Welcome back to my blog. We are in a series exploring biblical concepts in the Christian life. There are many aspects to the Christian life. However, a pivotal aspect to advancing in our relationship with God is a simple biblically-based 5-step approach, what I call the ‘5 tools to maturity’, taken from Acts 2:42-47. Today we will consider studying the Bible.
We need to know the Bible! Why?
Can we just not memorize the most important verses and follow the style of Christianity we learned in our college group, church denomination or Sunday school and live a good Christian life? Unfortunately, while these organizations may be primarily based on scripture, parts of their teaching often are derived from a tradition or system rather than the faith and freedom produced from the knowledge of scripture. It is like settling for crackers when you could be enjoying steak or making your highest sporting goal to play little league baseball instead of the Major League!
Let’s examine what the Bible says.
- The Bible is an authoritative source since it comes from God through the Holy Spirit by way of the apostles (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:21; 2 Peter 3:16).
- We are told to know and understand God’s word (Ephesians 1:15). There are several reasons for this:
- It is a command (Colossians 1:9).
- We cannot bear fruit or know the manner by which to serve God without first knowing and understanding the Bible (Colossians 1:9-10). Accordingly, to function as a Christian, like anything in life, we need to follow the user manual.
- When we know the manual and its instructions, then the process bears much fruit in our lives. We have better wellbeing stemming from a confident relationship with God. Teleios research has actually shown that those who have more biblical knowledge have better wellbeing and less guilt than those who don’t! (1)
- It takes a little work and time, but the benefits are huge. We can have joy in:
- Bearing fruit in our lives such as joy and peace (Galatians 5:22).
- Seeing God work through us in others’ lives (Colossians 1:10).
- Proving the truth His word (Romans 12:1-2).
- Knowing Him better (Colossians 1:10).
- Loving others in a more accurate and useful fashion (Philippians 1:9; 1 John 5:1-3).
- Making accurate quick assessments in what is good and bad in situations and with people (Hebrews 5:14), thus keeping ourselves from entering many of life’s difficult situations.
- Not depending on our emotions. This helps life become more stable and predictable (Hebrews 5:9-14). The Bible does not teach that Christianity is based in emotions and actually warns against it (Ephesians 4:12-16; James 1:5-8).
How do we effectively study scripture?
There are plenty of Bible study resources on Amazon.com or online that can be effective. Make sure they are Bible based. In addition, someone in your church may be able to help you. You can start effective Bible study with these basic steps:
- Download a web-based Bible study tool such as eSword (e-sword.net) or MySword (https://www.mysword.info). They are free and have multiple exciting resources to help understand scripture.
- Start with a power-packed epistle such as Ephesians or Colossians to gain essential information about Christ and our Christian life in a concise manner.
- Slow down! Take your time and follow these four basic inductive study steps:
- Observation – Ask questions about the verse.
- Interpretation– Use resources on eSword or MySword to answer your questions.
- Application– How should the verse specifically change your life today?
- Integration– What are other verses that support your interpretation so you can confidently build what you know about the topic discussed in the verse (e.g. salvation, the Holy Spirit, etc.)?
A number of helpful Bible study method books are available such as The New Joy of Discovery in Bible Study (Amazon link). These inductive methods are most helpful and will bring amazing insights out of scripture to your distinct benefit.
Know the Bible, empower your life!
Thank you for joining me today. Visit next time where we discuss the important topic assuring what we know about scripture with others. What a privilege!
William C. Stewart, MD
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Disclaimer - This blog is provided for your use and enjoyment on an ‘as is’ and ‘as available’ basis. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.
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