People would live in superstition, fear, and error as was the case during the dark ages of the church. The Bible warns us that “where there is no revelation, people cast off restraint; but blessed is the one who heeds wisdom’s instruction” (Prov 29:18). The word “revelation” refers to the Word of God, that is, the Bible. Only God’s Word can truly comfort us in times of sorrow. For instance, the Bible assures us that “I [Jesus] have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). The Bible also instructs with persuasive words how we ought to conduct ourselves, e.g., “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen” (Eph 4:29). Most importantly, the gospel of Jesus Christ that brings salvation, eternal life, to our souls is found in the Bible.

If the Bible (Word of God) is not faithfully taught, souls will perish in hell for eternity because people do not know the way and the only way to heaven: “I [Jesus] am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). Also, “salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). The children of God will live sinful lives because “people will cast off restrain” (Proverbs 29:18). God will inflict painful discipline on his children. Life will be miserable.

But you might say: “We know what is morally right and wrong!” You underestimate the power of sin! You cannot “not sin.” Every human being is a slave to sin and will die eternally in hell for your sins (Romans 6:16). That we cannot “not sin” is a fact that does not need proof. Just look at your own life: there is never a day, not even one day, when you do not sin in thought, word, or deed. But when God’s Word is faithfully preached, life will change as the Bible says: “How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word” (Psa 119:9). This is also proven in the lives of millions of Christians who faithfully study and obey God’s Word: their lives and families undergo a fundamental change from darkness and sorrow into light and joy with peace.

Today you possess a Bible. It is a rare and precious possession during the dark ages of the church. But do you treasure your Bible, which is the very word of God? If you were to read the original letter of some great kings or presidents, you will find it a privilege. But they are but human beings who make mistakes and whose words contain mistakes. Yet you say, “wow!” The Bible is the Word of God, perfect and life giving. These words can save souls from hell, repair broken lives, and steer us to walk in ways that may not be easy to walk on but are truly blessed. How can you not treasure it? Yet we do not desire to hear God’s Word preached on Sunday pulpits. Yet we absent ourselves from Sunday School classes. Dear child of God, this must not be so with you.

We are starting a course on the “Five Points of Calvinism” after the quiz in the form of games on 4/11/18. Next year, we will begin the study on the Book of the Prophet Hosea. As the year draws to an end, I urge you to set a new goal, that you will aim to understand every passage of the Bible. Then God’s Word will be “a lamp for my feet, a light on my path” (Psa 119:105). You will then walk in true safety.