Reasons to Study the Bible

There are many reasons to study the Bible, but perhaps the most basic reasons rest in what the Bible is and what it does for us. Anyone such as a Christian parent or children’s Bible teacher should have a firm conviction that the Bible is a different kind of book in its nature and provides real benefits to those who love and study it. We should, therefore, study the Bible because of its nature (what it is) and because of its benefits (what it does). What do we mean by the nature and benefits of Scripture as reasons to study the Bible?

We Study the Bible Because of Its Nature

Most Christians will understand that we study the Bible primarily because we believe it is the actual Word (and words) of God. Because God is the Author of the Bible, it is a book unlike any other and is, therefore, worthy of our devoted attention and interest. Because God is the Author, we believe its message(s) is/are supremely valuable and more important than the messages found in any other book. Can you imagine? The God and Creator of the universe has chosen to speak to us objectively through a book. We don’t have to wonder about God or what He wants us to know. We don’t have to guess what He is thinking. This alone should motivate us to take seriously the study of the Bible. We study the Bible because the nature of the book makes it supremely important.

We Study the Bible Because of Its Benefits

Everything about the created order suggests that God is a sovereign, intelligent, and gracious Creator. If we believe the Bible is God’s objective Word, then it’s reasonable also to believe that it contains the words and messages that we need to hear and understand. However, is it reasonable to think the Creator of the universe is capable of speaking in language we can comprehend? The answer, of course, is yes. Just as God created a world suitable for us and within our capacity to manage, so He has spoken to us in words that are intelligible and within our understanding.

Further, His words aren’t just intelligible. They are highly relevant. In the Bible, He has spoken to us regarding where we came from, where we fit in, and where we are going. These words provide us with guidance and insight for our relationships, for our ambitions, and for how we spend our lives. We study the Bible because it is highly beneficial to us to do so. “Therefore, everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them will be like a sensible man who built his house on the rock” (Matt. 7:24).

Whatever your role may be in relationship to a church or a Bible study class, you can be certain there are many good reasons to study the Bible. The task is valuable and worthy of your time and energy!

Rick Edwards
Author, Speaker, Bible Teacher

See a list of other articles by Rick Edwards.

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