Ang Biblia ay Manual ng Buhay Natin

Kung sa isang appliance may user’s manual, sa buhay natin – may mas higit pa: Ang Salita ng Diyos. The Bible is not just a book; it is God’s lifelong conversation with His people.

1. A Library, Not a Single Book: Although bound under one cover, the Bible is a collection of 73 books written by different authors, in different eras, literary styles, and even packed with emotions. • 46 books in the Old Testament (mostly Hebrew; some in Aramaic), • 27 books in the New Testament (all in Greek). Kaya iba-iba ang tunog, estilo, at pahayag – pero iisa ang tinuturo: the unfolding of God’s love.
2. Revelation through Deeds and Words: Ayon sa Vatican II, Dei Verbum, Chapter 1: “God revealed Himself through deeds and words, united in harmony.” Ibig sabihin: • God’s actions in history confirm His words. • His words explain the meaning of His actions. Unity in deeds and words – because God is truth.
3. Christ Is the Fullness of Revelation: Lahat ng propeta, tanda, pangako at kasaysayan sa Lumang Tipan ay patungkol dito: Jesus is the Mediator and the fullness of all revelation. Kung gusto natin makilala ang Diyos, ang turo ng Simbahan ay simple: Look to Christ. Listen to Christ. Follow Christ.
4. What Does This Mean for Us?: Ang Biblia ay hindi palamuti sa altar o pang-display lang sa sala. Ito ay: Manual ng Buhay, Kwento ng Diyos para sa atin, Salamin ng ating sarili, Mapatungo sa kaligtasan at higit sa lahat: Ito ang paraan ng Diyos para kausapin tayo, araw-araw.