God wants an intimate, personal relationship with you. You are not just an acquaintance or a distant relative – you are His child. This relationship can be strengthened by studying the Bible – His revelations to you.
Hebrews 4:12 says that God’s Word is quick and powerful. This means the Bible is more than a book, more than words on a page. It is more than words spoken in ancient times. The Bible is relevant; it addresses the needs of today.
1. God’s Word has Specific Purposes (read 2 Timothy 3:16)
- God’s Word Is Profitable for Doctrine. Read these verses and write what they teach us about God. (Jeremiah 31:3; Romans 5:8)
- God’s Word Is Profitable for Reproof (to point out a fault) and Conviction of Sin. Read Ephesians 4:26-31 and list some areas where God’s Word points out faults in our lives.
- God’s Word is Profitable for Correction of Error. Not only does the Bible convict, but it also corrects. Psalm 119 points out the psalmist’s experiences with God’s Word. This psalm teaches that God’s Word gives directions for living. Verse 9 asks, “How can a young man keep his way pure?” Read Psalm 119:9 for the answer. As God’s Word takes root in your heart, your faults and defects will be corrected by the Bible’s influence.
- God’s Word is Profitable for Instruction in Righteousness (godly behavior). Bible study is your spiritual food. Just as your physical body benefits from nutrients in the food you eat, your spiritual life benefits from consistent Bible study. Jeremiah 15:16 says, “Your words were found, and I ate them.”
2. There Are Several Methods of Learning God’s Word
One of these can be compared to the fingers of your hand. It is easy to lose your grip if you hold something with only one or two fingers. If you hear, read, study, memorize and meditate on God’s Word, your grasp of its truth will become a firm part of your life.
Hear: Read Romans 10:17. Listen to your pastor’s sermons and to Bible studies and take notes on what you hear.
Read: Read 1 Timothy 4:13. Set a goal to read a certain amount from the Bible each day. For example, read one chapter daily from the Gospel of John.
Study: Read 2 Timothy 2:15. When you study, ask the following questions:
- What promise is there to claim?
- What example is there to follow?
- What command is there to obey?
- What sin is there to confess and forsake?
If you haven’t done so already, enroll and faithfully attend your church’s Bible study.
Memorize: Memorizing Scripture gives you the opportunity to share Godís Word and assists you in overcoming sin. Seek to memorize at least one Scripture verse every week.
Meditate: Read Joshua 1:8. Meditation is spiritual digestion. It is analyzing and dwelling on a verse over and over. Meditate on a Scripture verse during the day as you drive, rest, walk, jog or play.
REVIEW
Do you remember the four purposes of God’s Word?
- God’s Word is profitable for _______________________________
- God’s Word is profitable for _______________________________
- God’s Word is profitable for _______________________________
- God’s Word is profitable for _______________________________
Look at your left hand. Remember to use your hand to remind yourself of the five methods of Bible study with each finger representing one of those methods.
When would be a good time each day for you to spend in Bible study?
Approach Bible study expectantly. Use the prayer of Psalm 119:18, “Open my eyes, that I may see Wondrous things from Your law.”
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