Why should we read the Bible?
Christians have countless reasons to read the Bible—strength for hard days, guidance for wise living, hope for hurting hearts, and growth in spiritual maturity. But beneath all these reasons lies one that rises above the rest: we should read the Bible to know and meet with Jesus.
Every story, poem, prophecy, and letter ultimately points us to Him. Jesus Himself declared, “These are the very Scriptures that testify about me” John 5:39. If we miss this, we miss the heart of Bible reading. The Bible isn’t merely a book to study; it’s a place to encounter the living Christ. Here are several compelling reasons—centred around knowing and meeting with Jesus—why opening the Scriptures should be a daily priority for every believer.
1. We read the Bible because life is hard and we need Jesus.
Life brings grief, confusion, unanswered questions, and seasons of loss. When Martha stood beside her brother’s tomb, she didn’t cling to platitudes—she clung to a Person. In one of Scripture’s most beautiful declarations of faith, she said, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God” John 11:27. Her strength sprang from knowing who Jesus is.
When life collides with our beliefs, we need more than inspirational quotes. We need the rock-solid truth of God’s character revealed in His Word. The Bible anchors us in Jesus, who promises never to leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). So, we read the Bible to find the Saviour who walks with us through every valley.
2. We read the Bible because it leads us into true worship.
Psalm 119 describes Scripture as a treasure of delight, wisdom, and joy. But delight comes through deep engagement with Jesus, not hasty encounters. Jesus told the Samaritan woman that true worshippers “worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth” John 4:23-24. How can we worship in truth if we don’t know the truth God has revealed?
When we open the Bible, we honour the Father by seeking His Son. Scripture reading becomes worship because it draws our hearts into the reality of who God is and what He has done through Christ.
3. We read the Bible because others need the Jesus we meet there.
Christianity isn’t a solo experience. We’re called to “encourage one another with psalms, hymns and songs from the Spirit” Ephesians 5:19. But meaningful encouragement requires more than quoting verses and applying them like band-aids. It requires understanding how Scripture points us to Jesus and how Jesus meets us at our point of need.
When we’re saturated with God’s Word, we can speak truth that heals, comforts, strengthens, and restores. Our brothers and sisters need our Scripture-shaped wisdom, and that wisdom comes from meeting Christ in the text.
4. We read the Bible because a lost world needs real hope.
We live in an age filled with skepticism, suffering, and strife. People have deep, honest questions. Peter urges believers to “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect” 1 Peter 3:15. Note the phrase “give an answer.” Our opinions or sentiments shouldn’t influence our responses. They must be advised by the truth of Christ found in Scripture. When we know the Bible, we can offer the hope that only Jesus provides—the hope of forgiveness, purpose, and eternal life.
5. We read the Bible because people need us to lead them to Jesus.
Older Christians carry a holy responsibility to pass on the faith. Titus 2 highlights this beautiful intergenerational calling. But how can we teach the next generation to follow Jesus if we’re not daily learning from Him ourselves?
The wisdom needed for marriage, parenting, vocation, purity, and perseverance doesn’t come from culture, social media, or our value systems. It comes from the boundless wisdom of Scripture. Paul reminds Timothy that “the Holy Scriptures … are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” 2 Timothy 3:15. Note the phrase “through faith in Christ Jesus.” The more we immerse ourselves in the Bible, the more faithfully we can lead others to Jesus.
6. We read the Bible because it transforms us into the likeness of Jesus.
Paul confronted the Corinthian church over their spiritual immaturity, likening them to infants who should be ready for solid food (1 Corinthians 3:1-3). Likewise, Hebrews says that mature believers have their “powers of discernment trained by constant use” Hebrews 5:14.
Scripture is God’s tool to shape our minds, purify our hearts, and strengthen our discernment. As we study the Word, the Spirit applies it to our lives, transforming us “into his image with ever-increasing glory” 2 Corinthians 3:18.
7. We read the Bible because it brings deep, lasting joy in Jesus.
The Westminster Confession famously states that humanity’s chief end is “to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.” Scripture is the pathway to that joy. Psalm 16:11 declares, “You will fill me with joy in your presence.” And where do we encounter God’s presence? In His Word, illuminated by His Spirit, centred on His Son.
The more we drink deeply from Scripture, the more we taste the joy of knowing Christ now, and prepare our hearts for the day we’ll worship Him forever.
Every reason to read the Bible ultimately leads to one truth: we open Scripture to meet with Jesus. He’s the centre, the fulfilment, and the heartbeat of God’s Word. Without Him, Bible reading becomes a hollow discipline. With Him, it becomes a lifeline.
Jesus is the Bread of Life (John 6:35), the Living Water (John 4:14), the Word made flesh (John 1:14). To know Him is eternal life (John 17:3). This is why the Bible matters. This is why we read, love, study, and obey it. Because when we open the pages of Scripture, we encounter Jesus, the One who gives life, truth, hope, and joy.
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Summary
Why should we read the Bible? Because its central purpose is to help us know and meet with Jesus, the One to whom all Scripture ultimately points. In life’s hardships, worship, ministry to others, and engagement with a hurting world, we need the hope, truth, and strength found only in Him. As we immerse ourselves in Scripture, the Spirit transforms us into Christ’s likeness and equips us to disciple others faithfully. In every page, story, and promise, the Bible invites us into a living encounter with Jesus—the source of life, joy, and eternal hope.
FAQ 1. Why should Christians read the Bible every day?
Christians should read the Bible daily because first and foremost, it helps them meet with Jesus Christ daily. It also helps them grow in faith, receive wisdom for everyday life, and be transformed by God’s truth. Regular Bible reading strengthens believers, equips them to serve others, and deepens their relationship with God.
FAQ 2. What is the main purpose of reading the Bible?
The primary purpose of reading the Bible is to know and encounter Jesus Christ. While Scripture provides guidance, encouragement, and instruction, its central message is God’s plan of salvation through Jesus, inviting readers into a personal relationship with Him.
FAQ 3. How does reading the Bible help you grow spiritually?
Reading the Bible nourishes spiritual growth by revealing God’s character, renewing the mind, strengthening faith, and teaching believers how to live in obedience to Christ. As the Holy Spirit applies Scripture to everyday life, Christians become more spiritually mature and increasingly reflect the character of Jesus.
© Scripture Union Canada
