[393 words]
Bible study is vital to the life of a faithful Christian.
The Bible is food.
The Bible is water.
The Bible is counsel.
The Bible is guidance.
The Bible is comfort.
The Bible is protection.
The Bible is authority.
Every Christian needs to devote as much time to Bible study as possible. This might mean that the child of God has to give up some worldly things in order to come to a better understanding of God’s divine Word.
When an individual studies, there are some important things to keep in mind.
Context is important (Luke 10:26). The verses before and after a verse are the immediate context. There is also the context of the chapter and of the book. It is also important to keep in mind the context of the entire Bible.
Comparisons are important (Isa. 28:10). Before we come to a conclusion on one verse, we need to take a look at everything that Bible has to say on a subject. One verse could alter the meaning of another verse. Too, other Scriptures can shed more understanding upon the immediate verse of study.
Contemplation is important (Ps. 1:2). Think! Then, think some more. Understand the meaning of words. Ask questions. Look deep into the verse. Roll things around in your mind. Memorize a verse and meditate on it throughout the day.
Conclusions are important (1 Thess. 5:21-22). Do not be hasty in reaching conclusions. Do not conclude something just because a person you like holds that same conclusion. A conclusion is a big deal. It is when a person settles on the meaning of a verse. Wrong conclusions will lead to error in teaching and incorrect applications to life.
Compliance is important (James 1:22-25). The Lord wants us to be doers. It is not enough to have our minds filled with truth. We must communicate that truth to the rest of our body and live it out in our lives.
God’s Word originated first in the mind of God. God’s mind is all-wise. This means that you and I can study the Word of God all of our lives and never mine out all of the precious jewels that are contained therein. We can, however, learn enough to enable us to live lives that are well-pleasing to God. Study, my friend. Then, study some more.
Victor M. Eskew
Oceanside church of Christ
Atlantic Beach, FL