Should we read other books, or just the Bible?

from the old testament

• While the Bible is our foundation, other books can help us grow in understanding, apply biblical truth, and live wisely. For example, Proverbs 1:5 encourages gaining wisdom and instruction: “Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance.” Books written by faithful Christians—such as commentaries, devotionals, biographies, and theological works—can help us understand Scripture more deeply and apply it more faithfully. Even secular books, when approached with discernment, can offer valuable insights into life, God’s world, human nature, and practical living.

from the new testament

• The Bible is clear about the importance of God's Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21). This does not mean that the Bible is the only book we can or should read, but it does mean we prioritize and hold high God’s Word.
• The Bible is unique because it is God-breathed—no other book carries that authority (2 Timothy 3:16–17). This means Scripture is our ultimate authority in matters of faith and life. No other book can replace or equal it. However, this doesn’t mean other books are useless or wrong to read.
• Paul was clearly familiar with literature outside of Scripture and used it to build bridges for the gospel. In Acts 17:28, the Apostle Paul quotes pagan poets to connect with his Greek audience showing that reading other writings, when done with discernment, can be useful for understanding culture and communicating truth.
• While other books can be helpful, they must always be tested against Scripture. The Bereans were commended for examining the Scriptures daily to see if what Paul said was true (Acts 17:11). That same principle applies today: we can read other books, but we must always compare them with and test their worth to the truth of God’s Word.

implications for today

There are many reasons to read other books other than just the Bible. Other books are important to help people learn to read. From the earliest stages of learning, children's books and learning tools are necessary for literacy. The Bible was never meant to be a comprehensive and exhaustive book about everything and anything. Many books are also important for or helpful with the practicalities of daily living, such as medical books, mechanical manuals, academic texts, and even cook books. Many fields of learning require reading outside of the Bible. For example, if God calls a person to serve as a medical missionary, that person will need to read books related to medicine in order to fulfill their God-given calling. If God calls a person to run a business, he or she will need to read books related to economics and business. And the list goes on. This type of reading is consistent with God's teachings in obeying God's will for that person's life. It would be foolish to think that we should only read the Bible and not learn the information and skills necessary to live well and glorify Him in all we do.

There are also many books that can help us better learn what the Bible teaches. For example, Bible dictionaries, commentaries, and online resources can assist in understanding difficult passages and how others have interpreted them throughout the history of the church. Books don’t have to only serve a utilitarian purpose, though; we can also read for leisure or entertainment. Though Christians are called to focus on appropriate and helpful concepts (Philippians 4:8), many inspirational books, biographies, and fiction novels can be enjoyable books that provide rest, creative thinking, or encouragement. We can honor God even with the fictional or inspirational books we read.

A word of caution is important when it comes to Christians reading other books besides the Bible. First, there is the concern of content. Is the book you are reading helping you grow spiritually, or is it at least something God would approve of you reading? Second, there is the concern of time. Is the reading of a particular book the best use of your time as a follower of Christ? Even a good book could be a bad decision if it is keeping you from God's calling for your life in other areas. Third, is the reading of other books interfering with reading God's Book? No book is as important as the Bible, and those who focus on it daily are blessed (Psalm 1). So while God calls us to glorify Him in every area of life, this does not exclude Christians from reading other books in addition to the Bible that can help us grow in our walk with Him and better serve others.