How to Study the Bible

Introduction

Whenever you are given a charge to do something, it is always important to know why. Sometimes we don't have the luxury of knowing why other than “because I said so”. You'll find that your parents are not the only ones who do this; even Yahweh has given us commandments that only test our willingness to obey.

However, there is a true purpose to studying the scriptures. Actually, there are many reasons, but they all are part of one purpose. That purpose, and its many parts, are the subject of this lesson. The lesson is divided into three groups: Past, Present and Future.

Scriptures

The following are scriptures that relate to studying the scriptures.

Ephesians 4:11-16

2 Timothy 2:14-15

14 Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Master that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.
15 Study to shew thyself approved unto Yahweh, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

2 Timothy 3:16-17

16 All scripture is given by inspiration of Yahweh, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
17 That the man of Yahweh may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

2 John 1:9-10

9 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Messiah, hath not Yahweh. He that abideth in the doctrine of Messiah, he hath both the Father and the Son.
10 If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him Yah speed:

Understand the Past

Know the Truth

It is so easy to hear a nice religious story or bible-based story and accept it as it is because it teaches a good lesson. However, not all stories told are completely truthful and it may be very important that you know which parts are the truth and which are “artistic license”.

Discussion Questions:

Did you ever hear someone tell a story that was based on the bible, but was not completely truthful?
What about a story that was 100% true, but left out important events?

Law vs. Tradition

So often, we have someone who walks up to us to tell us we are doing something incorrect in relation to scripture. They may say to a woman, “it is required that you wear something to cover your head during the service”. It is also likely someone may tell a man he must wear tassels or even a prayer shawl for “it is commanded”. Unless you study the scriptures, you cannot possibly know what you should and should not do. Many times, you'll find out that what some people take as commandments are really traditions now taught as law.

Mark 7:6-8

6 He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.
7 Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.
8 For laying aside the commandment of Yahweh, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.

Discussion Questions:

Have you ever heard of anyone telling another person to do something that was not in scripture?
How do you know the difference between a law and a tradition in scripture?

Consider the Present

Increase your Faith

Sometimes, we hear of archaeological discoveries that prove that some person or city or object in scripture actually existed. If you have a greater understanding of scripture, these discoveries will also have a greater impact on your own faith.

Discussion Questions:

What do you believe would be a biblical discovery that would impact the world?
Have you heard of any discoveries lately that prove something in the bible?

Get closer to Yahweh

An important facet of studying the scriptures is knowing that every bit of it was directly written down for you and every other person. Yahweh gave many words and instructions to his people then that have significance now as well. Every chapter you read was written for you.

Psalm 19:7-11

Psalm 119:97-104

Discussion Questions:

Are there parts of the bible that bore you completely? Is it because you feel it is not directly applied to you?

Expect the Future

Know what is Coming

Finally, we have to be prepared for what is going to happen in the future. It may be in my lifetime, more likely in your lifetime, or even after we are all gone. However, we have no excuse to be lazy about it and not be ready just because we feel we have plenty of time left. So you must study to know what will happen and what signs you must watch for.

Mark 13:30-37

Matthew 24:42-51

Discussion Questions:

So what do we need to watch for?
Does this mean you must deeply study prophecies and know exactly what will happen and when?