The year of 1911 was filled with praise for the Holy Scriptures. The media was overwhelmed with references to the Bible and the authority of God! Can you guess why? The King James Version of the Bible (Authorized Version of the Church of England) turned 300 years old! Well, in 2011 the KJV Bible turned 400! I watched throughout the year to see if the media covered this event. Not a lot was said about this occurrence. Curious, isn’t it?
In December the National Geographic (12/11/11) chose to dedicate a large portion of their publication to discuss the origins of the KJV. I encourage you to get a copy of it to see how the Bible has been translated and preserved through the years. There are some very interesting things in those articles.
While most of you know I'm not a huge fan of the KJV, I do have a profound respect for what it did in the course of human history. Over 3000 years ago Solomon said that "of making many books there is no end" (Ecclesiastes 12:12). Many books deserve respect, but a special reverence should be reserved only for the 66 books which originated in heaven, the Holy Scriptures. No matter which translation you read.
We understand the dangers of adding or to subtracting from the words of the Bible (Deuteronomy 4:2, 12:32, Revelation 22:18-19). It is a Holy Book! David, who was privileged to be one of God's penmen, once said, "The Spirit of the Lord spoke by me, and his word was in my tongue" (II Samuel 23:2). King David chose to magnify the integrity and the purity of heaven's communication to mankind. He also said, "The words of the Lord are pure, as silver melted in a furnace, refined seven times" (Psalm 12:6) and "Forever, O Lord, your word is settled in heaven" (Psalm 119:89).
David's son Solomon, who was also privileged to write three inspired books, said, "Of all inspired books he wrote: Every word of God has proven to be true" (Proverbs 30:5) and "Do not add to his words, lest he rebuke you, and you be found false" (Proverbs 30:6). Do you know where Solomon learned this respect for Scripture? At home. From his father, David. What are you teaching your children about the Bible?
In his translation of the Greek, and additional commentary, Hugo McCord noted that Paul wanted the Corinthian Christians to "learn through us [the inspired apostles] not to regard men more highly than what is written (I Corinthians 4:6, FHV). Great teachers understand this terrific responsibility of teaching others to respect the Scriptures. Have you heard it said, "The Bible says it. I believe it. That settles it."? What a great concept to adopt! I want to encourage you to read your Bible in 2024. Cover to cover! Read it and study it. Make this be the year you gain a profound respect for the Holy Scriptures and deepen your relationship with our Lord.
Have a great week!!!
You are loved.
Dr. Ray Reynolds
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