Hints For Bible Study

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." 2 Timothy 3:16-17. "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15

Our article today consists of several helpful hints for effective Bible study.

Study with an OPEN MIND: Try to find what the Bible actually teaches instead of trying to make it prove what you already believe. Remember, the Gospel is God's power to save, and not our opinions. See Romans 1:16.

Study the Bible SYSTEMATICALLY: A student in school could not learn chemistry, math, or science if he skipped around haphazardly from one subject to another. The same principle holds true in Bible Study.

Study the Bible DAILY: In Acts 17:11 the Bible says of the people of Berea, "These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so." The Bereans searched the scriptures daily. We should do the same.

Realize "TRUTH" EXISTS: We sometimes hear the statement that "you can prove anything by the Bible." Such a remark borders on complete blasphemy of God's Word. If this is true then the Bible is full of contradictions and falsehoods teaching opposing doctrines. Most people would become very angry if someone said their character was such that "you could prove anything by them," yet they make the same accusation against God's Word. Remember, the truth never contradicts itself. If religious beliefs contradict one another it is because at least one, or perhaps both of them are not in harmony with the truth.

Study WIDELY: If we could learn everything God wants us to know in one single verse there would be no purpose for the rest of the scriptures. In studying a certain scripture we should always consider the context [verses surrounding the verse under consideration] as well as to whom, when, and under what conditions the scripture was written.

APPLY ITS TEACHINGS PERSONALLY: One of the greatest Bible tragedies was the rich young ruler of Matthew 19:16-22 who inquired of the Lord what he must do to inherit eternal life. Upon receiving the answer the Bible says that "he went away sorrowful..." Bible knowledge is wonderful but is of little real value unless it is actively put to use.

To assist you in your study of the Bible, we offer a free Bible Correspondence Course to anyone who is interested. To enroll, simply send your name and address either to the Mauldin Church of Christ, PO Box 731, Mauldin, SC 29662-0731, or email us using this link. You are cordially invited to our services.

What Must I Do to Be Saved?

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