The 1 millionth Gideon Scripture, presented to John Nicholson,
co-founder of The Gideons International.
The Bible.
Its opponents have tried to prove it false and destroy it. Its true believers have staked their lives on what it says. Its contents infuriate many among the culturally elite. Yet the same contents inspire those considered to be the “least” by the world to rise above their circumstances by faith while radiating God’s glory.
Why does this “book” cause such passionate reaction?
Below is a passage that will shed some light on the polar opposite points of view concerning the Bible:
The Bible contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and its decisions are immutable.
Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you.
It is the traveler’s map, the pilgrim’s staff, the pilot’s compass, the soldier’s sword and the Christian’s charter. Here too, Heaven is opened and the gates of Hell disclosed.
Christ is its grand subject, our good its design, and the glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently and prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure.
It is given you in life, will be opened at the judgment, and be remembered forever. It involves the highest responsibility, rewards the greatest labor, and will condemn all who trifle with its sacred contents.
You’ll see those words printed inside the Testaments distributed by The Gideons International.
While these words are not part of the sacred text of the Bible, the thoughts expressed here reflect all that the Bible reveals about man and man’s relationship to God.
The Gideons International believes in the inerrancy of the Word of God, holding that it’s the true story of a Savior, Jesus Christ, who was God’s Son, born of a virgin. And who died sinless on a cross as a sacrifice for the sin of all who put their faith in Him. We believe He arose again from the grave, conquering death. He is, in fact, the only One through whom mankind can acquire redemption and have relationship with God the Father.
We pray that if you’ve not received Christ as your Savior, you’ll consider now the eternal importance of this decision. It is in fact, the most important decision you’ll ever make because it is the one and only decision that will determine where you’ll spend your eternity, in heaven or in hell.
If you would like to know more about making your salvation secure, click here.
And as The Gideons International continues to distribute God’s Word at the rate of one million copies every five days, we pray for those who come in contact with it in the days, weeks and months ahead.
{ 11 comments… read them below or add one }
Thanks so much for providing the background and context to this fantastic quote, which so many in the blogosphere and around the Internet have simply put as “unknown author”.
There quote is also available via video, narrated by Morgan Freeman.
Here is the video: http://jcrylequotes.com/2011/01/20/what-the-bible-contains-2
Much appreciation for all you folks do worldwide with The Gideons International.
Soli Deo Gloria!
This is not actually narrated by Morgan Freeman, though the man who is speaking sounds a lot like Morgan Freeman.
Erik,
We have since discovered that the quoted passage actually goes back prior to that Gideon convention of 1923. Our apologies for inaccurately reporting that, as our information came from within our organization. We have edited the story now that we have been told that the passage in fact originated elsewhere (apparently in 19th century England). Nevertheless, it’s still a very inspiring quote. Thank you.
I found this Saturday, Sept. 4, 1926 edition of the Narberth, PA newspaper “Our Town,” in which Mr. Boggs’ speech was announced.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/48143226/Our-Town-September-4-1926
I just thought I’d let you know that your quote has some errors. While stationed in Germany in 1976, a member of my unit invited me to the off-post Babtist Church that he attended. I heard the Gospel for the very first time and was overwhelmed by that message of love and forgiveness. Having been raised Catholic I was constantly trying to work my way to heaven. When I got saved the church gave me a little New Testament Gideon KJV Bible and I memorized that introduction. Just a heads up!
Please change to *Baptist*
Thanks 2 u ppl of GOD 4 bringing GOD 2 US In a much simpler form that students & young growing christians can hold on to. more grease 2 ur elbows. thank you. keepon spread the gospel esp d new testament among the youth.
Sir, I want to send book. I need your p.o box
from Nigeria
Thanks
Who is the author of those words about what the Bible contains that are printed inside of Gideon testaments??
Thank you people of God, the way you are spreading the gospel is something beyond comprehension. This statement inspires me always its now one of my memory quotes. May the good Lord keep your gospel ship always afloat with such inspiration. Amen.
Gideons are wonderful!
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