One of my responsibilities as managing editor is to write an editorial for this space to introduce the theme of each issue. However, considering this issue's theme, I thought it appropriate to yield this space to others whose words carry far more impact than any I could craft.

Following are what some of history's greatest figures—presidents, prime ministers, monarchs, scientists and others—have said or written about "the book that changed the world," the Bible. Think deeply about their wisdom in this regard!

Sir Isaac Newton, known as the father of modern physics and astronomy, said, "There are more sure marks of authenticity in the Bible than in any profane [i.e., secular] history."

The noted French writer and philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau wrote: "Peruse the works of our philosophers; with all their pomp of diction, how mean [or lowly], how contemptible, are they, compared with the Scriptures! Is it possible that a Book at once so simple and sublime should be merely the work of man?"

The brilliant German scholar and philosopher Immanuel Kant said: "The existence of the Bible, as a book for the people, is the greatest benefit which the human race has ever experienced. Every attempt to belittle it is a crime against humanity."

Sir Winston Churchill, the great British prime minister, statesman, historian and author, said: "We reject with scorn all these learned and labored myths that Moses was but a legendary figure. We believe that the most scientific view, the most up-to-date and rationalistic conception, will find its fullest satisfaction in taking the Bible story literally."

Queen Victoria, the longest-reigning monarch in British history, said of the Bible, "That Book accounts for the supremacy of England."

Many American presidents have affirmed their deep respect for the Bible. George Washington, first president of the United States, said, "It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible."

Thomas Jefferson, third U.S. president, stated: "I have always said and always will say that the studious perusal of the Sacred Volume will make better citizens, better fathers, better husbands . . . The Bible makes the best people in the world."

John Quincy Adams, sixth U.S. president, wrote, "So great is my veneration of the Bible that the earlier my children begin to read it the more confident will be my hope that they will prove useful citizens of their country." He also stated: "My custom is to read four or five chapters of the Bible every morning immediately after rising . . . It seems to me the most suitable manner of beginning the day . . . It is an invaluable and inexhaustible mine of knowledge and virtue."

Abraham Lincoln, 16th U.S. president, stated: "In regard to this Great Book, I have but to say, it is the best gift God has given to man."

Theodore Roosevelt, 26th U.S. president, said, "A thorough knowledge of the Bible is worth more than a college education."

Ronald Reagan, 40th U.S. president, said, "Of the many influences that have shaped the United States into a distinctive nation and people, none may be said to be more fundamental and enduring than the Bible."

What is your view of this greatest of all books? Do you honor and revere it as these great figures of history did? Keep their words in mind as you read this issue—then blow the dust off your Bible and delve into it to discover its great treasures for yourself! GN