This is a Bible Engagement Blog milestone – it’s the 100th post. The Blog was birthed out of a sense of calling to advocate for Bible engagement. I don’t think it’s a cause I would naturally have chosen. It sort of chose me. Yes, I deeply love and appreciate the Word and the One of whom it speaks, Jesus Christ, but what prompted me to start writing was a growing concern about the decline in Bible engagement in the Western world.
When I started writing the Bible Engagement Blog in October 2011, I didn’t know what Bible engagement themes I’d write about or how the journey would unfold. In fact, there have been several times when I thought I’d come to the end of the line – with no creative thoughts about what to write next. But I’ve learnt that those whom God calls, He equips. Time and time again, He’s brought a topic into focus and directed my critique or reflection.
That’s not to say it’s always been easy to write a post. Sometimes, it’s felt like I’m straining gnats and swallowing camels (cf. Matthew 23:24)! But through thick and thin, I still seem to be writing. And I’ll keep doing so until it’s time to stop.
The content of the posts has ranged across the gamut of Bible engagement-related subject matter. Some posts have been more scholarly, some of general interest, and others more technical and research-oriented. Posts have reported on the work of Bible agencies, the Canadian Bible Forum, and the Forum of Bible Agencies. Articles on the latest statistics from Barna, LifeWay Research, Reveal, Canadian Bible Engagement Study, and several researchers have been featured. Biblical passages have been unpacked, definitions considered, Bible reading methods and ways to improve our connections with the Word have been suggested, and a theology of Bible engagement is interwoven through the articles. The interplay between the Bible and culture, the church and the individual, has also been discussed.
Whenever I write, I try to envision who I’m writing to. While I know many colleagues, pastors and Christian leaders read the posts, I’m very aware of the thousands of Christians worldwide who appreciate the articles. I know I don’t write in a vacuum, so I try to say things that resonate with the spirit of sola-scriptura and reflect the views and opinions of other Christians who hold a high view of Scripture.
While I’m a serious minded person, I have to say the writing’s been fun! There’s something about writing that’s very pleasurable and satisfying. And it’s enjoyable knowing that when we exercise our gifts and talents, God uses them to advance His kingdom and bring honour and glory to His name.
So here’s to the next post, and however more may follow!
And here’s hoping that God’s people will be encouraged to live inspired, informed and in line with God’s Word.
For the fame of His name!
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Summary
The Bible Engagement Blog celebrates its 100th post, reflecting on its journey since its inception in 2011, driven by a concern for the decline of Bible engagement in the Western world. Though initially unsure of the themes to explore, the author has been guided by God’s direction in crafting posts on various Bible-related topics, from scholarly insights to practical Bible engagement strategies. Despite challenges in writing, the blog has remained a fulfilling and joyful endeavour, aiming to inspire and encourage Christians to deepen their connection with Scripture. The author remains committed to writing for God’s glory, hoping to continue encouraging believers worldwide.
© Scripture Union Canada
