First, in order to study the Bible, we must begin by understanding that the Bible is not a text book, a history book, or a set of lessons all laid out in a simple fashion. Instead the Bible is a collection of 66 books, written over 1600 years by some 36 authors. The Bible contains "Salvation History" or historical accounts of God working through His people to do His will. In short, the Bible is about Jesus the Messiah and Savior. The Old Testament people looked forward in faith to His day. In our day, we look backward in faith to His life and the instructions He gave His followers. In faith, we all look forward to His coming again.
Why study the Bible? Because, the Word of God has been likened to a light to guide us through this dark world. "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." (Psalm 119:105). Jesus asks us to, "Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life; and they are they which testify of me." (John 5:39). Furthermore, Paul the Apostle remarked to his young friend Timothy, "Study to shew thyself approved of God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15), and then further reminded him that, "All scripture is given by God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness." (2 Timothy 3:16).
Of course, we today, applying the principle of what Jesus and Paul was saying, feel that we too should search and study the Bible and in it find instruction for living in this present life and life forever after.
How do we study the Bible?
Begin with prayer. Ask God to give you wisdom and understanding as you open His Holy Word. If you are brand-new to the Bible, don't start with the Gospel of Matthew and the "begats." Instead, start with the Gospel of Mark which is only 16 chapters long. Next move on to the 21 chapters of the Gospel of John. However, take notice of how each book begins. Mark begins his account of the life of Jesus at the entrance of John the Baptist, while John goes all the way back to the beginning of time. On the other hand the Gospel of Matthew begins with an all important list of the family line of Jesus. While Dr. Luke's Gospel begins with the parents of John the Baptist. Four different writers telling of the life and times of Jesus from four differing points of view.
Next, read the Acts of the Apostles and learn in more detail about what happened in the lives of the followers of Jesus after His crucifixion. Once this is completed, you can move on into the Epistles or letters of the New Testament. It is vitally important that you remember that you are reading only one side of the story. In many cases, the letter is being written in response to some problem in a church that the Apostle has heard about. For instance in Galatians 1:6, the Apostle Paul writes a letter saying, "I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel." Obviously Paul is upset because word has gotten back to him that there are big problems in the Galatian church. Paul thunders at them, "O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth...?" Galatians 3:1. In yet another instance he writes to the Corinthian church, "For first of all, when ye come together in the church, I hear that there be divisions among you; and I partly believe it." 1 Corinthians 11:18.
The examples cited about point out that the reader will find that much of the New Testament is written to individual churches or people groups. Certainly, the thunderings of Paul were not meant specifically for us today, but we can apply the principles laid down by the Apostle to modern life. Someone has said that history doesn't repeat itself, but human nature does! Dealing with death, sorrow, disease, illness, plus lying, cheating, stealing, gossiping, adultery, and all of the aspects of sin applies to us today just as it did to the Christians of the first century. Likewise, the Old Testament is full of people stories and lessons we can use in our daily lives.
Would you like to know your Bible better? There is power in the Word of God for you. Jesus says, "Ask, and it shall be given you, seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you." Matthew 7:7.

Marvin Hunt

Blessings in your study of God's Word!

Marvin Hunt

There is never a charge for my articles, and if you have a good reason, there is no limit to how many you may request. However, if you find them valuable you may want to order my latest book, History, Mystery and Facts About the Bible. Order at 1-800-845-7618 (ext. 301). You may also order from Amazon.com. Proceeds from the book go to support this ministry.

Blessings!
Marvin Hunt

Http://www.biblehistory.com

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