General Overview
The Bible is considered to be the most influential book in the world and is read by millions of Christians each day. Within its pages lies an immense amount of information that can be used to shape one’s understanding of the world and how to live a godly life. Christians often turn to scripture in order to gain guidance, insight, understanding, and comfort. So, what does the Bible say about various topics?
The Bible is divided into two main parts: the Old Testament and the New Testament. The Old Testament is comprised of 39 books and authors, including Moses and the prophets of Israel. It was written over a period of about 900 years. The New Testament is comprised of 27 books and authors, including the authors of the four Gospels and the apostle Paul. The New Testament was written over a period of about 70 years. While some of the topics addressed in the New Testament are quite different than in the Old Testament, they both contain instructions on how to live a godly life.
Knowing what the Bible says about topics such as love, forgiveness, mercy, justice, hope, and humility will not only help guide the believer’s moral and ethical decisions, but it will also strengthen their relationship with God and the understanding of their individual purpose in life. For example, when a believer is faced with a difficult decision, they can remember Matthew 6:33 which states, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” This verse serves as a reminder to keep God’s kingdom as the ultimate priority in life.
Love
When it comes to love, the Bible has plenty to offer. It is especially important to focus on how believers should love one another. John 13:34-35 states, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” This is a powerful reminder that love is at the core of being a true disciple of Christ. Forgiveness, self-sacrifice, and compassion are also important aspects of love.
The Bible also talks a lot about romantic relationships, providing instructions on how to approach and manage them. One of the most important instructions is found in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 which states, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
This message is clear: love is not just a feeling, but an action that should be actively demonstrated through intentional, uncomfortable, difficult acts. In romantic relationships, it is a selfless act of unifying two people as one. It is a journey that is never finished, so it is important to remain diligent in striving for true love.
Forgiveness
Another vital aspect of the Bible’s teachings is the concept of forgiveness. This is a vital part of the Christian faith, and it is discussed frequently throughout the Scriptures. The Bible encourages believers to forgive those who have wronged them, no matter how difficult or hurtful the situation may be. Ephesians 4:32 states, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” This is a clear reminder that as we are forgiven by Christ, so too, must we forgive others.
The Bible also provides guidance on how to move forward after being wronged. Matthew 5:43-44 states, “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you”. This teaches us that rather than holding a grudge, we should choose to pray for those who have hurt us and seek to extend grace and mercy instead.
The Bible ultimately demonstrates that forgiveness is essential to living a godly life, and it is something that should be practiced continually. Holding on to resentment and hatred will lead to bitterness and regret, so it is important to strive to forgive those who have done us wrong.
Mercy
The Bible also emphasizes displaying mercy to those in need. It teaches that mercy is not something that should be earned or deserved, but rather, something that should be given freely, regardless of a person’s past. For example, Matthew 5:7 states, “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” This teaches believers that those who show mercy to others will be the ones who ultimately receive it in the end.
Additionally, mercy is a key part of any act of justice. When mistakes are made, mercy should be extended. Leviticus 19:17-19 states, “Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord. Do not use deceit or false accusations when dealing with others. Do not oppress foreigners, as you were oppressed in Egypt.” This verse demonstrates that mercy should be given to those who are in need or oppressed, regardless of their current circumstances or past actions.
Mercy is an essential aspect of living a godly life and it should be extended to all. It should be rooted in love, kindness, understanding, and forgiveness rather than judgement or expectation.
Justice
The Bible also speaks strongly about justice. It is a command given by God to seek justice and confront any type of mistreatment or injustice that is occurring. Proverbs 31:8-9 states, “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” This verse demonstrates that seeking justice is an important part of the Christian faith and it should be practiced diligently.
It is also important to recognize that justice should never be sought selfishly or with ulterior motives. Micah 6:8 states, “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” This verse emphasizes that justice and mercy can coexist, and that humility should always be present when practicing justice.
Just actions do not always guarantee justice or fairness, so it is important to strive for justice in all that is done. In addition, believers should not be discouraged when justice does not seem to prevail. The Bible is clear that God will ultimately bring justice in the end.
Hope
The Bible is filled with hope for those who are in need. It encourages us to stand firm, knowing that God will never forsake us and His timing is always perfect. For example, Romans 5:3-5 states, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” This passage reminds believers that even in the darkest of times there is hope.
The Bible also provides guidance on how to maintain hope, even when life does not seem to be going according to plan. Popular verses such as Proverbs 3:5-6 states, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” are powerful reminders that God is always in control and that He will provide hope and guidance to those who seek him.
The Bible is filled with hope and at the end of the days, believers can take comfort in knowing that God will continue to be a source of hope and encouragement, no matter what the future may bring.
Humility
Last but not least, the Bible speaks to the importance of humility. Humility is both an attitude and an action that must be taken in order to truly live a godly life. Proverbs 22:4 states, “Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life”. This verse serves as a reminder of the rewards that come with practicing humility.
The Bible also encourages believers to put others’ needs before their own. Philippians 2:3-4 states, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” This passage serves as a powerful reminder that humility involves putting others first and valuing others more highly than oneself.
Humility should be seen as a virtue, and it is a key part of cultivating a relationship with God. Through humility, believers can better appreciate what God has done for them and strive to make Him the ultimate priority in their lives.
