There is no set order nor process to study the Bible. Yet, this lesson will point the way to some helpful suggestions that will increase Bible knowledge and familiarity of the Word of God.
There is a difference between reading and studying the Bible. Reading is a great source of comfort and encouragement. Study is the only source of strength, knowledge, growth, and ability to serve God. When you read, it is good if you read slowly, looking at each word. Pray before, during, and after you read, asking for God's wisdom and comfort to be yours. The Bible says, "But if any of you lacketh wisdom, let him ask of God, who giveth to all liberally and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him" (James 1:5). In this book of James, we are told the source and effect of God's wisdom. James wrote, "But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without variance, without hypocrisy" (James 3:17).
When we study there are five rules we ought always to maintain. First, keep in mind who wrote what you are reading. Second, when was this written? Third, to whom was it delivered? Fourth, why was it written (that is, what is the subject or burden of the writer)? Fifth, what conclusion can be drawn within the direct context and how does it add to the total context of this book, this subject, the whole Bible?
There are several types of study that one can engage in for growth. We can study just one verse, a chapter, a complete book, a word study, character study, or topical study. The balanced combination of all these will give us a well-rounded knowledge of God's will regarding any subject and doctrine. This is our goal!
There are several study aids that will help you in your study. If you cannot obtain these, there may be a possibility that we can help you. We cannot guarantee this but we shall try. One of the most often used study aids is a concordance to the Bible. This will help you find the references of a verse of which you may remember only a word or two.
What to study is always a puzzle to solve. Where does one begin? Obviously, it is good to begin with a general overall survey study of the Old and New Testaments. You have gone through this somewhat so far in our study together. When helping someone else begin a study of the Bible, encourage them to begin with a study of their salvation. What God expects of them and how they can be pleasing in His sight through their obedience to His Son, Jesus, is of vital importance to anyone not yet a Christian.
Consider from the following verses, reasons why we ought to study:
These are but a few of the reasons to study God's word. Pay close
attention to what God told Joshua, "This book of the law shall not depart
out of thy mouth, but thou shalt meditate thereon day and night, that thou
mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then
thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success"
(Joshua 1:8). For the same kinds of reasons Joshua was to keep, read,
and obey the Old Law of God, so we also must keep, study, and obey the
New Law of Christ. Here are some helpful attitudes to maintain while
we study:
We hope that these scriptural suggestions are helpful to you in guiding you to study and how to choose what to study. God bless you as you continue to do so!