by Jerry Senn
Five reasons we should study the Word
1. For knowledge of Jesus.
In John 5:39 we hear Jesus tell the scribes who were constantly examining the sacred scrolls, “You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me.” From beginning to end the focus of Bible study is to lead men and women to Jesus. But, studying without knowing its purpose causes our eyes to be blinded to this truth. (See John 17:3).
2. For spiritual growth.
Peter uses the analogy of a baby receiving nourishing milk to describe how the Bible will nourish us and grow us as believers. “Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation” (1 Peter 2:2).
3. For spiritual maturity.
The Hebrew writer uses the same analogy but in a negative sense. Mature believers can discern between good and evil because they have been trained for the challenges of spiritual adulthood. “You have become dull of hearing…You need someone to teach you…the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food,…for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. But solid food is for the mature,…for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good and evil” (Hebrews 5:12b-14).
4. For spiritual effectiveness.
We live in a time of unlimited opportunities. Where can we go if you want a thorough experience of being equipped in service in the body of Christians. There are many seminars and workshops, books, courses of instruction which invite us to learn. Paul wrote to Timothy and described the God-breathed Scripture as the source for gaining effectiveness in ministry. The Bible will reprove, correct and train us. (See 2 Timothy 3:16-17).
5. For spiritual joy and encouragement.
Psalm 1 introduces us to the righteous man who doesn’t allow the world’s message to shape his life. Instead, his “delight” is in the revelation of God; on that word he meditates day and night. Have we paused long enough to ponder (ruminate on) God’s words so that we know the encouragement and joy it brings? It is not that we “have to” but that we “get to.” (Some excerpts were from Peter Mead.)