USA (MNN) — National Bible Week has been celebrated the
week of Thanksgiving every year since 1941. Designed to raise the nation's
interest in the value and importance of reading the Bible, it is the perfect
kick-off to the religious holiday season.
International Bible Society-Send The Light's Steve Johnson
says they're also encouraging Americans to read the Bible, given a generation
struggling with Bible literacy. They hope to re-inject God's Word in the
centrality of the culture. "It's trying to help people understand that
daily engagement with the Word of God is absolutely critical to their spiritual
formation. If we can accomplish that goal, I think we would see dramatic
transformation in our country."
They're not alone in that understanding. Dr.
John A. Hash, Founder of Bible Pathway Ministries, burdened by growing biblical
illiteracy throughout America, was impressed to take action.
He was convinced that the godless spirit is
deeply rooted in its lack of knowledge of the Bible, our Creator's Guide on how
He expects us to live, in order to accomplish His purpose for our existence.
Dr. Hash realized that the giant task of
bringing about an awakening to the importance of reading the Bible would
require the entire Body of Christ to work together.
Johnson says they're working to translate, produce, and
distribute Bibles, Scripture materials, and other Christian resources so people
around the world may become disciples of Jesus Christ. But, that's not where the work ends. He
says Ezra 7:10 describes what the prophet did with the Word of God. It reads: "For
Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the LORD,
and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel."
Being obedient to God means familiarity with His Word. Johnson says, "If we would commit to study and apply the Word of God, and
to reaching out to our neighbors next door with its transformational power, we
would see significant change and significant results. I think the banner cry for IBS-STL right now
is to call believers in this country to be Ezras in their community."
