February Student Minister Note

Every believer knows the value of Scripture. We know that we should read it, yet often we struggle along, getting lost in civil laws and genealogies, without an understanding of what these passages contribute to the overarching narrative. Scripture tells us that it is inspired by God, that each word reveals his character and that each book tells the story of redemption and restoration that lead to Jesus Christ. 2 Timothy 3:16 says All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” As I have become a student of the Scriptures, I have found that each page brings an intense joy at the literary beauty of it. The bible was not simply written, it was composed- selected, arranged, written, and adapted to create the literary masterpiece of stories, poetry, and prose that is before us today. The journey of Scripture- from Genesis to Revelation tells of sin, or judgement, and from the first page of a coming king and Messiah that will bring restored creation and changed hearts. It is a compelling story that is never ending in richness- even the oldest bible reader will tell you there is more they don’t know about the book than things they do know about it. And yet, so often our experience with this book meant to be mediated on for a life time is snippets of verses from a few select books read as a devotional in the mornings. Our God desires for us to know him, and has gifted us with a wonderful, complex Word in order to draw near to Him. In 2022, I have challenged the youth to read along with me through the Scripture, not only reading through it in the year but to begin to see it as a unified story that points to Jesus and to discover the character of our Savior in it. I hope that you all will join us in this endeavor. Please download the Youversion Bible App. and under “Search for Plan” type in “Tanak Version”. We would love to have you intentionally seeking the face of God through his infallible Word with us!