LESSON FIVE: THE BIBLE
1. THE BIBLE IS
a. The Bible is a collection of 66 books which have been
divided
into two parts that we refer to as the Old __________ and the New
__________.
How many books are in each part?
b. The Bible is an ancient document written by people over a period spanning hundreds of years. There are no original copies of any of the books because those who copied the books would properly dispose of the worn out originals. The oldest copies of books date back over 2,000 years, and there are more ancient copies of the Bible than any other historical document.
c. The Bible is a collection of books which has been translated into English and dozens of other languages. The oldest books were written in Hebrew and the New Testament books were written in Greek. Modern English translations are the most accurate being translated straight from the Hebrew and Greek.
d. The Bible is a library of various types of writing; history, poetry, prophecy, and instruction.
2. THE BIBLE IS A SPECIAL BOOK
a. It contains the Word of God given through prophets.
Hosea 1:1
b. It is the work of the Holy Spirit guiding prophets.
2 Peter 1:21
c. It's purpose is to lead you to faith in Jesus Christ.
2 Timothy 3:15
d. The source of the Bible's message and teachings is
God.
2 Timothy 3:16-17
e. It has the power to change people's hearts; their thoughts
and attitudes. Hebrews 4:12
3. THE BIBLE IS THE FINAL AUTHORITY FOR CHRISTIAN FAITH AND
LIVING
a. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 lists four things the Bible is useful
for:
1.
2.
3.
4.
b. The Bible is so essential for the Christian that it is
described as the one thing that a Roman soldier must have at all
times?
Ephesians 6:10-17
c. In Psalm 19:7-11 we find a poem praising God's Word as the
most
precious thing in the world?
More precious than what?
d. According to Psalm 119:11 how does treasuring God's Word in your heart help you?
APPLICATION QUESTION: Can you think of any instances in
your
life where knowing what the Bible says helped you out?
SUGGESTED READING: Psalm 119:89-112