Study Scripture

Why Be A Student of the Bible?

Dr. Mike Life Tools , , ,
Deuteronomy 8:3
..but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. ESV.

The Bible is a book that reveals the portal of life. Within its pages are the lessons learned by those who have gone before us. As you peruse each chapter, you come to realize that human behavior, experiences, and desires have remain the same for thousands of years. Or as one historian stated, there is nothing new under the sun except technology and fashion.

As you read, you will become a student of history, psychology, and human relations.  The Book becomes your manual for everyday joy. Throughout its pages, you discover more of God’s character, purpose, and story. You discover where real peace and prosperity comes from and how to attain them. You learn to separate real Truth from the lies thrown your way each and every day. You come to experience and share the power of love from God’s heart.

You learn to quickly recognize the hypocrisy and fears in yourself and others. But more importantly, you find the faith which leads to the dismantling of these ugly demons in yourself and others.

As you read and study the events, circumstances, and lives of people who encountered God, you realize you have more in common with them then not. And more importantly, over time you will come to know the Author of Life and your place with Him. You will uncover your true identity and purpose which will lead to a more meaningful life of adventure and passion.

You may even come to realize that the Book was personally written just for you. That the God revealed through its pages truly loves you and wants what is best for you. That He wants a personal relationship with you. That He is nothing like the stern grandfather you may have heard from others. Instead, He is the loving Dad who provides, protects, and shares life with all his children.

When you come to the place where you recognize there are more Pros than Cons to study the Bible, then do the smart thing; make the commitment. In hindsight, it will be one of the best decisions you will make in your entire life time. Or it may be one of those regretful choices that you would have liked to have changed. Either way, your choice today will determine your quality of life tomorrow.

Rooting For You in Christ!

Dr. Mike

Encourager & Founder of
Vocational Leadership 360
Author of e-Books:

*  Dancing With God: Life-Giving Theology Explained
*  Great Business Emulates a Good God
*  Be Radical…Follow Christ!
*  Simply The Messenger
*  Unequally Married

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How To Read The Bible For the First Time?

Dr. Mike Bible Life Questions, Shaped By The WORD , ,
Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so. Acts 17:11 ESV.

read the bible 1

 

If you asked me today how to best read the Bible, my answer would be something like this:

First, read the book like any other story narrative. Start in the first book called Genesis and read right through until you finish the last book called Revelations. However read with only one question in mind: “How does God relate to humanity?” As you read, get to know God’s attributes, purposes, and mode of operation.  Don’t get stuck trying to understand anything else at this time but only focus on who “God IS.”

When you have finished, plan to reread the entire Bible one more time. This time though pay particular attention in how humanity responds to God. However this time read first the New Testament before the Old Testament. But again only study how mankind behaves before God. Don’t get sidetrack on anything else at this time.

After you have completed that assignment, then re-read the entire book from beginning through end with only one other question in mind: “How does this apply to me?” As you read you will become more aware of how God may be working with you. Some scripture may only make you yawn. Others you will find yourself strongly relating too. You will discover more about yourself as you focus on how God has worked with others and how others have responded to Him.

Only after going through the above exercise, I would than study one book at a time starting with the New Testament.  Read each book to discover the major theme, audience, and purpose behind the writing. You will not need any outside material to assist you. Instead, look for supporting points toward your main theme and outline it in your own words. This exercise will help you recognize when people take scripture out of context to make a personal point. When you recognize how that specific scripture supports the theme and answers the specific reason for the book, you will know probably just as much as any so-called Bible scholar.

You will find the Holy Spirit working with you as you discover more about God, humanity, and yourself in the process. It is a lifelong journey so don’t expect to understand everything you read at once. Through life’s divine appointments, listening to others, and walking in the Spirit, the Bible will become a relevant tool in your hand to decipher the season of life you are going through. When you look back, you will realize that the Bible is a living testament of 40 authors inspired by God so we may come to know Him more intimately as He reveals Himself through its pages. You will also come to recognize Him in the many daily routines and through life’s diverse moments.  It all happens as you lean on Him studying His expressed Word like those Jews who were considered more noble than those in Thessalonica.

Rooting For You in Christ!

Dr. Mike

Executive Director & Founder
Marketplace Bible Institute
& Resource Center, Inc
Author of e-Books:
 *  Great Business Emulates a Good God
 *  Be Radical…Follow Christ!
 *  Simply The Messenger
 *  Unequally Married

Does a Friend Need Encouragement…Share Today’s Message!