The Bible is different from other so-called holy books in several important ways. For one thing, the Bible isn’t just a book—it’s more like a library. And most of all, it’s not simply a list of timeless sayings or abstract principles. The Qur’an, for example, gives commands
and theological statements, but it isn’t dominated by story. Buddhism lays out a path of truths and practices, but again the emphasis is on principles, not drama. The Bible, by contrast—even with all its genres—is one sweeping narrative from beginning to end: the call of Abraham, the exodus of Israel, the parables of Jesus, the missionary journeys of Paul. From Genesis to Revelation, readers are carried into a great drama that begins in creation, moves through sin and exile, reaches its climax in Jesus Christ, and points toward the promise of a new heaven and a new earth.
Why did God choose to reveal His truth in story? Because life itself is a story. None of us lives by bullet points or syllogisms. We live with beginnings and endings, ups and downs, crises and resolutions. Our lives are not structured like a lecture—they unfold like a drama. A faith built only on principles might instruct or advise, but it could never seize the imagination or give hope when life caves in.
The God of Scripture reveals Himself in narrative, therefore, as He steps into our story. He calls, He judges, He delivers, and in the fullness of time He came in the flesh as Jesus of Nazareth. Christianity is not just a truth to agree with but a story to live. And when you take your place in God’s story, the end is glory.
Maranatha,
Jordy
