Why does the All-Powerful God occasionally employ clear language (in the Song of Solomon and Ezekiel, for example)? Isn’t the Bible intended for reading by all people, even children?
There are times when we read portions in the Bible that don’t seem appropriate for young readers. It is uncommon for portions of the Song of Solomon and Ezekiel to be publicly read in churches when children are present. Why isn’t the entire Bible written in a language that is “child-friendly” if God wrote it for everyone on the planet? 2 Timothy 3:16–17, which explains why God gave us the Bible, is a crucial text that can assist us in responding to this question.
“All of the Bible’s teachings, rebukes, corrections, and trainings in righteousness are inspired by God and can be used to prepare the believer fully for any good work.”
The use of strong language
This important verse demonstrates that the Bible is one of the ways God has used to “rebuke” us. Unfortunately, according to 1 Corinthians 5:1-2, we are a sinful people who readily [become comfortable with our sins], despite the fact that our transgressions insult God and ultimately bring about our ruin (Matthew 18:8). God, mercifully, hates sinners enough to call us to turn from our ways (2 Corinthians 7:9–10). God loves us so much, in fact, that He is willing to shock us with vivid imagery if that is the only way to grab our attention and make our sins seem horrible and repulsive, leading us to turn to Him and live again (Ezekiel 18:30-32).
This clarifies the sometimes-ugly metaphors used by the prophets of the Old Testament. Jesus Himself used severe language on occasion (see Luke 11:39–52). These rebukes are not directed specifically to young children by God. He corrects those who are able to comprehend them [and who require shock therapy to turn them around]. God chastises and disciplines those who He loves, according to the book of Revelation. Thus, repent and be earnest (Revelation 3:19).
Specific instructions for various types of people
God sent us the Bible so that we “may be thoroughly equipped for every good work,” as the important text above also says. This is in line with the idea of “the sufficiency of Scripture,” which holds that the Bible is our whole source of instructions from God on how to live a life that pleases Him. Naturally, our obligations alter as we become older. Therefore, God must teach us different things at different times if we are to satisfy Him.
For this reason, the Bible includes particular guidelines for different kinds of people. For instance, Ephesians 6:1-3 provides guidance for kids, whereas Ephesians 6:4 addresses parents. The Song of Solomon is one example of a specific lesson from the Bible that applies to married couples. God takes great pride in marriage (Genesis 2:24–25; 1 Timothy 4–3) and is not ashamed to employ poetic imagery to inspire passion and happiness between husband and wife. which is once more not intended for young audiences.
Different needs
In conclusion, we should recognize that, rather than existing in spite of the Bible’s intended audience of all people, some of its passages are not suitable for young readers. God wrote the Bible to speak to each and every one of us, according to our individual needs (Ephesians 4:29), and in a way that will build us all up by His grace (Acts 20:32). We can declare to God, at every point and season of life, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path,” because God wrote the Bible in this manner (Psalm 119:105).
