Words are containers into which we pack ideas. Every field of study has own special set of words – its own vocabulary. At the moment we are introducing “the word of God.”
We often write things down so we don’t forget. We may write things down for permanent record of events, of contracts, agreements, ideas. Written documents can be duplicated for broad dissemination.
A library allows collection of a broad range of documents. It allows numerous documents of related ideas to be grouped together. When a subject is researched we try to collect several books and other documents about that subject. Each one contributes to understanding. Often common themes stand out strongly. There may be contrary ideas. A different approach or nuance may be uncovered. To not draw on numerous resources may leave our understanding both limited and biased.
The Bible is such a library. The Bible is sometimes addressed as the word of God. It is a collection of history, biography, instruction, agreements, and various literary forms. There are numerous contributors writing over many centuries. It brings together a broad range of resources from a broad range of personalities, experiences, history.
It may be said that God is the chief editor. “…Prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit” 2 Peter 1:21. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” 2 Timothy 3:16. 17.
The Bible is loved by some. It is hated by others. It has endured like no other. Many biographies attest its power. History attests to its influence. Archaeology attests to its accuracy. It continues to be the runaway global best seller. Historically 5 billion copies (Guinness world records) have been printed. Some 38 million whole Bibles were distributed by Bible societies in 2018. The number becomes increasingly fuzzy due to soft downloads and on-line access.
In Genesis 2 it is recorded that God provided a tree of decision, a small point where man was allowed access to alternative ideas to His design and intention. To not allow such choice and options would bring the title of tyrant to Him. That is not Him.
In Genesis 3 we see the opening of a contest over God’s word. “We may eat the fruit of the trees of the garden; but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God has said, ‘You shall not eat it, nor shall you touch it, lest you die.’ ”
“Then the serpent said to the woman, ‘You will not surely die. For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil’” Genesis 3:2-5. Adam thought it of interest to look into the proposition. As is said – the rest is history. Indeed, history is the lab report of the benefits of the proposition – of the knowledge of good and evil.
As a result there is wonderful mix of good and bad ideas. Of truth and deception. God’s word, though contested, still stands. His love, His grace, His options remain available and on display. The purpose of this set of nuggets is to be a concise introduction to several themes in this contest of ideas.