William Shakespeare's "Hamlet."

 

I have never seen or read the play by William Shakespeare titled "Hamlet."  For this reason if the topic comes up in conversation I do not have anything to say.  I do not know what the play is about or who the main characters are.  I can assume "Hamlet" is one of the characters but I do not even know that for a fact.  Why would anyone want my opinion on the play?  The fact is no one would.  Neither would someone try to teach a math class if they have not studied from a math book.  We would not think of sitting through a history class of a man who has never looked in a history book.  Why then do so many give their opinions on the Bible when they have never read it?  The Bible is like any other book in regards to that fact that it must be read and studied in order to be understood. However, it is like no other book in regards to the fact that only it is a book inspired by God.  Paul wrote, "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work" (II Timothy 3:16).  The Bible is special because it is inspired by God and in it God has told us how to live.  God has communicated to man how He wants us to live in order to please Him. However, it must be read and studied to understand the message God has given.  A man named Philip Brooks put it this way, "The Bible is like a telescope. If a man looks through his telescope he sees worlds beyond; but if he looks at his telescope, he does not see anything but that. The Bible is a thing to be looked through to see that which is beyond; but most people only look at it and so they see only the dead letter." Sadly God's inspired word to man (the Bible) is not given much attention.  It is not read or studied but still many feel they have the right to teach it.  They take what they have learned from their parents, friends, teachers, and preachers and speak as if they know the Bible.  May this never be the case for those in the Lord's church, let us look in the Scripture and see what God has said.  Let us be men and women of the word.

 

Garrett Bookout

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