Why do we study the Word?

To become spiritually mature

Hebrews 5:11-14 ~ “11 There is much more we would like to say about this, but it is difficult to explain, especially since you are spiritually dull and don’t seem to listen. 12 You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God’s word.[a] You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food. 13 For someone who lives on milk is still an infant and doesn’t know how to do what is right. 14 Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong.”

To be accountable to God

Hebrews 4:12-13 ~ "For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. 13 Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable."

To be guided by God

Psalms 119:105 ~ "Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path."

To live (fully) in Christ

Matthew 4:4 ~ "But Jesus told him, "No! The Scriptures say, ‘People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”

Bible Study: Text

Bible Study Steps

ASK:

Ask the Lord what you should study. He may lead you to study an entire book, a story, or a proverb. Be open to what the Lord is instructing you to do.

RESEARCH:

Get context for what you’re studying.

I’m currently studying the Book of Hebrews. Before I started studying, I read the historical context for this book. When was it written? Who wrote it? What was its purpose? Studying the context gives the who, what, when where, and why and sets the foundation for your understanding of your study.

BE PATIENT:

Spend time with scripture. Start with a verse or two at a time. You don't have to try to read a chapter at a time. Your study won't be as effective if you don’t understand what you read. Allow the Holy Spirit to give you an understanding of the scripture.

Bible Study: Text

A Prayer for Your Bible Study

Prayer is an essential part of our time with God. Prayer allows us to set the atmosphere for the Holy Spirit to rest upon us. When we invite God into our time of studying His Word, we invite His spirit of understanding and focus. Here’s a quick prayer for your time with the Lord.

PRAYER: “Lord, thank you for this opportunity to be in your presence. I pray that you would guide me as I spend time in your Word. Give me a spirit of understanding. Help me study your Word. May it be alive and active for my mind and my spirit. Teach me more about Your character, Your will, and Your way. May I receive your Word, understand it, retain it, and apply it. I pray that your Word would increase my faith in You, and help me to walk by your Spirit. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Bible Study: Text

Practical Bible Study Tips

Own a Study Bible

It is important to not only have a Bible, but one in a translation you understand. I recommend starting with the NLT, NIV, or NKJV translation. Having a study bible will allow you to study the historical context of the Word and answer any additional questions you may have.

Dictionary

When studying the Word, I recommend having a dictionary close at hand. This allows you to gain greater clarity on words you may not understand, as well as the context in which they are used. I recommend using an English dictionary, as well as a Greek and Hebrew Word study.

Commentary

To inform your study, I recommend using a commentary. Commentaries are compromised of notes and additional insights, often written by biblical scholars. I use the Enduring Word commentary.

*NOTE: Commentaries are not the Word of God. They merely provide detail and context to scripture. Always compare what you read in a commentary with the Bible.

Research

A simple Google search of "what does the Bible say about..." goes a long way. Research the things you are curious about as you study God's Word. My favorite sources include:

Journal

Use a journal or some method of note-taking as you study. Remember you are not merely reading the Word, but working to understand it. Taking notes allows you to write down any additional thoughts, questions, or prayers that arise as you study.

Bible Study: Text