One of the most fascinating artifacts in the Papyrus Museum of the Austrian National Library in Vienna appears at first to be a seemingly ordinary piece of worn parchment. Large, dark Pahlavi writing (Middle Persian) dominates its surface. However, a closer look beneath the bold letters reveals another text emerging, a much older Greek manuscript of the New Testament hidden underneath.
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The Making of the Bible as a Book
Most ancient histories began as oral traditions before they were written down and eventually compiled into complete works. The Bible, however, stands apart. Christians believe and know it is God’s inspired Word, and throughout history, people have taken extraordinary care to preserve and transmit its text. Today, it remains the most translated and widely distributed book in the world.
A visit to the Papyrus Museum in Vienna gave me a deeper appreciation for that remarkable history. As I examined ancient biblical manuscripts and fragments, I realized how much effort generations of scribes invested in preserving the Scriptures. These fragile papyri are more than archaeological treasures; they are tangible evidence of the care with which the biblical text has been copied and passed from one generation to the next.
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We worship God, Not a Physical Book
I cannot hear your words as your actions drown out what you say. Our actions provide more testimony to what we believe than what we say, especially to unbelievers. How do our actions respect the Word of God?
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Casting away God’s Love Letter?
The loving God says I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you. (Jeremiah 31:3, ESV). But, does God still love us? Do words of love die out? Lovers re-read God’s Love Letter.
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