THE VALUE OF THE BIBLE

“The Bible is a vein of pure gold, unalloyed by quartz or any earthly substance. This is a star without a speck; a sun without a blot; a light without darkness; a moon without its paleness; a glory without a dimness. O Bible! It cannot be said of any other book that it is perfect and pure; but of thee we can declare all wisdom is gathered up in thee, without a particle of folly. This is the judge that ends the strife, where wit and reason fail. This is the book untainted by any error; but is pure, unalloyed, perfect truth.” — Charles Spurgeon.

“What is your most valuable possession?” Immediately, your mind may scroll through a balance sheet that lists all of your possessions. If you are like most people, you may consider your home, business, or investment portfolio to be your most valuable assets. There are many possible answers, such as family heirlooms, photographs, and life in general, but would the Bible make the list?

People go to great lengths to access and read the Bible, including overcoming physical and political barriers. Owning, printing, importing, or distributing the Word of God in hostile or restricted nations can result in being arrested or even killed. Governments and groups opposed to Christianity impose harsh penalties and deadly punishment in attempts to stop evangelism and Bible distribution. Individuals and organizations smuggle Bibles into countries where they are banned or restricted, often facing significant risks in the process. In countries with strict internet censorship, individuals may use technology, including VPNs and encrypted communication, to access online versions of the Bible or to share digital copies.

The writer of Psalm 119 says that the Word of God has more value to him “than millions in gold and silver” (119:72). He even says that “My life constantly hangs in the balance, but I will not stop obeying your instructions” (119:109). Do we speak about the Bible in such terms?

The Bible is a tool given by God to help individuals develop a personal relationship with Him. Through studying the Bible, individuals can gain insight into God’s nature, His will, and His plan for humanity, thereby fostering a deeper connection and understanding of Him. While the Bible wasn’t written to you (we’re not the original audience), the Bible itself says it was written for you. The authors of Scripture made it clear that God was speaking to them and through them—more than 3,000 times they said, “Thus saith the Lord” or its equivalent. And because “God inspires all Scripture ” (2 Timothy 3:16), when you open these pages and read these words, you can do it with the confidence that this is God’s message for and to us.

In summary, the Bible is the inspired Word of God, a source of truth, and a guide for living a righteous life. It is a source of wisdom, comfort, and strength, and a means of encountering God. What can be more valuable than that?

Discussion Questions:

1. What value do you place on the Bible, and how does that value manifest in your daily life? 
2. Why is the Bible considered the most precious thing we can hold?