Bible: Divine Literature



The Bible: Divine Literature

Vickie Bady

Professor Rice

English 102

12 May 2009

Vickie Bady

Professor Rice

English 102

12 May 2009

The Bible: Divine Literature

I never really thought about the Bible as being a literary work. But after reading Chapter One of the textbook Perrine’s Literature Structure Sound & Sense where it states on page 63, “literary writers are more like explorers: they take us into the midst of life and say, “Look, here is the world in all its complexity,” which can be summed up as the human experience.   In my opinion no other book addresses the human experience more than the Bible. Theology and history intertwine in literary forms that include heroic stories, tragedies and many others, as well as various types of poetry.

As a child I was captured by the tales of David and Goliath, Samson and Delilah, the story of Joseph, and many others. As an adult I am still enthralled with these historical biographies, and I find myself challenged to examine my own life. As a follower of Christ I view the Bible as a divinely inspired blueprint for living a purposeful life. In order to thrive in my Christian walk I find it essential to study, not just read the Bible. Jesus said in Matthew 4:4, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” (New Living Translation)

During my study of the Scripture I read and re-read passages, carefully considering what the Spirit is saying. I ask God to illuminate my mind to what He is communicating. And I must say that nothing is more rewarding for me personally than to “hear” what God is saying to me!   2 Peter 1: 20-21 says, “Above all, you must realize that no prophecy in Scripture ever came from the prophet’s own understanding, or from human initiative. No, those prophets were moved by the Holy Spirit, and they spoke from God.” (New Living Translation) God is still speaking today.

I am seeking the wholeness of mind, body,...