THE BIBLE

This book contains: The mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners and the happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true and its decisions immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to supply you, and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveler’s map, the pilgrim’s staff, the pilot’s compass, the soldier’s sword, and the Christian’s charter. Here Paradise is restored, Heaven is opened, and the gates of Hell disclosed. Christ is its grand subject, our good its design, and the glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently, and prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure. It is given you in life, will be open at the judgment, and be remembered forever. It involves the highest responsibility, rewards the greatest labor, and condemns all who trifle with its holy contents.

Author Unknown 

First Peter

From Peter to the Elect scattered abroad because of persecution –

Praise the Lord who has given us living hope by Christ’s resurrection.

We have an incorruptible inheritance that fadeth not away,

And the trial of our faith will be glorious in that day.

Although you have not seen Him, you believed what was told,

And received the end of your faith, the salvation of your soul.

While the Prophets have searched and the angels desired to see,

This glorious Good News was reserved for you and me.

We are born again of incorruptible seed by God’s living Word,

Who His son self bore our sins in His body as you heard.

And since He suffered for us in the flesh on the tree,

We should not think it strange when fiery trials we see.

I want to exhort the elders who are there among you,

For I have witnessed Christ’s sufferings and am an elder too,

That you feed the flock of God and take the oversight,

And when the Chief Shepherd shall appear He will make things right.

 

From The Bible in Verse: from Genesis to Revelation by B.C.Jennings, 1986.