The Convenience Bible

 December 22, 2024

Sunday

Matthew 7:13–14 (NASB 2020)¹³ “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. ¹⁴ For the gate is narrow and the way is constricted that leads to life, and there are few who find it.

Nowadays, you can find a Bible for just about anyone. There are Bible for people who are fans of preachers: The Criswell Bible, John McArthur Bible. There are Bibles that emphasize a certain topic: The Experiencing God Bible. There are Bibles for people who don't want to read the Bible: The Passion Bible. So, I have an idea. How about the "Convenience" Bible?

This Bible will come with explanations of hard passages that allow the reader to conveniently excuse himself from doing anything difficult. It will have excuses like: "Family is more important than what Jesus really wants you to do," and "You never need to forgive anyone who doesn't ask for forgiveness." This way the Bible reader will never need to feel guilty when he does what he wants to do. He'll have his excuses built into the commentary.

I suppose some of the translations of certain scriptures will need to be changed to. That one about hating mother and father, wife and children and even your own life could use some work. Maybe it should say, "Love your family with all your heart and soul. Always love those who love you." This Bible needs a few things added too. "Leave when things get difficult." "Stop giving when it is inconvenient." "Give to God after you have given to yourself."

Of course, that saying of Jesus when He claimed He came to give an abundant life has got to go. Surely, the real abundant life can be found without Him. Right?

Okay, let's admit it. The Bible is true. It will open our understanding of real life. It will challenge us beyond anything else in this world. And it is worth it.

Those who live in a convenient world stay on the road to destruction. This road is smooth. It is easy to travel because it is so wide. Most of our friends will be there. In the short run, it seems best. But those who choose the road the Bible describes find life. This is something those on the broad road dream of but never really find.

Honestly, would you buy "The Convenience Bible?" I guess it depends on what road you are on.