I don't read my Bible as often as I should; however, sometimes when I do, I find myself interested in it from more of a historical perspective than a spiritual one. I mean, don't get me wrong, I believe in God and his word; however, I would love to learn more of the history behind some of the people in the Bible. Like a more in depth study of the people behind it...just for educational purposes. Is that wrong? Is the Bible's supposed to be for spiritual purposes only, and not for historical and educational ones?
2006-10-25 11:01:35 · 23 answers · asked by LibraT 4 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
I would go so far as to suggest that an understanding of the historical perspective and context of the Bible and the life and times of it's people is essential for a fuller understanding. It also makes it that much more interesting reading. There are many books to help in this regard and a good commentary and / or concordance would be helpful.
I like you should read my Bible more often than I do. Some people find that a Bible reading plan helps to keep us focused. You'll probably find all these things at your local church, including study groups where you can share your understanding of the Bible with others and they with you.
When the Bible comes alive inside of you, you'll never want to put it down, after all it is such a good book. God bless you.
2006-10-25 11:20:04 · answer #1 · answered by movedby 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You are talking about reading the Bible as if it were any other non-fiction literature, which it is not.
It is not wrong to want to know more than what the Bible says; in fact all Christians are called to learn the deeper meanings behind the words in the Bible.
Yes, the Bible was created only for spiritual purposes, but oftentimes, especially with the OT, one must understand the historical or sociological truths of the Bible to know the spiritual truths.
2006-10-25 11:10:49 · answer #2 · answered by STILL standing 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Search it out completely, in every way. It will only enhance your learning experience and allow you to understand God more. The Bible is supposed to be for everyday purposes, whether spiritual, educational, historical, or recreational. You will never know it all or understand it all when it comes to the Bible, but you will be enriched and your faith will be made stronger as your knowledge of the bible increases. Preachers dissect the bible and read everything that has to pertain to whatever subject parallels their message. God wants you to discover His fingerprint throughout all creation. Seek and you shall find!
2006-10-25 11:06:37 · answer #3 · answered by Jose 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The Bible is an excellent book for studying history, and for education. There's nothing wrong with wanting to learn more. You would be amazed at the wealth of historical data in the scripture.
2006-10-25 11:05:55 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
It is very important to know the history behind God's people. We are, after all, not just spirits yet. We have to address the natural also. The Life Application Study Bible is awesome and give historical facts and insights.
2006-10-25 11:06:28 · answer #5 · answered by 4CHRIST 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No, it isn't wrong. Actually, it's very right.
It's also what you'll find in many, many Bible study groups.
When you know more of the time/place, author, purpose, etc of a book, then you learn more from reading that book of the Bible.
Keep your mind and heart open, and keep asking questions. Grow in your faith.
I believe that the Bible is a "User's Manual" from God. It ALREADY answers so many questions if we'll just take the time to read, study and be open to what it says.
God bless you.
2006-10-25 11:06:05 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Your right on track....The Bible is educational, historical and the guide for which to live by. It might start out being about history and then he will start speaking to your heart and wanting you learn about why this book was to be written and all the stories are to be told and how it is supposed to change lives.
Happy Journey!
2006-10-25 11:09:28 · answer #7 · answered by kymmy_kins 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Definitely not! I'm in a world cultures class at school, and we learn all about the historical context of the Bible. In my opinion, it helps me with the spiritual aspect of the Bible, too!
2006-10-25 11:07:53 · answer #8 · answered by Courtney B 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Me too. I always research the bible to prove that it is true and to know more about the historial backgrounds of the individuals in the Bible. There is nothing wrong with doing outside research at all. For me personally it has helped me to understand the Bible even more as a whole and it has increased my faith in it.
2006-10-25 11:23:29 · answer #9 · answered by . 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No you are not wrong, you should study, see if you can do a web search on History of the Bible..
Also do a web search on fulfulled prophecies of the Bible, this is a very interesting topic too, you can find out when the prophecy was made and when it was fulfilled with 100% accruacy...
Have fun
2006-10-25 11:15:10 · answer #10 · answered by judy_derr38565 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋