Psalm 1:1-3 Introduction to the Bible:  *The most popular/preeminent book  7 billion total, 44 million copies per year  *The most powerful/influential book  The Bible is preeminent in influence. Why? Because it has the power to change lives!  *The most precious book  (Matthew 4:4) I. A manual for life — God has spoken Christianity is a revealed faith. We cannot find out about God unless God reveals Himself. God has revealed Himself in a person, Jesus Christ. He is God’s ultimate revelation (Hebrews 1:1-2; II Timothy 3:16-17). If it is God’s Word, then it must be our supreme authority for what we believe and how we live. It’s a manual for life.  II. A love letter from God – God speaks It is also a love letter from God to you. John 5:39-40 The Bible is only so wonderful and exciting because it is about Jesus. It helps us come into a relationship with God through Jesus Christ.  *To those who are not Christians  First, He brings faith to those who are not yet Christians. Romans 10:17.  *To those who are Christians  Become like Jesus (2 Corinthians 3:18); Joy and peace in the midst of a storm (Psalm 23:5); Guidance (Psalm 119:105); Health/healing (Proverbs 4:20-22); Defense against spiritual attack (Matthew 4:1-11); Power (Hebrews 4:12); Cleansing (John 15:3)  III. How do we hear God speak through the bible?  1.  Time, Place, Method  Ask God to speak  Read & study the Bible (What does it say and mean? How does it apply?)  Respond in prayer  Put it into practice  Matthew 7:24