Thoughts on Bible Study

The Hebrews writer stated: without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him (Hebrews 11:6). Knowledge of God can come in one of two ways: the natural revelation, which is the creation and the special revelation, which is the Bible. Regarding the natural revelation the Psalmist said, “The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament sheweth his handiwork” (Psalms 19:1). Also, Paul stated: the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse (Romans 1:20). From the foregoing we learn that it is possible to know some things about God, however this knowledge is insufficient for salvation. For this cause God has given us the special revelation—the Bible. The faith spoken of by Paul comes from this source: “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17). “The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple” (Psalms 19:7). Since the Bible is the source of saving faith, it is the most important book man has ever been privileged to read. This article is designed to encourage devoted Bible study so Bible devotion can be perfected. There are many difficult problems with which we must deal with in this life. When seeking answers to these problems, the world often turns to manmade philosophies and self-help books with the results often leading to more complicated problems. The only answer to a better life today and eternal life in the future is by living a life of faith as the Bible directs. With this in mind let us prayerfully consider the following. The Bible is the only all-sufficient guide to all of our spiritual needs. We are told that God “hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue” (II Peter 1:3). There are many things that are attributed to the Word of God. Notice the following:

The Word will be our standard in the Day of Judgment, it will be that by which we shall be judged (John 12:48).
The Word has the power to cleanse us (John 15:3).
The Word is an agent in sanctification (John 17:17).
By abiding in the Word we become true disciples (John 8:31).
The use of the Word brings knowledge which in turn brings freedom from sin (John 8:32).
The Word produces faith (Romans 10:17).
The Word exerts an influence in the lives of people which can increase and grow in its effect (Acts 6:7; 12:24).
Through the Word Christians are able to comfort sorrowing loved ones (I Thessalonians 4:18).
The Word is able to pierce the inner- most self of man (Hebrews 4:12).
By having the Word living and abiding in us, our prayers will be more effective (John 15:7).
The directing of one’s life should be left to the power of the Word (Matthew 4:4).
It is through the Word that we are begotten again unto salvation (I Peter 1:23; James 1:18).
The Word is God’s instrument of reconciliation (II Corinthians 5:19).
The Word is able to save sinners (James 1:21; Acts 11:14).
The Word, which is the Gospel, is also said to save (Romans 1:16; I Corinthians 15:2).
Finally, the Word is able to produce growth to maturity in Christ (I Peter 2:2).

Bruce Stulting