The entrance of Thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding to the simple. Psalm 119:129
Did you ever read the account in Genesis 10? That chapter explains what happened to the descendents of Noah after the flood, listing the various lines of humanity from their origins in Shem, Ham, and Japeth. This chapter makes for rather dry reading for most of us, but for the ethnologists, those who study the origin of the earth’s peoples, this chapter is a gold mine. Firstly, it is an ancient record that is wonderfully complete, providing the student with a complete starting point and breakdown of history. Second, it is absolutely accurate, and the details contained in that chapter have proven themselves to be trustworthy. None of the information in that chapter has ever been successfully challenged. If the Bible is so perfect in its reliability for the ethnologist, it is surely reliable for everyone else who studies it. Including you and me.
The Bible is ridiculed today as being a collection of fables, myths, and traditions. But none of those who make that accusation have ever fairly examined the Book. They criticize the Bible because it condemns their sin, so they seek to discredit it. Their criticizm ends at the Great White Throne, where the Word of God will forever condemn them. But today, that same Word of God illuminates the soul of the believer, and gives to us a measure of understanding. First, the light of the glorious gospel of Christ shone into our souls, and we were saved. Then, the Word became the lamp unto our feet and light unto our path, guiding us safely through the dangers of this world. Then, the One Who is the Light of the world provides to us His illumination so that our testimony might provide the light to draw sinners to the Saviour. The lampstand of His name stands and provides light to each company of believers who gather to that Name. In so many ways we find that the entrance of God’s Word gives light to the Lord’s people.
Nothing but darkness resides where the Word of God is shut out. Nothing but light resides where the Word of God is welcomed in. -Jim MacIntosh