The Bible, God’s Word (John 1:1), as referred to by our Rector at the beginning of a recent Rector’s Forum, has been handed down by word of mouth as a collection of religious texts, writings, and scriptures sacred in Christianity, Judaism, and many other religions. It is written in the form of an anthology, a compilation of texts of a variety of forms that are all linked by the belief that they are the revelations inspired by God. The oldest extant copy of a complete Bible is an early 4th-century parchment preserved in the Vatican Library, and it is known as the Codex Vaticanus.

Who wrote the Bible? According to both Christian and Jewish history, the first five books and the Torah were written by Moses in about 1300 BC. Religious doctrine holds that God himself is the author or at least the inspiration for the entirety of the Bible. It was inscribed over a millennium-long sequence by various humble writers. But this is not why we should study the Bible. The Bible is a compilation of carefully chosen texts which millions and millions of people have read, studied, and used as the pathway for their lives, leading to a better eternal life which they cannot see except through a faith that has been received by grace. “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” (Hebrews 11:1) Can you think of a better reason to study the Bible? The moment that we come to Christ for salvation is attributed to us as justification, an amazing transaction. The next process is sanctification, a process by which we grow in practical righteousness––to be more like Jesus by humble loving care for others as we grow our faith in Him.

St. Philip’s Church offers to each of you, listed in St. Philip’s inSPIRE calendar, four men’s weekly Bible study groups, four women’s Bible study groups, and one co-ed Bible study group. Studying the Bible in small groups offers many personal faith-building benefits:

1. The opportunity to share with others how the Holy Spirit reveals the Scripture message to you.

2. The experience of creating a bond with others in an environment where you feel safe to seek advice on life’s challenging events.

3. The opportunity to develop friendships with those who share your faith and love.

4. The chance to offer encouragement and advice to other group members who may be hurting and needing prayers for healing and support.

5. The experience to share moments of joy with others when prayers are answered, challenges are overcome, and victories achieved.

6. An understanding of what it means to develop a passionate commitment to Christ and how that can transform your individual life, your family life, and your corporate (church and work) life.

7. Learning how to rely by faith on the inexhaustible resources of God in the power of the Holy Spirit when faced with difficult choices.

8. Experiencing the knowledge from studying the Bible that creates wisdom and discernment.

9. Sacrificing self to serve God and others to advance the cause of Christ in a troubled world.

10. And, there is much more to be experienced that will draw you closer to God.

St. Philip’s Church offers this wonderful opportunity to you in addition to the inspiring teachings from our clergy. You are in the right place at the right time. Reach out and accept this gift!