Under the title, “Bible 101,” The Oklahoman (May 7, 2008, 6E) gave some facts concerning a survey related to the U.S. and eight European countries. Portions of the data gleaned from the survey were encouraging. “More than 90 percent of American households have at least read one copy of the Bible.” Also, three out of four Americans had read at least one Scripture over the previous year, which compared to only one out of four Spaniards who had manifested that much interest in God’s Word. Another part of the survey related to seven basic questions concerning the Bible’s contents and authorship. The Polish people showed the highest level of Bible knowledge, resulting in 20 percent answering all seven correctly; 17 percent in the U.S. answered all correctly; with an overall 15 percent average by all the countries related to the survey.
It is encouraging first that a survey related to the Bible was taken; second, that a high percentage of Americans own a copy of God’s Word; and third, that a good number do periodically look into Gods’ Word. Of course, all the foregoing is just a human measurement that relates to a small percentage of the humans who currently occupy the earth.
A far more sobering test is what God’s Word gives as a challenge concerning it and how the peoples of earth should relate to it! Paul used the imperative mood (spoudason) on how we are to study, or give diligence, to show ourselves approved unto God, being people who can handle accurately the Word of God (II Timothy 2:15). Peter uses another imperative (epipothesate), when he exhorts us to desire earnestly God’s Word, as a newborn baby desires milk (I Peter 2:2). The human survey related to how some noted Scripture once a year, whereas the Bible itself affirms it is imperative we desire it like a newborn babe. At last report, that results in a cry for it about every four hours each day—night and day!! The Psalmist informs us that one who hopes to be blest, and really delights in God’s Law, meditates on it “day and night” (Psalm1:1f) Jesus adds that the only way to fully live (Gk. Zao) is by God’s Word (Matthew 4:4).
In view of the Bible’s statements and standard, when I consider the fact only about 50 percent (at best) of the members of Christ’s blood-purchased church show up for Bible classes, that “Bible 101” survey leaves me with mixed emotions!!! Were YOU in Bible Class this Lord’s Day?? Were YOU in Bible Class Wednesday evening?? Do YOU want to really live??