Is the Bible a Love Letter?

Sometimes people describe the Bible as a “love letter” written to us. This is a statement that may resonate deeply with many, especially to women who are struggling to see themselves as worthy or loved. 

It is true that Scripture tells us God loves us. But describing the Bible as a love letter moves the focus away from the Author and puts us at the center. 

When we think of ourselves as the recipient of this “letter” from God, we can start to slip into dangerous territory. We may look for hidden messages or personal revelation that we think God is giving us, which removes verses and passages from their original context and meaning. One verse that is frequently misused in this way is Jeremiah 29:11. This was a promise given to the Israelites when they were in exile, not a personalized prediction of how our individual futures will look.

Another danger is that we could start to practice eisegesis -- reading ourselves “into” the text instead of trying to learn from the text the message that the Holy Spirit intended to convey through the human authors. The David and Goliath narrative is often used this way when speakers or authors encourage people to reflect on the “giants” in their life that need to be “killed”. This is a historical narrative, not a story meant to be stretched into a metaphorical reflection on obstacles an individual is facing. 

Scripture does so much more than simply tell us that God loves us. It is not meant to be used as a sentimental self-esteem booster.  Scripture equips and encourages. It rebukes us and instructs us. God’s word pierces and divides to our innermost being. It restores our soul and makes us wise. The word of God accomplishes his purpose and remains forever. 

Rather than approaching the Bible as a letter written specifically to each one of us and looking for a special, unique message for ourselves, we need to remember that God is the author and the main character.  The Bible provides a way for us to learn more about him. As we grow in our knowledge of him, our love for him deepens. This growing love should be a catalyst to forge connections with others. Then they will be drawn to Him through the God-breathed, enduring Scriptures. 

Scripture reveals who God is so that we can see how we have fallen short and allow him to conform us to his image. Instead of trying to make Scripture be what we want to hear, let’s allow Scripture to change us.


See also: Always Here, The Reception