by Keith Bassham
If 2011 was the year of the King James Bible (it was the 400th anniversary year as we noted), I was thinking why not make 2012 your own personal Year of the Bible?
Upheavals in politics, philosophy, economics, and even in the geophysical world itself, drive us to seek out those things firm, ancient, and settled. The Psalmist in Psalm 119:52 observes, “Concerning thy testimonies, I have known of old that thou hast founded them for ever,” a thought echoed by Peter when he writes, “But the word of the Lord endureth for ever” (1 Peter 1:25). What could be more needful and more beneficial in these uncertain times than a close walk with the words of God?
Therefore, in addition to the informative issue of Global Partners, the missionary supplement to the Tribune, I have included three articles having to do with Bible reading and study this first Tribune for 2012. In the first of the trio, former Tribune editor Mike Randall writes about the practice of regular Bible reading. This is a very personal and practical look at the importance of taking time every day to be with God in His Word. I have also included an excerpt from a new book written by Jim and Jeri Combs, Search the Scriptures for Yourself, about Bible reading and study. Mr. Combs is also a former editor of the Tribune. And in the final article, I give some instruction so you can do basic Bible study on your own between Sundays.
What confidence we can have living through 2012 when we know God’s mind through His Word. Our knowledge of the Bible can inform our politics, our parenting, our finances, our relationships and even our future plans, but sitting on the shelf or thrown carelessly on the backseat of the car, the Bible is a mere decoration or accessory.
Resolve to make 2012 your personal Year of the Bible!
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The past year was challenging for the Tribune financially, just as it was for most of us. Ministries have been hit hard, and some churches have had to make difficult choices. However, while 2011 did have challenges, our friends and supporters came through in some very unexpected ways, and we have no reason to complain.
So, first of all, I wish to thank all our contributors, subscribers, and advertisers who make the Tribune financially possible. And second, it is time to think about the February Tribune Offering, an annual offering we receive from the churches. Nearly 30,000 copies of the Tribune go out each month to churches, pastors, missionaries, students, and laypeople in the Baptist Bible Fellowship, and to many churches outside our Fellowship. This unique magazine ministers around the world at such a low cost, providing information, inspiration, and motivation for Baptists everywhere. Thousands are connected for ministry by the Tribune, and the annual February Tribune Offering helps make that happen.