10 Jul W2 | Understanding your Bible

Posted at 04:17h in August, Topics 2024 by

REFERENCE BIBLE VERSES

Hebrews 4:12 NKJV | “For the Word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”

OBJECTIVE

To understand that the Bible is a living guide in our life, when we read the Bible, we think about how it can be applied to our life.

CONTENT

THE IMPORTANCE OF LEARNING THE BIBLE

  • The Bible, unlike any other books, is God-breathed (2 Timothy 3:16-17), inspired by God. Breathed by God here means coming directly from God, not from the will of the writers He used to record them. It is not just a story book or a myth, it is a Living Word (Hebrews 4:12).
  • The Bible shows us the truth (John 8:32), which transforms our mind and helps us to discern right from wrong (Romans 12:2). The more time you spend reading the Bible, the more your way of thinking shifts to align with God’s perspective.
  • The Bible is like the “manual guide” of life. It touches every aspect of our lives such as faith, life management, character development, etc. (Proverbs 2:6). But most importantly, it talks about God’s character and His will & righteousness, so that we may follow His example and apply it to everything that we do in our daily lives. His words shall lead our path, guide our choices and decisions in life (Psalm 119:105).
  • The Bible provides spiritual nourishment for our souls, just as food nourishes our bodies (Luke 4:4). In this verse, Jesus emphasizes that physical sustenance is not enough for a fulfilling life. We are reminded of the significance of God’s word, which provides deeper spiritual nourishment. It’s an invitation to make scripture a fundamental part of our daily lives. Just as we would never skip a meal when we are hungry, we must also consistently feed our soul with God’s word to stay spiritually healthy and strong.
  • While the Bible was completed hundreds of years ago, its accuracy and relevance remain unchanged up to this day (Matthew 24:35). The Bible can teach us about the past, life’s solution for the present, and also inspire us with new ideas and innovations for the future.

HOW TO APPLY THE BIBLE TO OUR EVERYDAY LIVES

  • We can apply the bible to our lives by remembering key truths. To remember it, we must first learn about it. Reading is not the same as studying. Try to understand the context. We can also look for bible commentaries and published bible studies to deepen our understanding. Meditate about what God says to you through the verses (Joshua 1:8).
  • Believe what the Word says. Since we already know that the Bible is the truth, breathed by God, then we can rest assured to trust His Words (John 8:31-32).
  • Allow scripture to expose our sins (Hebrews 4:12). When the word speaks to you, confess your sins and ask God to help you. God’s Word will purify our hearts and lead us into sanctification.
  • Pray over what you’ve read. When we first gave our hearts to God, He filled us with the Holy Spirit who speaks to us and leads us in God’s truth. As we read the Bible, the Holy Spirit will guide us to understand it and live out God’s ways (Philippians 4:6-7).
  • Put the Words into our thoughts and practice them. The Parable of the Sower (Mat 13:2-23) explains about different responses to the gospel. We want to be like the good ground that portrays someone who receives the Word of God and produces grain. Applying the Bible is the duty of all Christians. If we don’t apply it, the Bible becomes nothing more to us than a normal book, an impractical collection of old manuscripts. That’s why Paul says, “Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you” (Philipians 4:9). When we apply the Bible, God Himself will be with us.

REFLECTION/DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

  • How do you seek the Word of God in your daily lives (listening to sermons, reading Bible, etc.)?
  • Share a memorable story from the Bible and how it applies to your life.

REFERENCES