The Purpose of the Word

Let's have a little fun. Who knows, we might even learn something accidentally!
 
All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for training in righteousness (paraphrase 2 Timothy 3:16). Webster's Dictionary defines righteousness as "The state of being morally right or justifiable." Now, if training in righteousness is found in the Word of God, then logic suggests that those who do not study and live the Word inevitably fail to attain training in what is morally right. As such, it seems that, even from the simplest non-theological viewpoint, and even if God did not exist, studying and actively following the precepts found in the Word would be the only morally proper method of living.

Let's look at it this way: If God did not exist, and you still chose to follow the Bible, you would:

·         Love your neighbor as yourself (Galatians 5:14)

·         Bear the burdens of others (Galatians 6:2)

·         Seek to live in peace with all men (Romans 12:18)

·         Bear good fruit, which include: love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Galatians 5:22-23)

·         Enjoy the work of your hands and provide for your family (Eccl 2:24, 1 Tim 5:8)

·         Give to the poor (Psalms 112:9)

·         Help the widow, the orphan, and visit those in prison (Isaiah 1:17)

·         Display mercy and truth to everyone you meet (Proverbs 3:3-5)

·         Be gracious, compassionate and righteous (Psalms 112:4)

·         Conduct your business with fairness and justice (Psalms 112:5)

 If following the Word makes life better for those around us, then those who have a problem with the Word clearly have not yet discovered its elegant beauty, simplicity, and undeniable usefulness. Even putting aside the argument of the existence of God, you cannot deny, His Word is essential to the establishment of morality in this world.