Week 1

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE BIBLE

 

As we begin our journey through the story of the Bible, we want to start with the importance of scripture. Understanding the necessity of reading Scripture is paramount to developing the discipline of regularly and intentionally engaging in Bible reading. The Bible is God's revelation of Himself. Everything we need to know about the character and nature of God is contained within it. Most importantly, from beginning to end, the Bible is the story of God's redemptive work among humanity. The Bible is the story of a loving God creating humanity, humanity rebelling against God in sin, and God sending His Son in order to bring us back to Himself. The Bible is the most magnificent piece of literature, the greatest story ever written.

For that reason, we start with Psalm 119, the Bible's longest, most passionate description of itself. It is also the longest chapter of the Bible, which is reason we divided it into several readings throughout the week. Psalm 119 talks about a love for the words of God, running to them as the means of life - eternal life - in the midst of the brokenness of the world around us. "My soul clings to the dust; give me life according to your word!" (Psalm 119:25). This is our prayer for the coming year: may each of us grow in our love for the Bible. More importantly, may we each grow in our love for the Author. May we run to God's Word because it points us to the source of eternal life, Jesus Christ, the Savior. 

FOR MORE ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF THE WORD, WATCH THIS VIDEO FROM JOHN PIPER AND THE DESIRING GOD BLOG

FOR THIS WEEK's SERMON ON PSALM 119, LISTEN BELOW:

FOR AN ADDITIONAL PODCAST ON THIS WEEK'S CONTENT, LISTEN BELOW

FAMILIES

Psalm 119:1-18

Living in this world can sometimes feel like walking on a tightrope. It can be fun and exciting, yet scary, and sometimes even terrifying. Whatever our experiences, the Bible, God's Word, provides a light to keep us from stumbling. Jesus is the Living Word who is always beside us, never leaving us, and always ready to guide us in our next steps. Reading God's Word is the basis of the foundational ingredient called Knowing God. We can be assured that our relationship with God will deepen as we commit ourselves to reading His Word. He is worth it. The time and effort are worth it. Taste and see that the Lord is good. Psalm 34:8

FAMILY QUESTIONS

  1. What makes this book different from any other book? 
  2. The word "blessed" in vs.1-2 could be thought of as "the good life"-- life as it is meant to be lived, in harmony with God and His purposes for us. What kind of person is described as "blessed" in these verses? Where can we find the guidance and help to live that kind of life? 
  3. In verse 5, what does it mean to be steadfast? 
  4. In verse 11, the writer shares a secret to keep us from sin. What is it? 
  5. How can we "get God's Word into our heart?" 
  6. According to verse 18, what should we ask God to do when we read the Bible?

FAMILY ACTIVITY

Supplies: soft blanket(s), masking tape, glasses (cover lens w/ plastic wrap).

Activity 1: Say, "The Bible is a book that's different than any other book because God wrote it. Living life in obedience to the Bible draws us closer to Jesus." Have everyone wrap up in the blanket. Say, "This is how close Jesus wants to be with us. He loves us so much. The Bible tells us that." 

Activity 2: Make a line on the floor with tape. Family Challenge: walk on the line without stepping off. (Older kids challenge - hop on one foot.) Try again, holding someone's hand. Which time was easier? Say, "If we want to live our lives steadfast, without falling, the Bible tells us how." 

Activity 3: Put on "plastic wrap glasses". Try to read the first three words of Ps.119:18 with glasses and without. Discuss the verse. Say, "Why can we see more clearly when we read the Bible with our eyes wide open and ready?" Pray, asking God to open our eyes when we're reading the Bible so we can see and hear what He wants to show us. 

SMALL GROUP

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

A principle in the Bible is a timeless truth succinctly stated. It is a short, practical statement of truth drawn from a passage, used to guide our lives. Principles can cover broad statements of truth that universally apply to every situation we face. When we look at Psalm 119, there are many principles. As you look back at this week’s reading, which principle was most meaningful to you?