The Bible is Meant to Be Read!

Philosopher John Locke claimed that we are born with a tabula rasa or "blank slate," and that all of mankind is born with an innate understanding of morality. This can be easily seen simply by looking at the moral similarities throughout cultures. No culture has ever existed that has embraced cold blooded murder, stealing, lying, or cheating as virtues while at the same time condemning courage, integrity, and honor as vices. All of us "know" that what Hitler, for example, did was wrong. This is because we're all born with an understanding of morality. The source of this knowledge comes from the character of God. It's part of what goes into being made "in the image of God," as the Bible reads.

A person can have a basic understanding of morality, and can even go so far to think that humanity itself is not intrinsically "good." These conclusions can be made apart from Scripture. However that's really only a starting point. The Bible is necessary. One cannot witness to people and lead people to faith without heavily relying on Scripture.

People have been led to Christ because of the example of a believer. As Christians, we should shine the light of Christ in everything we do. The Holy Spirit can convict people and open their eyes to their sin simply through the example of another believer. These are all important things.

We can look for a formula but God is bigger than that. He doesn't just work in one particular way. However, it is clear that Scripture - the Bible - is the primary way in which God communicates. Indeed, Scripture is a gift from God, and out foundation for everything as Christians. Everyone is encouraged to read the Bible regularly and to pray that the Holy Spirit will lead you to a true understanding of your salvation in Jesus Christ.