The Bible -- Its Origin (Part 1)

            Welcome to a unique study of the most amazing book ever printed.  The Bible continues to be the most enduring and lasting book in the world and every well-educated individual ought to have some knowledge of its content.  In these three studies you will learn about the Bible’s origin, its theme and its main character.

Definition of the Word
            The word “Bible” simply means “book”.  It is one supreme and incomparable book, surpassing other books in authority, antiquity, literary style, and popularity. 
            This study about the origin of the Bible will help us understand why the Bible is so extraordinary.  It will help us see why no human mind has ever fully comprehended the message of the Bible or fully measured its value.  (Note: Bible passages are from the New King James Version.)

INTRODUCTORY FACTS ABOUT THE BIBLE

THE AGE OF THE BIBLE

It is older than any other book.  The earliest written portions of Scripture date back more than 3,300 years. However, its message has been fresh and relevant to people in every age and generation, even to this day.

THE DEMAND FOR THE BIBLE

It is by far the most widely circulated book in the world.  The Bible Society of the United Kingdom calculates that the number of Bibles printed between 1816 and 1975 was 2,458,000,000. By 1992 the estimated number rose to nearly six billion. Furthermore, worldwide sales of the Bible number more than a staggering 100 million each year, far outpacing any other book in history.  It has been translated more than any other book.  Each year there is an increase in the number of translations.  The following figures reflect this steady growth:

 In 1500 A.D. it had been printed in 14 languages
In 1600 – about 40 languages
In 1800 – about 72 languages
In 1900 – about 567 languages
In 1937 – about 1,000 languages
In 1977 – about 1,603 languages
In 2000 – over 2200 languages

In 2005 – over 2400 languages

 THE UNIQUNESS FOR THE BIBLE

It has set a standard for law and morality.  The Ten Commandments continue to be the basis for civil law in many places throughout the world.

It has a power to transform the lives of men.

It speaks with authority:  “Thus saith the Lord.”

It remains indestructible and living despite many violent attacks having been waged against it.