What steps can you take to deepen your understanding of Scripture? Recognize the Warning in Matthew 22:29 “Jesus answered, ‘You are mistaken because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God.’” • Jesus links error to ignorance of God’s Word. • A clear call to pursue deeper understanding so we will not be misled. Commit to Consistent, Reverent Reading • Daily rhythm—delight “in the law of the LORD” (Psalm 1:2). • Adopt the Berean attitude: “They received the word with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day” (Acts 17:11). • Read whole books, not isolated verses, to track argument and flow. Pray for the Spirit’s Illumination • “The Helper, the Holy Spirit…will teach you all things” (John 14:26). • “We have received… the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us” (1 Corinthians 2:12). • Begin each session asking God to open your eyes (Psalm 119:18). Study the Context Carefully • “Present yourself approved to God…accurately handling the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). • Observe who is speaking, to whom, and why. • Note historical, grammatical, and literary setting before applying the text. Compare Scripture with Scripture • “For precept must be upon precept…line upon line” (Isaiah 28:10). • Use cross-references; let clearer passages shed light on difficult ones. • Harmony between Old and New Testaments confirms unified truth. Employ Sound, Christ-Honoring Tools • Concordance, Bible dictionary, maps, and reliable commentaries support accurate study. • God supplies teachers “for the equipping of the saints” (Ephesians 4:11-12); benefit from their labors while testing all by Scripture. Hide the Word in Your Heart • “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11). • Memorize key verses and passages; rehearse them throughout the day. • “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly” (Colossians 3:16). Obey What You Learn • “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). • Insight grows as obedience deepens: “If you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them” (John 13:17). • Apply truths immediately—truth lived is truth retained. Engage in Fellowship Around the Word • “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another” (Colossians 3:16). • Participate in Bible-centered gatherings, small groups, and family devotions. • “Encourage one another…all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25). Teach Others What You Have Learned • “What you have heard from me…entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2). • Explaining Scripture to others clarifies it for yourself and multiplies impact. Hold Fast to the Word’s Trustworthiness • “The Scripture cannot be broken” (John 10:35). • “Every word of God is flawless” (Proverbs 30:5). • Confidence in the Bible’s inerrancy strengthens study, worship, and witness. |
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