This post was first published during December 2019. –ed.

Most people read a book only once—satisfied they’ve learned the story or the information it communicates, they don’t feel the need to read it again. Some ardent fans might return to a cherished book again and again, but the majority of readers eagerly move on to something new.

So why is the Bible different? Why does God’s Word demand our constant attention? Why do we encourage other believers and discipline ourselves to return to Scripture day after day? And after more than fifty years of carefully studying and preaching the Word, what keeps a preacher coming back to the Bible week after week with the same enthusiasm and energy?

We recently brought those questions to John MacArthur. Here’s how he replied:

As we conclude our blog series on the various characteristics of God’s truth, it’s worth taking a moment to consider your own affection for the Bible and the place it occupies in your life. In the church, we sometimes run the risk of treating Scripture too academically. We should appreciate its unique qualities—its integrity, purity, and timelessness. But don’t make the mistake of viewing God’s Word only from a distance, like a remote piece of art or a precious artifact under glass.

God gave us His Word to feed our souls and sharpen us for the work of His kingdom. But we will never truly know its inexhaustible riches if we don’t move past a mere academic appreciation and learn to love and cherish God’s Word as our vital spiritual sustenance.