Cousins: Kendall Burwick, Barron Olaf, Gabriella Scoleri
This will be the last post on the significance of Bible study as one of the four components of a follower of Jesus Christ. Bible, prayer, community and mission.
Some may be asking, “Where do I begin in reading Scripture?” For the new follower of Jesus, it is recommended that you become very familiar with the Book of John. John is the best book of the Bible that describes who Christ is, His mission and how He wants to penetrate to the very core of our being.
To help internalize what is being read, it is suggested that notes be taken and the Bible marked up with underlining and notes. For example, in the book of James, it says, “Humble yourselves before the Lord.” In my Bible I have written beside that verse, “play golf.” I’ve just taken up the game again and my, how many worms I’ve killed with my flubs and divots, I can’t count that far! Golf – a humbling spiritual experience!
Another suggested game plan in approaching God’s Word is to read the Proverb of the day (today is the 26th, so read Proverbs 26.) Follow with a portion of the Psalms and close with a New Testament passage. Some people have trouble reading, so listen to the Bible on tape.
Another concern is, “what method of study best meets your learning style?” Some enjoy character studies. Study the book of Ruth and dig into her character – what made her so important as to have a complete book written about her. Others appreciate topical studies. That is how my first book on Anger was originated. I looked up every verse that had the words anger, bitterness, wrath, etc. Put it together for a one hour workshop that evolved into a book. I have many “unpublished books” that have provided a means of study that cranks my engine.
Character and topical studies. Some with the gift of teaching really take pleasure in beginning with the first verse of the first chapter of a book and digging into all the Hebrew or Greek meanings throughout the book. Memorizing Scripture is a powerful way of saturating your mind with God’s perspective. A google search on “Bible study methods” will give you many more approaches to God’s Word.
It is important to remember that the Bible is not a history book written many ages past, but it is a living word – God actually communicating with His people. Do we listen?
James 1:22-25 speaks to listening: But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it.
James 1:22-25 speaks to listening: But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it.
Our next post will address the issue of prayer for the fruitful follower of Jesus
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