This article is concerned with the part that the Bible plays in the formation of Christians, especially those called to leadership ministry. How can we read the Bible and have it form us, without bringing our own pre-formed agendas to the text? The many challenges in reading the Bible on its own terms is noted, not least laying aside modern categories for enquiry. Transformation into the image of the Son of God requires that the Biblical text, even difficult and disturbing passages, sets the agenda for our reading and interpretation of the Scriptures.