Anchor Verses:

2 Timothy 3:16-17, 1 Peter 1:21, Hebrews 4:12, Psalm 1:1-3

Focus Statement:

We believe the Bible is God’s authoritative word. Yet, many find it confusing or irrelevant. This disconnect can be healed by rethinking how we approach Scripture—its purpose, structure, and central story.

Introduction:

  • The Bible is God’s word (2 Timothy 3:16–17), therefore authoritative.
  • Many find it confusing or irrelevant despite believing in its authority.
  • Our approach needs realignment to rediscover its value.

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An Issue in Approach:

  • Common (but incomplete) reading methods:
  • As a reference book (facts, theology)
  • As a manual (rules, advice)
  • As a motivational tool (encouragement)
  • Better lens: The Bible is a unified story centered on Jesus, meant to be meditated on (Psalm 1), shaping us into Christlike people.

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The Story (Narrative Arc of Scripture):

  • Creation: Humanity made to reflect God’s image and rule.
  • Fall: We choose self-rule, leading to brokenness.
  • Promise: God chooses Abraham’s family to restore humanity.
  • Israel’s Journey: Growth, rebellion, exile, and prophetic hope.
  • Messiah Arrives: Jesus fulfills promises, institutes the New Covenant through His death and resurrection.
  • Mission Begins: Apostles spread the gospel, form the Church.
  • Future Hope: Jesus will return to restore all creation.

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The Structure (How to Read Each Section):

  • Overview Of the Bible
  • Torah (Law) – Genesis–Deuteronomy
  • Israel’s origin & identity; read with curiosity about God’s heart.
  • Historical Books – Joshua–Esther
  • Story of Israel’s rise and fall; reflect on your own patterns of sin and trust.
  • Wisdom/Poetry – Job–Song of Songs
  • Explore life’s big questions and emotional honesty in relationship with God.
  • Prophets – Isaiah–Malachi
  • Call to return to God; build your messianic expectations here.
  • Gospels/Acts – Matthew–Acts
  • Life of Jesus and birth of the Church; read slowly and let Jesus challenge you.
  • Epistles (Letters) – Romans–Jude
  • Direct teaching and encouragement; best for personal application.
  • Revelation
  • God’s final restoration; focus on hope and Jesus’ return.

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Sermon Questions

  • What approach do I most often take to reading the Bible, and how might that need to shift?
  • How does viewing the Bible as one unified story centered on Jesus change how I understand difficult passages?
  • Which section of Scripture do I avoid or misunderstand, and how can I begin engaging with it differently this week?

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