Quotes concerning Studying the Bible:
“Therefore (I say) when thou readest scripture, be wise and circumspect: and when thou comest to such strange manners of speaking and dark sentences, to such parables and similitudes, to such dreams or visions as are hid from thy understanding, commit them unto God or to the gift of His Holy Spirit in them that are better learned than thou” (Miles Coverdale – 1535).
“A readiness to believe every promise implicitly, to obey every command unhesitatingly, to stand perfect and complete in all the will of God, is the only true spirit of Bible study” (Andrew Murray).
“[The Bible] contains light to direct you, food to support you and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveler’s map, the pilgrim’s staff, the pilot’s compass, the soldier’s sword and the Christian’s charter. … It should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently, and prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory and a river of pleasure. It is given you in life, will be opened in the judgment, and will be remembered forever” (Anonymous).
“[One] cannot come to the New Testament as the disputer, the wise man, the judge over the Word of God. He can come only as the child who needs to be made wise by the wisdom of God” (Glenn W. Barker).
Be diligent to present yourself approved by God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth (2 Tim. 2:15).
Where to Begin:
- Continue to follow a systematic study of Bible doctrines, such as the lessons you are currently working on. Ask a mature Christian in the church to help you on a regular basis with your studies.
- Sign up for a Bible college class. Let your capacity grow by being “stretched” in the classroom. Don’t be afraid.
- Purchase some tools for Bible study: A study Bible, a concordance, a Bible handbook, and a single-volume commentary. But don’t wait to study the Bible until you have all these items!
- Read the Bible every day in your private times with God.
- As you’re reading the Bible, jot down your questions. Meet with a mature Christian in the church who can help you find the answers to your questions.
- Attend the church as often as you can. Take notes during the messages. Pick up a copy of the sermon notes offered on the back table. Study your notes at home during the week, looking up all the verses.
- Read the doctrine booklets available from GGWO. There are hundreds available.
QUESTION:
- Find and write down at least five principles of Bible study from the five quotes in the beginning of this lesson.
- Which of these five principles have you practiced in your personal Bible study?