Is the Bible the only book I can read?
"Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." —1 Corinthians 10:31 (NLT)
For Christians, it seems like there's only one book we should read: the Bible. After all, it’s God’s inspired Word and offers everything we need to be saved and to live a godly life (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
If that's the case, is there any benefit to reading any other books? Should we spend any time on books for entertainment, education, or inspiration? Actually, yes!
There's a lot of value in reading other books—in addition to studying the Bible. As with any media choices, we still need to be discerning about what we choose, but the Bible does not need to be the only book on your shelf.
Books for Entertainment & Education
"God gave these four young men an unusual aptitude for understanding every aspect of literature and wisdom. And God gave Daniel the special ability to interpret the meanings of visions and dreams." —Daniel 1:17 (NLT)
It’s clear that God has designed us to enjoy certain hobbies and pursuits. The apostle Paul’s letters often bring up running and athletic competitions, and I think he probably would have enjoyed watching sports or reading accounts of tournaments during a day off.
Reading is a great hobby that sharpens our minds, expands our vocabulary, and even causes us to think in fresh ways. We can learn so much through books—both fiction and non-fiction. We can learn to repair a bike or imagine life on Mars or immerse ourselves in a fantasy land to get away from the stresses of life.
If an enjoyable fiction or non-fiction book allows you to relax or learn, without distracting you from God’s standards, go for it! Reading books can be a rewarding way to expand our knowledge and imaginations.
Books for Inspiration
"Don't go to war without wise guidance; victory depends on having many advisers." —Proverbs 24:6 (NLT)
Sometimes reading the Bible can be a challenge, and we could use some help comprehending it. Thankfully, we have godly men and women who have written devotional books and commentary in study Bibles that help explain and apply difficult or important passages, guiding us in our personal study of God's Word.
While I do read the Bible on a daily basis, I also allow the wisdom and work of others to help me grow in my understanding. As I fight my personal wars against sin, I’m thankful for those who encourage me from their books.
Books for Perspective
"[Paul] had a debate with some of the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers. When he told them about Jesus and his resurrection, they said, 'What's this babbler trying to say with these strange ideas he's picked up?' Others said, 'He seems to be preaching about some foreign gods.' Then they took him to the high council of the city. 'Come and tell us about this new teaching,' they said." —Acts 17:18-19 (NLT)
Did you know that the book of Jude actually includes details from books outside the Bible? Jude 9-11 includes a story from the book "The Assumption of Moses," which tells of an argument between the Devil and the archangel, Michael. While the entirety of that book may not meet the test of being divinely-inspired, this portion was evidently historically true since God allowed Jude to include it. This story helps bolster his warnings about false teachers.
Paul also read the thoughts of many modern-day philosophers—not because they were right, but because it was popular thinking of the day. When you're teaching others, it's important to understand what your audience is familiar with. Like a youth pastor who may quote a pop song or use a meme or video clip to make a point, Paul’s references to popular philosophy helped to show the contrasting yet superior value of God’s truth over man’s truth (Acts 17:18-19).
One Book for Life
"All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work." —2 Timothy 3:16-17
While other books can entertain, educate, and inspire, the Bible should always be our primary resource for becoming more like Jesus. Other Christian resources may have their opinions and perspectives, but if they do not align with God's Word, then we cannot let them negatively impact our own faith (1 John 4:1-3). God's Word is the #1 most trustworthy book we can rely on (Isaiah 40:8).
As other books move to the bargain bin, the Bible's value for our lives will never diminish. So feel free to make other reading choices—with wisdom and discernment.
ALSO SEE:
- What is the Bible?
- Who wrote the Bible?
- Why should we read the Bible?
- Which movies or books are safe for Christians?
- Is it OK to read secular or non-Christian fiction?
- What does the Bible say about reading or writing fiction?
- How can I get excited about reading the Bible?
- How can I live in the world not of the world?
- What is spiritual discernment?
TL;DR
Yes! Books other than the Bible also have value and usefulness for entertainment, education, and inspiration. While we can appreciate these books for their value, we must remember that the Bible should always be our primary resource for becoming more like Jesus (2 Timothy 3:16). As other books move to the bargain bin, the Bible's value for our lives will never diminish. So feel free to make other reading choices—with wisdom and discernment (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Writer: Heath Tibbetts
Heath served as a youth pastor and speaker for over a decade around the United States. He now serves as a pastor in Northern Illinois with his wife and three teenage kids. Heath enjoys running, going out on dates with his wife, and helping people grow in their walk with Jesus!
