by Chris Steele

October 7, 2007

If we had never studied the Bible, then how would we have ever learned of Jesus and become a Christian? If we studied the Bible at least once, and in fact we were baptized into Christ’s body, the church, then how would we ever grow and be strong in the faith if we never studied our Bible again? Once again, since Jesus said that, “...the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day” (John 12:48), therefore without knowing that “word” through study and meditation, we will come into judgment unprepared to meet our Judge.

It seems to me that Bible study is an extremely important factor in both becoming a Christian and remaining faithful as a child of God in order to receive a home in heaven someday. Why then do so many neglect Bible study?

We have a direct command from Paul. “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15). Peter said that we need to be able to give reasons for the things in which we believe. “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear” (1 Peter 3:15). The apostle also warned that without knowledge of God’s Word we could be lead away into error. “Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen” (2 Peter 3:17-18).

If you have gotten out of the habit of studying the Bible, it is time to change. Make the resolution to rectify the problem by picking up your Bible and reading and meditating on a passage of scripture every day. Make it a habit to attend all Bible study periods with your fellow Christian brothers and sisters. It is encouraging to everyone when you are in Bible class on Sunday morning and Wednesday evening. There is no time to waste. Classes are available for all ages, so the whole family can begin growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord. Why not come out and be with us and study God’s word together this week?