White Heart - Read the Book (Don't Wait for the Movie) Lyrics

Contents: Song Information
  • Song Title: Read the Book (Don't Wait for the Movie)
  • Album: Don't Wait for the Movie
  • Artist: White Heart
  • Released On: 01 Jan 1986
  • Download/Stream: iTunes Music Amazon Music
White Heart Read the Book (Don't Wait for the Movie)

Read the Book (Don't Wait for the Movie) Lyrics

Television subdivision
He sees it on his advent screen
The cable's on, the tape is running
So he won't miss a thing
I asked him if he knew Jesus
He said what channel is He on

While he sees the latest feature
a Bible sits collecting dust
TV Guide and program listings
The only place he puts his trust
Who says a wealth of information
Has to be filmed on location

Read the Book
Don't wait for the movie
Read the Book
Don't wait for the movie

All the lines keep getting longer
To see the latest horror show
Degeneration of a generation
Tell me where'd the Bible go

I asked them if they knew Jesus
Is He in a theatre near you
I said, "No, He's the Messiah"
"Do you think He'll get good reviews"

Read the Book
Don't wait for the movie
Read the Book
Don't wait for the movie

(The management of this theatre
requests that you take a moment to
familiarize yourself with the
emergency exits located at either the
right or the left of your life)

Hollywood says the movie's better
Special effects are the thing
But the miracles of the Father
They can never be put on screen

Read the Book
Don't wait for the movie
Read the Book
Don't wait for the movie


Read the Book (Don't Wait for the Movie) Video

Read the Book (Don't Wait for the Movie) Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

Read the Book (Don't Wait for the Movie) by White Heart is a Christian song that encourages listeners to prioritize reading the Bible over relying solely on entertainment sources for spiritual guidance. The song delivers its message through catchy lyrics and a memorable tune, making it a popular choice among Christian audiences.

Key Messages of the Song

The song opens with the lines, "Television subdivision, he sees it on his advent screen. The cable's on, the tape is running, so he won't miss a thing." These lines highlight the prevalent use of television and technology in our lives, particularly in the context of seeking entertainment and information. It sets the stage for the main message of the song, which is to prioritize reading the Bible over relying on external sources such as television and movies for spiritual guidance.

The next set of lines further emphasize this message: "I asked him if he knew Jesus, he said what channel is He on. While he sees the latest feature, a Bible sits collecting dust. TV Guide and program listings, the only place he puts his trust." Here, the song criticizes the prioritization of entertainment over faith. The protagonist of the song is more interested in watching the latest movies and TV shows than engaging with the Bible. The lyrics suggest that the Bible is neglected and left untouched, while the TV guide and program listings become the primary source of information and influence in the protagonist's life.

The chorus of the song repeats the key message: "Read the Book, don't wait for the movie." This simple yet powerful phrase encourages listeners to prioritize reading the Bible and not rely solely on the visual representation of biblical stories in movies or TV shows. It implies that the true essence and power of the message lies in the written word of God rather than its interpretation through various forms of media.

The second verse of the song continues to highlight the contrast between the protagonist's obsession with entertainment and the neglect of the Bible: "All the lines keep getting longer, to see the latest horror show. Degeneration of a generation, tell me where'd the Bible go." These lines express concern over the growing fascination with secular entertainment, particularly the horror genre, and the decline of biblical knowledge among the younger generation. It questions the displacement of the Bible in society and calls for a return to its importance and relevance in people's lives.

The bridge of the song adds a sense of urgency to the message: "(The management of this theater requests that you take a moment to familiarize yourself with the emergency exits located at either the right or the left of your life)." This line serves as a reminder that the pursuit of entertainment and worldly pleasures can lead to spiritual emptiness and ultimately a sense of emergency. It encourages listeners to prioritize their spiritual well-being and seek the true source of wisdom and guidance.

Meaning of the Song

The meaning of "Read the Book (Don't Wait for the Movie)" is centered around the importance of reading the Bible and seeking God's word directly rather than relying solely on external sources for spiritual guidance. The song critiques the prevalent obsession with entertainment and the neglect of biblical knowledge in modern society. It urges listeners to prioritize their faith and engage with the Bible as the primary source of truth and wisdom.

Inspiration or Song Story

Information about the specific inspiration or story behind the song "Read the Book (Don't Wait for the Movie)" by White Heart is not readily available. However, the song's message aligns with the overarching theme of many Christian songs, which is to prioritize God and His word above all else. It is likely that the song was inspired by the observations of the songwriter or the band members regarding the declining emphasis on biblical knowledge in society and the growing fascination with entertainment media.

Biblical Analysis

The song "Read the Book (Don't Wait for the Movie)" aligns with biblical principles and encourages listeners to prioritize the reading and understanding of the Bible. The Bible itself emphasizes the importance of engaging with God's word directly. In Psalm 119:105, it says, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." This verse highlights the significance of the Bible as a source of guidance and illumination in one's life.

Furthermore, in 2 Timothy 3:16-17, it states, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." This passage emphasizes the divine inspiration and authority of the Bible, highlighting its role as a comprehensive guide for believers.

The song's message also aligns with Jesus' teachings in Matthew 4:4, where He says, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God." This verse emphasizes the importance of prioritizing spiritual nourishment through the word of God over worldly sustenance.

In conclusion, "Read the Book (Don't Wait for the Movie)" by White Heart delivers a powerful message about the importance of reading the Bible and seeking God's word directly. The song critiques the prevalent obsession with entertainment and encourages listeners to prioritize their faith and engage with the Bible as the primary source of truth and guidance. It aligns with biblical principles that emphasize the significance of God's word in our lives.

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