My Answer: Read the Bible to discover its truths

Q: I don’t see how any intelligent person can believe what the Bible says. The people who wrote it thousands of years ago didn’t know anything about science, and anyway, it’s full of contradictions. I’m sorry, but I just can’t swallow the idea that it’s God’s word. — S.C.

A: I’m sorry you have this attitude toward the Bible, because it means you’re cutting yourself off from the hope and peace it alone can give you. In a world of confusion and despair, where else will you look to discover life’s meaning?

I can’t help but wonder, however, if you’ve ever actually read the Bible. Or are you only going on what you’ve heard from others (who may never have read the Bible either)? You see, I could list a number of reasons why I believe the Bible is God’s word, but they probably wouldn’t make much of an impression on you. What will is you actually reading the Bible for yourself, with an open heart and mind.

After all, if the Bible really tells us about God and how he wants us to live, then it’s the most important book in the world. Don’t dismiss it lightly. The Psalmist declared, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path” (Psalm 119:105).

I suggest you begin in the New Testament with the Gospel of John. In it, you will discover not only God’s written word, but the living word, Jesus Christ — who was God in human flesh. Don’t let your pride, your desire to control your life or anything else keep you from seeing Christ as he really is and then committing your life to him.

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Q: What happens to us right after we die? Do we go immediately to heaven, or are we in an unconscious state (like sleep) until the end of time? My favorite aunt (a woman of great faith) died a few months ago, and not knowing if she’s already in heaven bothers me. — Mrs. K.C.

A: Not all Christians agree on this issue, and I respect their sincerity. However, my own study of the Bible has convinced me that when a believer dies, he or she enters immediately into God’s presence. No evil can touch the person, who is secure and at peace forever.

I think, for example, of the Apostle Paul. He knew his life was in constant danger from those who opposed the Gospel. And yet he didn’t shrink back from death or try to flee from those who might kill him — because he knew heaven was real, and if he died he would be in the presence of his savior forever. Once in prison he wrote, “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.... I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far” (Philippians 1:21,23).

Take comfort in God’s promise that death is not the end, but ahead of us is heaven if we belong to Christ. We were not meant for this world alone, and by his death and resurrection, Christ removed the one barrier that separates us from eternal life — the barrier of our sins.

Christ’s promise is for you, and for all (including your aunt) who put their faith and trust in him: “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die” (John 11:25).

Make sure of your commitment to Christ, and thank him that your aunt is now safely in his presence forever.

Send your queries to “My Answer,” c/o Billy Graham, Billy Graham Evangelistic Assn., 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C., 28201; call 1-(877) 2-GRAHAM; or visit https://www.billygraham.org.