For some of us, reading the Bible can seem intimidating. Should I read it cover to cover? What does this really mean? What does this have to do with me?

Sometimes, we need to shift our perspective and look at things through a different lens. God’s Word is not some outdated collection of ancient texts. It is the heritage of the children of Israel, the treasured story of His chosen people – that’s us! 

When we start to view the Bible as one big meta-narrative, we see this cycle repeating itself throughout history: God makes a covenant, His people disappoint him, yet He keeps His promises and He is always faithful. 

From way back in Genesis, God’s word was pointing ahead to Jesus and the hope He would bring to the people of Israel. He came as a child in Bethlehem to fulfill the scriptures of old and to live out God’s plan to redeem all of creation. Jesus is the denouement of this great meta-narrative. His life, death, and resurrection form the beautiful, victorious culmination.

But the story is far from over! You and I are a part of the ongoing narrative of the people of God; we are living out the “next chapters”, which have been carefully mapped out by a loving author who has called us by name and written us into His book of life. 

On those days when the future seems unsure, we can look back to God’s word and be reminded that His faithfulness has endured throughout generations. God never changes; He will continue to fulfill His covenant promises for His children. It’s all documented in His story – our story! And what a beautiful story it is.

Do you tend to view the Bible as a compilation of individual stories, or as one big “meta-narrative”? 

 

Are there certain chapters or sections of the Bible that you skip over, or others that you frequently revisit? 

How might we encourage you as you seek to better understand God’s story and its meaning for your life?