Why Should We Read Christian Literature?
When I first began my walk with Christ, I was unsure why Christian Literature was important. I did not understand the purpose of the texts. I thought to myself, “Isn’t the Bible enough to understand who God is? Why do we need additional resources if the Bible is the true Word of God”? Well, those are the questions I aim to address. After becoming more mature in my walk with Christ, the Lord has given me much wisdom concerning this topic. So let’s jump right into it.
Question 1: What is Christian Literature? Why is it important?
Christian Literature is a supplemental [extra] resource that can help us Believers in Christ better understand the Christian faith. Christian supplemental texts allow the author to write or elaborate more on a biblical topic. Essentially, the author is receiving inspiration from the Holy Word of God. It’s important to note, Christian literature or supplemental texts are not a replacement for reading and understanding the Holy Word.
The Bible is our primary defense against error or false teachings. 16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God[a] may be thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Tim 3:16-17). Essentially, these texts are meant to be read along with the Bible to help us mature and grow in our faith when we prioritize learning about God and the Kingdom of Heaven.
Question 2: Isn’t the Bible Enough to Understand God?
The Bible is the inherent [absolute true] Word of God. The Bible is the primary way to know and understand who Christ is, thus allowing a person to receive faith and salvation (Romans 10:17). As mentioned earlier, The Bible is our primary weapon against error or false teachings. So, nothing can ever replace the Word of God. Simply put, supplemental Christian texts are used as another resource to help the Believer become equipped with knowledge in their faith walk.
Question 3: What is the goal of Reading Christian Literature:
As previously mentioned, supplemental Christian texts are not meant to replace the Word of God. We all must devote time to privately study God’s Word in order to know our Shepherd and to discern His voice from others (John 10:27-30). Yet we can receive more wisdom and understanding from other Christian authors.
Defining the Goal:
Essentially, reading Christian supplementary texts is no different from having a primary textbook where you receive all first-hand information and knowledge about a topic. In addition to the textbook, you may also have secondary sources or other books that attest to the truth within your primary textbook. So is the same for the Bible and supplementary Christian literature. The goal of Christian literature is to gain more understanding and knowledge about our walk with the Lord to glorify and exalt Him.