Rediscovering the Gospels in the New Year

As we embark on a new year, many believers commit to Bible reading plans, seeking to immerse themselves in God's Word afresh. Amidst this commendable endeavor lies a subtle danger: engaging with Scripture without encountering the Savior it reveals. Jesus addressed this concern, saying, "You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me, yet you refuse to come to me that you may have life" (John 5:39–40).

The Centrality of Christ in Scripture

It's possible to diligently study the Bible yet miss its central message Jesus Christ. To guard against this, we should prioritize knowing and enjoying Him, ensuring our Bible reading leads us into deeper communion with our Savior. One effective way to achieve this is by immersing ourselves in the Gospels, which provide firsthand accounts of Jesus's life, teachings, death, and resurrection.

Practical Approaches to Gospel Immersion

1. Daily Gospel Readings

   Incorporate a portion of the Gospels into your daily reading plan. For instance, the Discipleship Journal Bible Reading Plan includes a Gospel passage each day, allowing for consistent reflection on Jesus's life and words.

2. Memorization of Key Passages

   Commit to memory significant sections of the Gospels, such as the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7) or the Upper Room Discourse (John 13–17). Memorization enables deeper meditation and allows God's Word to dwell richly within us.

3. Focused Study

   Choose one of the Gospels to study in depth over a period of time. Utilize commentaries and journaling to explore the nuances of the text, seeking to understand and apply Jesus's teachings more fully.

The Infinite Riches of Christ

The Gospels, though concise, contain infinite depths because they reveal the unsearchable riches of Christ (Ephesians 3:8). By planting our souls in these accounts, we continually discover new facets of His character, love, and grace. As we walk with Him through the narratives, witnessing His miracles, teachings, and sacrificial love, our faith is strengthened, and our hearts are drawn closer to Him.

Conclusion

This year, let us resolve to encounter Jesus anew by immersing ourselves in the Gospels. May our study of Scripture not be an end in itself but a means to know, love, and follow Christ more deeply. As we do so, we will find that the Gospels are indeed "the most wonderful books on earth" because they lead us to the most wonderful Person.

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