Is It Bad to Highlight Verses in the Bible?

Some might scoff or find it offensive, but there is no denying the value and personal significance of highlighting verses in the Bible. Highlighting allows us to internalize and reflect on the text in a profound way, making the Bible a more accessible and meaningful reference for our lives. This practice, however, should be approached with reverence and a clear understanding of the text's context.

Respecting the Bible, Not Idolizing It

The Bible should be treated with the utmost respect and reverence, but that does not mean we should treat it like an idol. It is a sacred text meant to guide us, not a divine deity to be worshipped. As a former religious study enthusiast, I can attest to the fact that even after years of use, my well-worn Bibles are not discarded. Instead, some pages are extracted and annotated with meaningful highlights, which I keep in my wallet to share with others.

Whether your friends or family members object to your highlighting, it’s important to stand firm in your convictions. The fear of losing a potential convert is misplaced. Fostering true belief and understanding is more beneficial than merely following others’ views.

The Context of Highlighting Verses

Highlighting certain verses, such as Matthew 19:12, is not just a personal preference but a deeper reflection of Jesus’ teachings. Let’s take a closer look at the context of this passage. In verse 12, Jesus was discussing self-castration for the Kingdom, not celibacy or marital decisions. The context is clear:

“For there are eunuchs who were born that way, and there are eunuchs who were made that way by men, and there are those who have made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. Let the one who can accept it accept it.” - Matthew 19:12

Jesus is not condemning or encouraging a certain choice but recognizing that there are different paths individuals can take. The verse acknowledges that self-castration is a legitimate, Christ-like choice for some, without passing judgment on others who may have different circumstances or preferences.

Embracing Personal and Digital Bibles

Whether you use a traditional paper Bible or an e-sword app, the goal is the same: to internalize the words of God. My extensive collection of Bibles includes a well-annotated copy of Joyce Meyer’s, a great resource for study and reflection. Make highlights to remind yourself of the treasures you find, and consider sharing them with others to inspire and guide them.

Ultimately, the paper Bible is just a medium. The true importance lies in the words written on it and the way they speak to your heart. Highlighting verses can make the Bible more personal, helping you to understand and apply its teachings more deeply. Whether you prefer a physical copy or an e-reader, the act of highlighting can be a powerful tool for spiritual growth and understanding.

Here are three key reflections to consider:

Highlighted verses serve as personal reminders and aids to deeper understanding. The context of each verse is crucial for proper interpretation. The ultimate purpose of the Bible is to guide us, not to be feared or avoided.

So go ahead, highlight away, and let the power of the Word transform your life.