The consequences of not reading the Bible are serious and far-reaching. Biblical illiteracy has been a major factor in the spread of deception in the Western church, particularly in American Christianity. Without a solid biblical foundation, believers lack the information required to distinguish truth from deception, resulting in confusion, susceptibility to false teaching, and error. According to the American Bible Society, 151 million people in the United States were classified as Bible-disengaged in 2024, up from 119 million in 2020. Meanwhile, scripture engagement has significantly decreased from 71 million in 2020 to just 47 million today. This suggests that the majority is moving away from scripture, which has a direct impact on maintaining a biblical worldview. What influences our beliefs if they are not based on scripture?
Several things occur when believers do not understand what the Bible teaches.
Lack of Discernment: Discernment is the ability to tell the difference between truth and error, good and evil, and right and wrong. When we lack discernment, we are more vulnerable to being misled by beliefs or practices that appear spiritual but are not based on biblical truth. Hebrews 5:14 tells us that discernment comes with spiritual growth and constant application of God's Word, which helps us in determining what aligns with His will.
Susceptibility to False Teaching: When we do not study scripture on a regular basis, we become more susceptible to teachings that contradict biblical truth. False doctrines frequently have an enticing tone or discreetly misrepresent or omit scripture in order to deceive. Ephesians 4:14 cautions us against being "tossed to and fro" by misleading beliefs. Knowing God's Word protects us from misinterpretations and deceptive ideas.
Biblical Error: Biblical error happens when we misunderstand or misinterpret scripture, resulting in views or behaviors that differ from God's original message. This might happen when we take verses out of context or fail to consider the entirety of scripture. Jesus answers this in Matthew 22:29, saying, "You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God." This emphasizes the need of approaching scripture with comprehension and reverence.
Biblical Illiteracy: Biblical illiteracy is defined as a lack of core knowledge of scripture, which leads to a misunderstanding of God's character, promises, and directions for life. It prevents us from knowing God intimately and realizing His truth. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 emphasizes the value of scripture, which "equips" us to live in accordance with God's purpose. Without this information, we are spiritually unprepared.
Immaturity: When we fail to continually mature in our knowledge and application of God's Word, we are spiritually immature. We may continue to have a shallow religion, incapable of dealing with higher spiritual issues or responsibilities. 1 Corinthians 3:2 discusses the distinction between spiritual "milk" and "solid food," demonstrating that growth in Christ occurs through maturity in His Word.
No Conviction: Conviction is an inner sense of accountability and commitment to living by the principles of God. Without it, we might stray, letting sin go unchecked and living more in line with the world than with God. Psalm 119:11 emphasizes the significance of keeping God's Word close to our hearts in order to prevent sin and retain firm convictions.
Compromise: Compromise occurs when we change our views or practices to conform to society norms, personal wants, or traditions that do not match with scripture. This contradicts our faith and witness as believers. Romans 12:2 instructs us not to conform to this world but to be transformed by renewing our thoughts, urging us to hold on to God's principles rather than giving in to outward pressures.
Without the Bible as our guide, we risk creating a religion based on man-made customs and calling it "biblical." It is a humbling reminder that if we wish to learn, discern, and live in alignment with Christ's teachings, we must immerse ourselves in scripture.