In what ways can we support others in becoming "mighty in the Scriptures"? Understanding “Mighty in the Scriptures” • Acts 18:24 describes Apollos as “an eloquent man, mighty in the Scriptures.” He had a firm grasp of God’s written Word and could explain it accurately (Acts 18:25–26). • “Mighty” (Greek: dunatos) carries the sense of being powerful, competent, and able. We desire the same outcome for those we influence. Live as an Example of Scriptural Saturation • Let the Word shape every part of life so others can imitate (1 Corinthians 11:1). • Speak naturally of Scripture in everyday conversation (Deuteronomy 6:6–7). • Model quick dependence on the Bible when making decisions (Psalm 119:24). Teach the Whole Counsel of God • Follow Paul’s pattern: “I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27). • Move beyond favorite passages; walk through entire books, highlighting context, genre, and author’s intent. • Show how the Old and New Testaments fit together (Luke 24:27). Cultivate Personal Study Habits with Them • Read together, then apart, then reunite to compare insights. • Demonstrate observation → interpretation → application. • Memorize verses side-by-side; review during normal routines (Colossians 3:16). • Encourage journaling key truths, questions, and answered prayer. Provide Sound Resources and Tools • Introduce reliable translations, concordances, and study Bibles. • Teach basic Greek/Hebrew word-study methods using free software. • Recommend commentaries that honor Scripture’s authority (2 Timothy 2:15). Create a Community of Word-Centered Encouragement • Host small groups focused on inductive Bible study, not mere discussion. • Pair newer believers with seasoned mentors (Titus 2:1–2). • Read Scripture aloud together; faith comes by hearing (Romans 10:17). Pray for Illumination and Growth • Ask God to “open their minds to understand the Scriptures” (Luke 24:45). • Pray Ephesians 1:17–19 over them: spiritual wisdom, revelation, enlightened hearts. Guard Against Error • Warn about teachers who twist Scripture (2 Peter 3:16). • Train them to test every claim by the written Word (Acts 17:11; 1 John 4:1). • Teach sound doctrine that accords with godliness (1 Timothy 4:16). Encourage Application and Obedience • “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). • Celebrate real-life obedience stories: forgiveness extended, integrity upheld. • Show how Scripture equips “for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Celebrate Progress and Fruit • Mark milestones—first book completed, first lesson taught, first verse memorized. • Share testimonies of how deeper Bible knowledge fuels worship and witness. • Remain available for ongoing questions, remembering that growth is a lifelong journey (Philippians 1:6). |
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