Articles
WAS THE BIBLE WRITTEN TO BE UNDERSTOOD?
by Garland M. Robinson
It is very common today for people to say "we cannot understand the Bible alike." Such a statement is often offered in defense of the more than 400 different denominations that exist in the world. People want their own way and expect God to be happy with it.
I certainly do not want to be one who blames God as being the author of such confusion. First Corinthians 14:33 says, "For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints." It is not God's fault when people do not understand nor follow the Bible. The Bible was written to be understood. The apostle Paul, being inspired of the Holy Spirit (cf. 2 Timothy 3:16-17), wrote to the church at Ephesus so they would understand the Revelation (Will, Word) of God. "How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)" (Ephesians 3:3-4). He was writing so they would understand what had been revealed to him concerning the "mystery of Christ." The mystery of Christ was that which had been previously unknown in Old Testament times (verses 5- 11). Now, could they understand what he wrote or not? Yes, they could understand, for the very purpose in writing it was so they would understand the Will of God! Since they could understand it, can't we?
The letter to the church at Colosse was to be understood and forwarded to other congregations so they would read and understand. "And when this epistle is read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and that ye likewise read the epistle from Laodicea" (Colossians 4:16).
The books of the New Testament are to be read everywhere. "I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read unto all the holy brethren" (1 Thessalonians 5:27). Why read the Word of God if it cannot be understood as some contend?
Jesus prayed that all who believe would be "one", that is, united (John 17:20-21). Was Jesus praying for the impossible? According to what many believe today, Jesus did not know that people could not see and understand the Bible alike. The fact is, Jesus knew we must see the Bible alike if we expect to be pleasing in his sight.
Following the scriptures will unite those who love God, not divide them. How dare anyone say we cannot understand the Bible!
