more fully enjoy the wisdom God gives, but also bless your family and friends by sharing the fruit of your labor.

Making God’s Word your authority in every area is vital for defending against the many spiritual attacks facing Christians. “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear” (1 Peter 3:15).

We encourage you to read the whole Bible if you never have before. If you have already read through the Bible, then we would urge you to consider studying Scripture in more detail by concentrating on one passage per day. Continue thinking about that passage throughout the day and try to think of ways to apply what you have learned.

Don’t forget to spend time in prayer. Thank God for giving you eternal life and His Word. Ask Him to teach and guide you so that you will become even more faithful in following Him.

Commit to read and study God’s Word regularly in order to better know God, His Son, and His will.