This is in response to Mr. Blomberg’s column, “Is Bible Study a
Waste of Time?” As you know, you have taken an anti-biblical stance
on creation vs. evolution and other moral issues. Yet you admit
that you have a very limited knowledge of scripture.

By By: William E. James, Ph.D. Franktown

For 50 years, my wife and I have made it a practice to read
and/or study the Bible every day. We have found it to be an
unending source of instruction and inspiration. It answers the most
important questions known to mankind. The overriding theme is the
love of God and love for fellow members of the human race. It
uniquely has the ability to bring peace and joy.

I have found it to be scientifically and historically credible.
Like no other book, it has dozens of prophecies about the first
coming of Christ and the regathering of the nation of Israel that
have already been fulfilled. It contains many other prophecies
regarding events surrounding the imminent second coming of Christ,
as depicted in the recent best-selling book series, “Left Behind.”
It clearly teaches that there are eternal consequences for those
who believe or disbelieve.

I have no doubt that scripture is supernaturally inspired. But
just as important, it contains a life-changing message. For 12
years, I have gone into prisons and conducted Bible studies for
thousands of inmates, and I have personally observed the
transforming power of the biblical message.

A former inmate, Mel Goebel, in his book “Unseen Presence,”
tells how his life was “transformed” and set on a “spiritual
journey of freedom.” Now from his office in Monument, he conducts a
nationwide ministry to prison inmates.

He would agree with many who have seen the record-breaking movie
“The Passion of the Christ.” The Bible carries an amazing message,
one of transforming power and lasting peace. It provides power to
go beyond the past and face the future with hope and confidence.
And there is peace in knowing that sins are forgiven through the
atoning working of Jesus.

“… To all who received him [Jesus], to those who believed in his
name, he gave the right to become children of God.” (John 1:12
NIV)

We pray for those who do not read the Bible because they doubt
its authenticity. We highly recommend the study of scripture
because it has brought peace and purpose to our lives.