Editorial November 18, 2002 Issue

The Bible and the Key to the Scriptures

John Selover

Among its profound attributes, the Bible is an instrument of change. It is a record of changes—significant changes. Abraham was bidden by God to move from Ur to Canaan. Jacob's character was renewed and his name changed to Israel. The children of Israel migrated to Egypt. Moses led them out again. Elijah was translated and did not see death. Job's life was radically altered from wealth to poverty and then restored again.

The Bible is a history of the change from Old-Testament prophecy to New-Testament fulfillment. And there is the record of the radical shift from the anticipation of the Messiah as a political ruler to the Saviour and Wayshower Christ Jesus who revealed the omnipotent government of God. Jesus changed death into life in his resurrection and ascension. And, in the apostolic record, Saul's life was suddenly and radically changed from persecuting Christians to learning to be one—as Paul—and greatly extending Christianity's influence.

Bible-impelled changes continued throughout the ages. As the Scriptures were gathered into a book, translated—made more available—and priesthood removed as a medium, spiritually minded characters emerged. Men such as Luther, Wycliffe, Gwaltier, Calvin were great reformers who helped move Scripture into the hands of the people, as literacy and curiosity became coordinate with translation and printing.

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