Session 2 - Open the book

Ice-breaker

What do you most enjoy reading?

Why the Bible?

Have you read any of the Bible yet? How did you find it?

Why is the Bible so important that we are making it the first topic of this course?

What the Bible is

The Bible consists of sixty-six books written independently by forty different writers over a period of approximately 1,500 years (1450BC-AD90). It is a library, not a single book. It contains history, prophecy and poetry, and includes the writings of kings, politicians, prophets and shepherds. All of life is there.

Take a quick look at the following passages - check the Contents list if you're not sure where to find them. What types of literature are represented?

The Bible is the record of God at work in history. The Old Testament shows this particularly in relation to the nation of Israel.

Think of a well-known incident in the history of Israel. Then list a few of the major characters in the Old Testament. You may already know more than you realise.

God revealed himself to us through the prophets, who told the people of their day how God wanted them to live (see, for example, Amos 5:12-15). He later spoke through Jesus who showed us how it is possible to enter into a personal relationship with God.

Why read the Bible?

Look up 2 Timothy 3:16-17.

We are told that all scripture is 'God-breathed'. What do you think this means?

What does this same passage tell us about the effect of scripture on our lives?

If this has been your first experience of a group Bible study, how did you find it?

The Bible is a book that can be studied, but knowing it backwards does not mean that you know the author. Try to hear God's voice speaking to you personally as you read.

Help with reading the Bible

Reading the Bible does not come easily, especially at first, but there are ways to tackle this.

What version?

What Bible versions are we using in this group?

We would recommend that you get hold of a good modern version rather than the traditional King James. The New International Version is very popular, but there are alternatives. The important thing is to find the one that suits you best.

You can also listen to the Bible on cassette - for instance, when you're driving or doing the ironing. These days you can even see the stories recreated on video.

Where to start?

Oddly enough, the best place to start is not necessarily at the beginning! You could try reading Luke and Acts in the New Testament for an appreciation of the life of Jesus and the story of the early Christian church.

When to read?

It is important to develop a regular habit of Bible reading, but there is no single right or wrong way. It should be a delight for you, not a tyranny. Don't bite off more than you can chew - and try to enjoy it!

What time of day and place do you think would suit your personality and lifestyle best?

Bible aids

The Bible is not a difficult book, but sometimes we do need a little help to understand it fully in its context. Remember that it was written in the context of a culture very different from our own.

The following can be helpful resources:

• Bible reading notes

• Bible background books, such as The Lion Handbook to the Bible

• Study and chain reference Bibles

The Bible is a dynamic book. As you read it, you will find yourself changed by it!

Your choice (Home study option)

Read Luke 10:29-37.

Have a look at this well-known story and think about it on your own.

Why do you think Jesus told this story? What has it got to say to us today?

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