The Bible has a lot to say about whether we should read books other than the Bible itself. While the Bible does not explicitly prohibit reading non-biblical books, it does provide guidance on how to approach them discernment and wisdom.
On one hand, the Bible emphasizes its own sufficiency and authority as the Word of God. Passages like 2 Timothy 3:16-17 highlight that Scripture is “breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” This suggests that the Bible contains all we need for faith, godliness, and obedience to God.
The Psalms also extol the wisdom and benefits of God’s word: “The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple” (Psalm 19:7). “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). These verses point to the Bible as sufficient for wisdom and guidance.
Paul even writes that, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). This emphasizes the completeness of Scripture for thoroughly equipping God’s people.
On the other hand, the Bible does not forbid reading books and seeking wisdom outside of Scripture. In Acts 17:11, Luke commends the Bereans for examining the Scriptures to see if what Paul said was true. This suggests wrestling with external ideas through the lens of Scripture.
Proverbs also endorses pursuing wisdom: “The heart of him who has understanding seeks knowledge” (Proverbs 15:14); “Apply your heart to instruction and your ear to words of knowledge” (Proverbs 23:12); “Buy truth, and do not sell it; buy wisdom, instruction, and understanding” (Proverbs 23:23). This pursuit of truth and wisdom is not limited to the Bible.
Ecclesiastes 12:12 further teaches that “Of making many books there is no end, and much study is a weariness of the flesh.” This acknowledges many books exist with potential benefit.
How then should Christians approach reading books beyond the Bible? Here are several guiding principles from Scripture:
Test everything against the Truth of God’s Word
Christians should read other books with discernment, continually evaluating their truth claims in light of the ultimate authority of Scripture. As 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22 instructs, “Test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.” Acts 17:11 also models examining external ideas against Scripture.
While truth exists outside the Bible, the Bible is the standard by which all truth-claims must be measured. Books consistent with biblical truth can be beneficial, but false teaching should be rejected and refuted with Scripture.
Be on guard against false teaching
Christians must exercise caution, as many books contain false or dangerous ideas opposed to the Bible. Paul urges Timothy, “O Timothy, guard the deposit entrusted to you. Avoid the irreverent babble and contradictions of what is falsely called ‘knowledge’” (1 Timothy 6:20). Books that contradict or undermine God’s Word should be avoided.
Colossians 2:8 offers similar advice: “See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.” False teaching often creeps in through seemingly impressive worldly wisdom and arguments.
Discernment is needed, as many books directly oppose the gospel. Christians should thoughtfully reject writings that draw people away from the lordship of Christ.
Pursue edifying content that glorifies God
While exercising discernment, Christians should also seek out books with positive, edifying content that point people to the gospel and bring glory to God. Philippians 4:8 provides guidance: “Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Books reflecting such virtues can enrich our thinking.
We should especially look for books that reinforce our biblical values and deepen our theological understanding within an evangelical framework. Reading broadly still allows encountering diverse viewpoints, but with wisdom and discernment.
Develop critical thinking skills
Reading books outside the Bible fosters critical thinking, allowing Christians to sharpen reasoning skills in evaluating arguments. As Paul said, “Do not be children in your thinking. Be infants in evil, but in your thinking be mature” (1 Corinthians 14:20). Evaluating truth claims in books builds mature thinking.
Acts 17:11 again models this, as the Bereans examined the Scriptures to determine truth. Christians today can develop discernment through analyzing books’ merits.
Gain knowledge and wisdom
Books both Christian and secular can impart knowledge that may have merit in God’s sight. Ecclesiastes 12:12 acknowledges the vast accumulation of books with potential benefit. Daniel 1 finds Daniel gaining insight from Babylon’s literature that was useful in serving God’s purposes.
Likewise, Paul in Acts 17 draws on Greek philosophers to find common ground in proclaiming the gospel. Their witness still pointed to truth. Books often contain wisdom that stretches our thinking.
Bring honor to God with intellectual excellence
Diligently studying material outside the Bible allows cultivating our gifts to bring maximum glory to God. As Colossians 3:23 reminds us, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” So whether reading Plato, Jane Austen, or modern scientists, we should develop our intellect to honor God and reflect His wisdom.
Engaging books can also prepare us to interact knowledgeably with non-believers and skeptics we seek to reach for Christ. As 1 Peter 3:15 directs, always being prepared to give a reason for our hope enables effectively communicating the gospel.
Fulfill the Great Commission
Jesus commands His followers to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). Expanding our knowledge prepares us for gospel conversations. Reading books equips us for ministry and jobs allowing us to represent Christ wherever He calls us. Fame, social status, and platforms gained through academic excellence can all expand our gospel impact.
For those called to vocations like law, politics, art, academics, or business, rigorous engagement with literature in those fields prepares us to live on mission for Christ in all sectors of society.
Develop cultural discernment
Reading books, both old and new, allows Christians to develop greater awareness of the cultures around them. Engaging ideas in literature and philosophy provides perspective on cultural trends and worldviews shaping society. Christians can respond more thoughtfully by understanding culture’s currents.
Paul demonstrated this by quoting Greek philosophers and leveraging cultural artifacts like altars to Unknown Gods to connect with Athenians in Acts 17. Awareness of foundational texts in literature, politics, and other humanities expands our cultural engagement.
Love God with our minds
Broad reading ultimately allows us to love and glorify God with our intellect. Jesus quotes Deuteronomy 6:5 in saying the greatest commandment is to “love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind” (Matthew 22:37). Good books, whether secular or Christian, exercise our minds to grow in loving God.
Engaging a diversity of philosophical viewpoints while grounded in Scripture exercises critical faculties God has given us for His glory. Just as missionaries learn new languages to spread the gospel, reading widely allows reaching people influenced by the books shaping their thinking.
Gain perspective through understanding others
Reading books written from worldviews opposed to Christianity fosters greater understanding of other perspectives. As Philippians 2:4 says, “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Listening and engaging diverse viewpoints cultivates humility and compassion.
While maintaining discernment, grappling with different experiences and conclusions reflected in books allows insight into the lives of others. Broad reading provides perspective to better minister the gospel in our relationships and society.
Avoid pointless quarrels
Studying authoritative texts across disciplines helps Christians avoid arguing over ideas we may not fully understand. As Titus 3:9 advises, “But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless.” Reading source writings improves constructive engagement.
For example, by studying philosophers like Plato and Nietzsche directly, we can correct potential misunderstandings perpetuated by others’ opinions. Handles concepts accurately and discuss ideas intelligently.
Integrate truth wherever it is found
Christians recognize God’s common grace gives non-Christians knowledge of His world that can enrich our understanding. As the Presbyterian theologian Alvin Plantinga explained, “Scripture tells us that there is general revelation as well as special revelation. God’s existence and power can be recognized by anyone, so that an intelligent non-Christian may know a great deal about God and his creation.”
General revelation found in books by non-Christians can affirm and supplement biblical truth. Wherever truth is found, it reinforces Christian belief. Ecclesiastes 1:9 reminds us, “there is nothing new under the sun.” All truth echoes God’s revelation.
Help fill our role in culture
Studying culture through books allows Christians to participate in fulfilling humanity’s original mandate to cultivate creation (Genesis 1:28). Books represent creative achievements that, while marred by human fallenness, still reflect God’s image imprinted in humankind. Appreciating these accomplishments brings glory to their Maker.
As Ecclesiastes 3:11 states God “has put eternity into man’s heart.” Works of literature often stir this eternal longing. Christians can affirm the destiny for eternity God writes in human hearts, which books echo in partial form. Reading diverse books expands our cultural influence for Christ.
Abound in wisdom for work
Diligent study enables excelling professionally with the wisdom literature provides. As Ecclesiastes 9:10 counsels, “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might.” Books contain knowledge improving our work and bringing honor when done with excellence.
Joseph in Genesis 39:23 offers a model of those whose “work was successful” because of God’s presence. Books provide tools and knowledge for successful work in God’s strength when guided by biblical values.
Remember literature’s limitations
While reading books by thoughtful non-believers can provide perspective and cultural wisdom, their limitations must also be acknowledged. As Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Even classics by non-Christian authors represent fallen human perspectives.
As the side-by-side giants in Pilgrim’s Progress illustrate, the interpretations of human philosophy only take us so far. Our reading must always be guided and directed by Scripture as the final authority and interpreter of all truth. Books by non-Christians will only partially illuminate reality and cannot override God’s superior revelation.
Remember our fallen state
While engaging books broadly expands our cultural knowledge, Christians must remember human limitations stemming from the fall. As 1 Corinthians 8:1 acknowledges, “We know that ‘We all possess knowledge.’ But knowledge puffs up while love builds up.” Knowledge gained apart from grace risks pride.
Our reading, while casting a broad net, should increase wisdom and clarity but avoid vain accumulation of facts. As Ecclesiastes 12:12 concludes, “Of making many books there is no end, and much study is a weariness of the flesh.” Our core identity must remain rooted in Christ.
Summary Principles
In summary, while Scripture alone is the ultimate authority and entirely sufficient for doctrine and Christian living, books beyond the Bible can be beneficial when approached discerningly. The above principles provide guidance in pursuing wisdom while recognizing potential dangers.
Reading broadly exercises critical thinking, gains professional knowledge, exposes cultural blind spots, provides conversation points for evangelism, and stirs insights to honor God with our minds. But this must all be guided by biblical truth and focused on loving God and serving His kingdom.
The Bible has unique life-changing power as God’s living and active Word (Hebrews 4:12). Other books have value but cannot replace time drinking deeply from Scripture. Yet they can, in moderation, expand perspectives that enrich loving God with all our mind, heart, soul and strength.