Consider the Lilies: Why Should I Study the Bible?

A quick search on Amazon will show that there are thousands of books to aid you in bible study. There are many different methods that can be used to study as well. But before you dive into them why are you studying? Why should I study?

*We are commanded to

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15)

We must study because He said so. Not studying His word is sinful.

*To know His commands

Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.(John 8:32-33)

Notice Jesus said if. If we continue to obey all of His word we are his disciples. We must study to know what his commands are.

*To increase our faith

So then faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the word of God. (Romans 10:17)

We gain faith through studying God's word.

*To put on the Christian Armour

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Ephesians 6:10-17)

We can't have any of these things without studying His word. Paul describes the word of God as the sword of the spirit. Are you going to go into battle without a weapon? No.(Well, not for very long anyways.)

*To give an answer

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)

If we are living as we should, people are going to notice. They're going to question our beliefs. Either because they're curious or to weaken our faith. We must be ready to give an answer. This doesn't mean you have to know the scripture and verse where the answer is found. But we have to know it's there. We can tell others "I can't recall the passage where that's found right now. Let me check and I'll let you know." Then go look for it! If you can't find it then it may not be in the Bible. Always back up your beliefs with scriptures! (And use them in context!)