Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us, ² just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word. ³ With this in mind, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I too decided to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, ⁴ so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.
- Luke 1:1-4
 
This week we’re going to be tackling the question: “What about the Bible?”
 
As followers of Jesus, we trust the Bible and allow it to guide both our lives and our community because we believe that the Bible speaks faithfully about Jesus.
 
In the years following the death and resurrection of Jesus, his followers scattered throughout the world with the message that all who believe in Jesus can experience eternal life: life that begins now, transforms us, and goes on forever. As the news spread, people started writing down and recording stories about the life and sayings of Jesus.
 
One of these writers was a doctor named Luke. Today’s passage gives you glimpse into his mindset as he created his book. He knew that he wasn’t alone in his undertaking (there would be other accounts recorded and passed down through history). He wanted his account to be faithful to the testimony of the original eyewitnesses. He showed concern for careful investigation, orderly accounts, and certainty.
 
Writings like Luke challenge us to read them as histories, true stories or (at least) stories that claim to be true. He doesn’t claim to be writing mythology or moral allegories or fables. He also doesn’t pretend to be a neutral, objective observer.
 
What do you think it would mean for you if the Bible actually spoke faithfully about Jesus? What reasons do you have for trusting or distrusting the Bible? What reasons have you heard for trusting or distrusting the Bible?