Although he’s an atheist, Richard Dawkins admits that the Bible should be taught “because it underlies so much of our literature and our culture.” But, he insists, it should be taught “not as reality. It is fiction, myth, poetry, anything but reality.” TV host Bill Maher cynically quips, “To most Christians, the Bible is like a software license. Nobody actually reads it. They just scroll to the bottom and click ‘I agree.’” I wish these men would seriously consider the insights of brilliant thinkers like C. S. Lewis and Ravi Zacharias who hold the Bible in high esteem. 

And I wish they could meet some of my friends. After a distinguished career as an 

anesthesiologist, Don now serves as the medical director of a large hospital. The Bible guides the way he leads the hospital staff and interacts with patients and their families. Christine is a single mom—bright, funny, and articulate. Her career includes TV news reporting and running her own communications business. Her faith in Christ is fresh, curious, and filled with questions, and she delights in discovering how the Bible applies to her life. Fran became a Christian at the age of 54, and at age 80, she took Hebrew classes for a year to help her better understand the Scriptures. Now in her 90s, Fran decorates the door of her retirement center apartment with Hebrew words that reflect her love for God and his Word. 

Scripture isn’t a dusty old collection of outdated religious rules; it’s a gift that is “God-breathed” and “useful” (2 Timothy 3:16). 

When I am lost, the Bible is my map and my GPS—a compass to point the way.

When I am confused, God’s Word is a filter that helps me sift through conflicting ideas and discern what is right and true.

When I lack self-awareness, Scripture is a mirror that reflects the unvarnished truth.

When darkness descends, God’s Word “is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path” (Psalm 119:105).

When temptation threatens, God’s promises shield my mind and heart. Jesus withstood the devil’s attacks by remembering, “It is written,” and so can I.

“The word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword” (Hebrews 4:12). Like a skillful surgeon, the Lord uses Scripture as his scalpel to make us whole again.

When I was a child, Scripture stirred my imagination with heroic stories about David and Goliath, Daniel in the lions’ den, and Jesus walking on the sea. As an adult, it helps me to face my grown-up giants, lions, and storms. 

The written Word reveals God’s love for me. It points me to the living Word, Jesus Christ, who died and rose again. When I am grateful, Scripture tells me whom to thank. When I am guilty, it shows where I can turn for mercy. When I feel alone, it reminds me the Lord is near. On the day I die, God’s Word will give me hope and comfort those I love. 

Is the Bible relevant? Yes—always! So let’s trust it, treasure it, and put it into practice. Jesus’ brother James got it right: “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says” (James 1:22).

David Faust serves as the Associate Minister at East 91st Street Christian Church in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Lesson study ©2018, Christian Standard Media. Print and digital subscribers are permitted to make one print copy per week of lesson material for personal use. Lesson based on International Sunday School Lesson, ©2013, by the Lesson Committee. Scripture quotations are from the New International Version, ©2011, unless otherwise indicated.