The Bible: Understanding God’s Word
📖 “The whole Bible was given to us by inspiration from God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives; it straightens us out and helps us do what is right.” — 2 Timothy 3:16 (NCV)
Lesson Objectives
– Understand what the Bible is and why it matters.
– Learn how the Bible was written and preserved.
– Gain practical steps to begin reading and studying it.
– Recognize how the Bible speaks personally to your life.
Let’s Talk: Why the Bible?
Jesus said, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4)
That means your spirit needs nourishment just like your body does. Food keeps your body alive, but God’s Word keeps your soul alive.
The Bible is not just a book—it’s God’s living Word, alive and active.
Think of it this way: just as your body needs daily bread, your spirit needs daily Scripture. The Bible is your lifeline—it nourishes, strengthens, and guides you.
What Is the Bible, Really?
– 66 books written by more than 40 authors over about 1,500 years.
– Two main parts:
• Old Testament – God’s covenant with Israel, history, law, poetry, and prophecy.
• New Testament – The life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus and the birth of the Church.
– Though written by many people, the Bible tells one unified story: God’s plan to redeem humanity through Christ.
Illustration: Think of the Bible as a library, but with one Author—God—speaking through many voices.
Why Can We Trust the Bible?
The Bible is not a myth or a legend—it is rooted in history. Archaeological discoveries continue to confirm the people, places, and events recorded in Scripture. From the Dead Sea Scrolls (which match our modern Old Testament with remarkable accuracy) to unearthed cities like Jericho and Nineveh, the spade of the archaeologist consistently supports the reliability of the Bible.
Historical Accuracy
– Thousands of ancient manuscripts confirm the Bible we have today is reliable. No other ancient document is as well preserved.
– Fulfilled Prophecy – Jesus’ birth, life, death, and resurrection were predicted centuries before they happened in amazing detail.
– Changed Lives – For over 2,000 years, people from every culture and nation have been transformed by its truth. The Bible doesn’t just inform—it changes hearts.
Archaeological Examples
– The Dead Sea Scrolls — preserved for over 2,000 years, proving the accuracy of our Old Testament Scriptures.
– The Pool of Bethesda (John 5) — once thought to be a myth, uncovered in Jerusalem with “five covered porches,” exactly as John described.
– The Pilate Stone — discovered in Caesarea Maritima, confirming Pontius Pilate’s role as governor during Jesus’ trial.
– Noah’s Ark (Mount Ararat, Turkey) — some believe the remains of the Ark have been found here. While not universally confirmed by archaeologists, it continues to be a powerful testimony to the global flood account found in Genesis.
Analogy: The Bible is like a lighthouse. Storms come, waves crash, but the light remains steady—reliable to guide ships safely home.
How to Read the Bible
(Without Getting Overwhelmed)
– Start with the Gospel of John. It introduces you to Jesus in a clear, powerful way.
– Pray before reading. Ask Holy Spirit to help you understand.
– Choose a clear translation. NCV, NLT, or ESV are all beginner-friendly.
– Take your time. Don’t rush. Even one verse can change your day.
– Meditate or journal daily. Write down what stands out, even if it’s just one thought.
Tip: Reading the Bible is like eating—don’t try to swallow the whole thing at once. Take small bites, every day.
Real Talk: When You Don’t Understand It
It’s okay to have questions! The Bible is deep, and some things will take time to understand. What matters is that you keep showing up.
📖 “But the Helper will teach you everything and will cause you to remember all that I told you. This Helper is the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name.” — John 14:26 (NCV)
You are not reading alone—Holy Spirit is your Teacher.
But you’re also not walking this journey alone. That’s why we created the Manna Room inside the Manna for Life Learning Center. It’s a place to ask honest questions, share what you’re learning, and be encouraged by others who are on the same path. When something in Scripture feels confusing, sometimes just talking it through with other believers makes the light bulb turn on.
👉 Don’t isolate. Dive into the Word, lean on Holy Spirit, and connect with your community. Together, we grow stronger.
Discussion Questions
Action Step
This week, begin reading the Gospel of John—one chapter per day.
After reading, write a one-sentence takeaway: “What did God show me today?”
Key Verse
📖 “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” — Psalm 119:105 (NCV)