Our Content — Of Far Greater Importance Than Our Cover – Bible study

It’s been reported that interior designers are now purchasing numbers of antique leather-bound books, putting them in their homes solely for their covers not for any content they possess. Affluent clients are placing them in rooms that match a specific decor, and create a warm, old-world atmosphere. One wealthy individual is known to have purchased thousands of antique books he will never read just to create an old library look in his renovated home his books are strictly for show.

While focusing on outward appearances can be a pleasing way to decorate a house it’s a dangerous way to live spiritually speaking. In fact, Jesus reprimanded the religious leaders of His day because they did not practice what they preached (Matthew 23:1-4). They were addicted to receiving praise from men, thus gaining a feeling of self-importance a feeling condemned in Scripture (Proverbs 25:27; Romans 12:3). Jesus said of them, “All their works they do to be seen by men”? (Matthew 23:5; cf. Matthew 23:25-28).

The Lord calls us to be people of inner substance not mere outward appearance (Romans 2:28-29; cf. 1 Peter 3:1-4). We are to demonstrate His example in us by an attitude of humility. Our Lord said:

“Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:4) and “He who is greatest among you shall be your servant” (Matthew 23:11).

In our daily Christian walk, let us remember that our content is of far greater importance than our cover we’re not strictly for show (Ecclesiastes 12:13; cf. Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-16; 2 Timothy 2:1-2; 1 Peter 4:11).