"In them (the Scriptures) ... we become acquainted with the character of God. Our eyes are divinely opened to see what a lovely Being God is! And this good, gracious, loving, heavenly Father is ours - our portion for time and for eternity." --- George Mueller

 

 

             Now doubt you have already received many helpful tips and advice for making life better and more fulfilling in 2009.  May I add one more? In the memorable words of John Wesley, I challenge you in 2009 to be a homo unios libri, a man or woman of one book--- Holy Scripture.  According to many researchers no time could be better; for many are claiming that we live in an era of rampant Biblical illiteracy. 

 

             Al Mohler writes: “Researchers George Gallup and Jim Castelli put the problem squarely: ‘Americans revere the Bible--but, by and large, they don't read it. And because they don't read it, they have become a nation of biblical illiterates.’ How bad is it? Researchers tell us that it's worse than most could imagine.

 

             Fewer than half of all adults can name the four gospels. Many Christians cannot identify more than two or three of the disciples. According to data from the Barna Research Group, 60 percent of Americans can't name even five of the Ten Commandments. . . .
            

             According to 82 percent of Americans, ‘God helps those who help themselves,’ is a Bible verse. Those identified as born-again Christians did better--by one percent. A majority of adults think the Bible teaches that the most important purpose in life is taking care of one's family. . . .

 

             A Barna poll indicated that at least 12 percent of adults believe that Joan of Arc was Noah's wife. Another survey of graduating high school seniors revealed that over 50 percent thought that Sodom and Gomorrah were husband and wife. A considerable number of respondents to one poll indicated that the Sermon on the Mount was preached by Billy Graham. We are in big trouble.” (Taken from Dr. Albert Mohler Jr., “Commentary”, October 14, 2005).

 

             While these words were written a few years ago, I suspect that Dr. Mohler’s commentary still holds true today.  So, what can we at Lycoming Centre do about it?  Here are a some obvious, practical ideas:

 

             1. Read the Bible in a regular, systematic way.  Make sure that the Bible does not get overlooked in favor of more “interesting” or “relevant” reading.  One thing’s for sure-- The Bible is fascinating, disturbing, offensive, sweet, alarming, comforting, stretching, shocking, controversial and strengthening. No way is anything else in our culture today that interesting.  So let’s put the Bible front and center and let it do its thing, whatever the impact. There are terrific reading plans available on-line. See http://theologica.blogspot.com/2008/12/bible-reading-plans.html. There are several you can download in a bookmark format and be quickly on your way. 

 

             2. Memorize the Bible together in a Sunday School class or small group. This can be fun, and it provides not only accountability, but a moment of connectedness and participation together.

                                                                                                                     (Continued on page 2)

Biblical Illiteracy

What Can The Church Do About It?

LYCOMING CENTRE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

Centre News

FEBRUARY 2009

Volume 2009,  Issue 2