The Barna Group recently completed an interesting survey, which found that the Bible plays an important role in the American armed forces, even for military personnel who aren’t particularly religious. Some service members who do not regularly read the Bible often turn to the Book during difficult times in their service to our country. Researchers found that 37 percent of non-Bible readers in the military read the Good Book when they are looking for comfort; 30 percent read it during a deployment, and 17 percent read it when they are separated from family. These results show that even among folks who are not regularly filled with Scripture, Scripture still brings a source of help that nothing else can provide. Of course, folks who are regular students of God’s Word have already learned this wonderful blessing and continually draw from His Holy Precepts. Interestingly, whether a person is a believer or an infidel, the Bible is truly a Book for all! Consider the following.
Firstly, for the atheist, the Bible is a book of condemnation. The atheist affirms that he knows God does not exist. While any reasonable, logical person understands clearly that statement could never be proven, there are still some who promote this sad theory. However, the evidence for the existence of God is overwhelming! By means of natural revelation (the creation), God has not left Himself without witness (Acts 14:17), so much so that His existence is clearly seen and there is no excuse for someone to not believe in God (Romans 1:20). Therefore, the Bible strongly condemns one who will not look at the irrefutable evidence for God’s existence. Truly, “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God…” (Psalm 14:1a; cf. Psalm 53).
Secondly, for the agnostic, the Bible is a book of conviction. The agnostic declares that he cannot know for sure whether God exists and no one else can know for sure either. However, either God exists, and we can know it (because He revealed it to us), or else He does not exist (and the evidence we have is faulty). There is no middle ground! Because of natural revelation (the creation) and special revelation (God’s Word), we know that God exists. If the Bible is from God, then God exists! For the one who does even a cursory study of the Bible, it becomes abundantly clear that this wonderful Book is not a product of mere man! The harmonious unity, scientific foreknowledge, prophecy made and fulfilled, and much more evidence convicts the agnostic. Agnosticism is a position held by those who have not really, honestly considered the Bible (1 John 1:1-4).
Lastly, for the advocate, the Bible is a book of comfort. For those who have logically examined the evidence, God’s Word is a daily source of help and comfort through life’s struggles. What hope is there in this life if God does not exist? What hope is afforded the one who is not sure of God’s existence? However, to believe in God is to have hope and comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). For those who are burdened, Jesus says come (Matthew 11:28-30). For those facing death, God is with you (Psalm 23:4). When we are so burdened with life that we are not even sure for what to pray, God’s Spirit is available (Romans 8:26-28). The Psalmist knew, “Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart” (Psalm 119:2).
What a Book! God’s Revelation is truly a Book for all. One day, all will be judged by that Book (John 12:48). Therefore, it behooves us to study, seek and submit to God and His inspired Word. “Blessed is the man…” (Psalm 1:1-6).
