“If there is one terrible disease in the church of Christ, it is that we do not see God as great as He is. We’re too familiar with God.” – A.W. Tozer, Worship: The Missing Jewel
Growing up and regularly attending a Bible based church has truly been a blessing. But I confess, there have been times when I allowed my relationship with God to become too casual–viewing Him more as my buddy rather than the infinite, omnipotent King of Kings. A peruse of Job 38-41, however, quickly put things into proper perspective. 🙂
When we apply ourselves to Bible study we grow in knowledge, wisdom and truth (Proverbs 2:6).
The Bible–A Map to Guide Us
God knows we desperately need a map to point us in the right direction. On our own we are lost sinners. His inspired Word provides the guidance we need to acquire His perspective and principles for living (Psalm 119). No wonder King David penned, “you [Lord] have exalted above all things your name and your word” (Psalm 138:1-2).
Knowing God’s Commands
Matthew 7:1-13 records Jesus scolding the Pharisees for claiming to know God’s will in every detail of life. They created much confusion amongst the people by adding hundreds of their own petty rules and regulations to God’s laws. Jesus said, “You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to the traditions of men,” (vs. 8).
Engaging Our Minds
Jesus used parables to explain spiritual truth, compelling listeners to think. He doesn’t want us to park our minds in neutral and follow Him in a blind free fall. He calls us to actively engage our minds in His Word (Matthew 22:37; 1 Thessalonians 5:21; 1 John 4:1; 1 Corinthians 10:15; 1 Peter 3:15).
Other Benefits From Bible Study
- Knowing Jesus Christ and God the Father: His justice and mercy
- Understanding how to receive eternal life
- Knowledge of the beginning and the end (Genesis, Revelation)
- Training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16)
- Combatting temptation and spiritual warfare (Matthew 4:1-4; Ephesians 6:10-18)
- Understanding God’s purpose of spiritual gifts and the function of His church
- Discernment of false teachers
The Take Away
God wants us to not only listen carefully to His instructions, but also obey (Hebrews 2:1; James 1:22-25).
When we seek God through Bible study and prayer, He will come along beside us personally each day and help us carry out His principles. He will also grow our faith and bless our obedience.
Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.” – 1 Timothy 4:16
Are you currently engaged in Bible study? Does a Christian ever reach a point when he/she doesn’t need God’s Word anymore?
Coming next—“Understanding Biblical Truth.”
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