Christians need to know what is in the Bible. We need to be reading it, studying it, meditating on it. Not just at church on Sundays, but on our own every day. “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” (Heb. 4:12) Jesus used Scriptures to defend himself against Satan’s temptations in the desert. The apostles used it to demonstrate that Jesus fulfilled hundreds of prophecies concerning the Messiah.
We need to know God’s word because “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” (2 Tim. 3:16)
There are many wonderful Bible study aids out there, books that act as teachers and help you better understand what you are reading, what it means, and how it applies to your life. Below are some of the ones I have found most helpful. There are many other wonderful studies out there — please leave a comment and let me know of some of the ones you have tried! Find one that works for you, but find one! Dig in and really study this Living Word!
This books teaches you how to study the scriptures on your own – giving you the tools to pick up any book in the Bible and understand it.
There are many books in this series – Romans is pretty heavy, so if this is your first Bible study, you might want to start with a smaller book…Philippians is one of my favorites!
I used this one in preparation for writing Right Where I Belong :) She has several in this series. They are terrific!
These are best done in a group. Many churches have Beth Moore studies going year-round. She has many, and they are fabulous!
I have been part of Bible Study Fellowship where a whole school year is spent on just one book at a time. Phenomenal studies! And I am currently in the Amazing Collection where we are studying through the entire Bible in two years. I have loved that, too. It has forced me to get into books I haven’t read in years.
There are many great resources out there for students of the Word. So if you’re not currently studying God’s magnificent, inspired, life-changing Word – no more excuses!
“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Tim. 3:15
