How can I derive the most from studying the Bible?
Introduction. It is commendable that we desire to profit from studying the greatest book man has ever known, the Bible. All the confusion, division, and misunderstanding in the religious world is evidence of the need to properly study the scriptures.
Approach the Bible with the right attitude. We must be aware of its importance as the basis of faith, sanctification, and the standard of eternal judgment (Rom. 10: 17, John 17: 17, John 12: 48). To be good students we must have an open mind (Acts 17: 11), study believingly (Acts 27: 25), and study with resolve to perform the Bible's teaching (Acts 10: 33-48).
We must rightly divide the scriptures. The scriptures are characterized by symmetry, sequence, and organization. When people randomly approach the Bible, chaos is inevitable. Paul taught Timothy to "handling aright the word of truth" (2 Tim. 2: 15, ASV). There are a number of time periods in the Bible (periods involving animal sacrifice, etc.). Also, the Old and New Covenants with their endemic teaching must be acknowledged (Heb. 7; 8).
Observance of basic rules of study. There is diligence and work involved in profitably studying the scriptures (2 Tim. 2: 15). Words must be understood and observed in their immediate context along with the general theme of the book containing them. Always observe by whom spoken, to whom spoken, prevailing circumstances, pertinent customs, and consider related verses. The general method of study will determine resultant belief. Always, then, employ the inductive method - taking all said on a given subject and arriving at a forced conclusion (deduction).
Conclusion. We are to prove all things and hold fast that which is good (1 Thes. 5: 21). We cannot expect heaven if we add or take away from God's word (Rev. 22: 18, 19). We must take care not to abuse the scriptures (see 2 Pet. 3: 16).
Approach the Bible with the right attitude. We must be aware of its importance as the basis of faith, sanctification, and the standard of eternal judgment (Rom. 10: 17, John 17: 17, John 12: 48). To be good students we must have an open mind (Acts 17: 11), study believingly (Acts 27: 25), and study with resolve to perform the Bible's teaching (Acts 10: 33-48).
We must rightly divide the scriptures. The scriptures are characterized by symmetry, sequence, and organization. When people randomly approach the Bible, chaos is inevitable. Paul taught Timothy to "handling aright the word of truth" (2 Tim. 2: 15, ASV). There are a number of time periods in the Bible (periods involving animal sacrifice, etc.). Also, the Old and New Covenants with their endemic teaching must be acknowledged (Heb. 7; 8).
Observance of basic rules of study. There is diligence and work involved in profitably studying the scriptures (2 Tim. 2: 15). Words must be understood and observed in their immediate context along with the general theme of the book containing them. Always observe by whom spoken, to whom spoken, prevailing circumstances, pertinent customs, and consider related verses. The general method of study will determine resultant belief. Always, then, employ the inductive method - taking all said on a given subject and arriving at a forced conclusion (deduction).
Conclusion. We are to prove all things and hold fast that which is good (1 Thes. 5: 21). We cannot expect heaven if we add or take away from God's word (Rev. 22: 18, 19). We must take care not to abuse the scriptures (see 2 Pet. 3: 16).