June 09, 2004

The Importance of Reading

The importance of reading quality books could hardly be better illustrated than by the words of Paul. He wrote to Timothy, "When you come bring the cloak which I left at Troas with Carpus, and the books, especially the parchments (II Timothy 4:13).
Here, he is prison, caring for all the churches, writing epistles, facing the prospect of death, and yet desiring books that he may continue his study and grow in his understanding of the Word of God. There are few investments that will bring better returns than sound, biblical literature. Few things are a more profitable use of your free time than reading the godly counsel of our Fathers in the Faith.

Unfortunately, discernment is sorely lacking in the Church, and anything which claims to be Christian gets an audience. This is particularly the case in Christian book publication. If it claims to be Christian or is authored by a Christian, the Church takes it in with no regard for correct Doctrine.

Luke praised a particular group for their diligence in making sure that what the Apostle Paul was telling them was in accord with the Scriptures (see Acts 17:11). That is the measure of a book as well. When we read, we must make sure that what is being written is in line with the Word of God.

Reading is not a past-time. It's a discipline, and it takes discernment. If we are going to discipline ourselves to read, let's read things which are edifying, which provoke us to good deeds, challenge our apathy, articulate the responsibilities before us and most of all, magnify our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ!

Paul once issued a command that we should imitate him as he imitates Christ. Reading is one of the many ways we can do that.