Some writings in the Bible can seem fantastical and difficult to believe. I’m the first to admit that having confidence in the authority of scripture does require an exercise of faith. I don’t doubt or question any part of God’s Word, but I acknowledge that for some it can be harder to believe than not to. God’s Word isn’t for everyone.
We know that far more people will choose an easier road to travel. (Matthew 7:13-14) Even though Jesus invites many to come to Him, few will accept His invitation. (Matthew 22:14) You can choose to dismiss all the Bible says and think it’s just a bunch of fairy tales and fables. But before you walk away, I’d ask that you consider one question: What if it’s true?
What if there is a Creator God who made all things and holds everything together with His infinite power? (Colossians 1:16-17; Hebrews 1:3) It would mean that life has a purpose and some sort of intention. (Ephesians 2:10) We’re not just meaningless animals roaming the world for a short time before going the way of all the earth. It would mean we aren’t the masters of our destiny, much less the universe. We would be subject to a higher intelligence and authority. If true, it implies a responsibility to live by His rules rather than our own. (Ecclesiastes 12:13; James 4:12) So, what if it’s true?
What if Jesus is indeed the Son of God? What would that mean for your life? Confronted with such truth, you’d have to acknowledge that He set the standard for the way we are supposed to live. You’d also have to acknowledge that you fall short of such perfection. (1 Peter 2:21-22; Romans 3:23) And then you would need to deal with the implications of falling short of the standard God set for your life. (Romans 6:23) It would all lead to the need to admit you are a sinner in need of God’s grace and mercy. (Luke 18:13; Ephesians 2:8-9) You may not want to believe it, but what if it’s true?
What if Jesus rose from the dead, providing a way to eternal life for you? Wouldn’t He be worthy of all your worship, love, and devotion? I’m not sure how one could know the truth and still walk away from it because it was inconvenient or not worth it. If it’s true, you risk everything putting off your surrender to Jesus even one more minute. Any given breath could be the last one you ever take, and when it’s over, it’s over. (Hebrews 9:27; James 4:14) No more opportunities to acknowledge Jesus as Lord. No second chances for repenting of your sins. (Luke 13:3) To know and walk away is the most tragic thing I can imagine. (Hebrews 10:26-27)
I can’t convince you the Bible is true by some scientific method, although I find the foundation for all of science in God’s Word. I can’t prove a spiritual truth by any physical means (and neither can you). But I know the God in whom I believe. I trust His Word, and He has proven it to be true over and over again. You might think I’m crazy, or you might be curious. In the end, only one thing will matter. And that is, what did you do with Jesus? He created everything, then died and rose again so that you might live. (John 1:3; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4) What if it’s true?