Is reading the Bible as a book, wrong ?

Question

I mean, it's wrong to read it just like if it were another book of history, novel or anything else?

Answer 1

Reverence is not required from those who do not believe. You will not believe if you are not exposed to the Bible, or it's message in the first place. Exposing yourself to it may result in belief, which might require reverence, but until then - reading the Bible will return to you only what you put into it. There are some people who read the Bible looking for ways to cut it down - and they find those ways. Reading it to enjoy the story-line is perfectly okay.

Answer 2

I think that the Bible is meant to be a read as a book. Any book you read, you should take something from it. Some of the stories and lessons from the Bible are very relevant to different people at different times of their lives. There's nothing wrong with relating a basically third-party novel to your life. I say read it anyway you want!

Answer 3

I remember that I was like really impressed when I went to see V For Vendetta. At one part in it, a man's collected a lot of things that are illegal and punishible by death in this strange new world: artwork making fun of the political leaders, photography of gays, and even a Quran. He's asked if he's Muslim. "No. But do I have to be to find the illustrations beautiful, the poetry moving?" That's the right attitude.

I'm an atheist but I've read some of it. Granted, its hard for me because I see a lot of badness in there, but even I came across some interesting parts. My younger bro is a priest now, and he's the same way. Besides the fact that there's much in there he disagrees with, he's read a ton of other religions texts so if someone came up to him with a problem, he could counsel them in their own religion. Now that's a priest I'm proud of.

Reading it as a book isn't a problem. We should never be afraid of books or language. If it reinforces your secular side or gives birth to religious inspiration, either one is cool. The real problem is when you're done...how do you get rid of it? I mean, you can't throw them away. Selling it at a yard sale won't work and you'd have to be slick to somehow "return" it to Borders. Just a heads up, but you might have to move. ;)

Answer 4

Well, not exactly but in order to properly understand any literature you must ready for what it is. For example, you wouldn't read poetry the same way you read a newspaper article. Otherwise they wouldn't make sense. The same goes for the comics and novels. If you treat them all the same you'll misunderstand a lot.

In the end, if you want to fully understand the bible you must take it for what it is. The Word of God. Also, remember, the bible is a collection of books, different types of books, and you must take that into consideration when you read them.

Answer 5

The Bible is well worth a read, even if you're not a Christian. May I also recommend The Life Of Christ by Ernest Renan, which discusses Jesus, not as the Son of God, but as a historical figure like Julius Ceaser or Alexander The Great. It's a fantastic study, and I think Christians and non-Christians would enjoy it.

It's free to read on christianwritings.net

Answer 6

No, there is nothing wrong with reading it like a book. It is not actually a book but a collection of sixty-six books. And it is more than a book. Not only does it discuss history, art, language, etc but it gives details surrounding God's plan for the world and His love for those who dwell in it. So, read it and learn from God and His prophets and apostles about His will for your life.

Answer 7

The Bible is a book - just as the Quran, The Book of Mormon, the Bagivad Gita, and the Talmud are books.

Read them all, as books. It is your right and a freedom you should hold dear to your heart.

And, if you read them all, you will have a better understanding of what is driving terrorism, racial hatred, relegious extremism (including bot Musim and Christian), sexism..... the list goes on forever.

You may become an expert on hate, if you read all the religious books as books.

You can be open minded. God gave you reason - it is your most precious gift. God wants you to reason - so read, read, read.

Answer 8

for me reading a Bible is same like u reading ur favourite books e.g. novel etc, its juz that u need to put ur attention on every words u read and try to figure it out especially words that can give u encouragement.

Answer 9

I dont think so,but it would be best if you decided to have a possitive attitude befor you start,with a open heart.The bible says that The word of God does not come back void,so exspect to have heart changes.Reading Gods written word is one of the best things you can do for your self and your life.I hope you read it!

Answer 10

It is truly an amazing history book! I find if I pray before I read it, I can understand so much more of it!