Curiously enough, we find that the Bible is not a book that everyone can readily understand. Many find it puzzling, difficult to figure out. How, then, can we come to understand it?
The first set of keys to comprehension can be grouped under the umbrella of the right approach we must have at the outset of our reading and study.
We must come to the Bible with the right attitude and perspective; looking with profound respect and reverence to divine Author behind its pages, willing to believe and follow what He says.
Without this approach, we may be able to discern certain biblical truths on at least some level. To get the big picture, we need to approach the Scripture with the right frame of mind.
Let's now explore a number of important keys that will help open up this Book of books to your understanding.
1. Pray for understanding: This is the first vital key to understanding His Word. Before you even begin to study, ask God to guide and show you His will. Remember that it is the Creator who gives true understanding through His Word. You cannot gain it on your own (read Psalm 119:33-40; Proverbs 3:5-8; Jeremiah 9:23-24).
Understanding God's Word is not a matter of superior intellect. God looks on the heart, our attitude and approach, to determine whether to give us understanding. The apostle Peter tells us: "in truth I perceive that God shows no partiality".
2. Keep an open mind: Be willing to admit when you are wrong and change, even if it means letting go of a long-held belief or tradition. If you can successfully apply this one principle, you will be far ahead in the search for spiritual truth (Acts 17:11; Isaiah 8:20).
Why is attitude so important? Paul reveals the answer. "Instead, God deliberately chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. On the other hand, once a person humbly asks God for help and is committed to obeying what he learns, he is on the right path to understanding.
3. Humbly seek instruction and correction: Approach the Bible with a teachable, humble attitude.The Word of God judges our innermost thoughts. It can show us who we really are. It can reveal every flaw in our character. So be ready to heed it's correction (Jeremiah 10:23-24; Isaiah 66:1-2, Romans 8:6-9; Matthew 5:48).
4. Accept the inspiration of all the Bible: The entire Bible, both Old and New Testaments, is the inspired Word of God. When studying, keep in mind that He inspired the words you are reading; God is directly speaking to you through them (2 Peter 1:21; Philippians 2:5; John 6:63).
5. Plan time for regular study: It's easy to let everyday concerns interfere, so schedule study time and try to maintain it. Over time you will look forward to this daily experience (Ephesians 5:15-17).
6. Let the Bible interpret itself: If something seems confusing and even contradictory, let clear biblical passages shed light on those you find difficult to understand. Scriptures do not contradict each another; they complement each other. Also, to properly understand a verse in the Bible, don't force your personal point of view into it. Instead use the context and other relevant scriptures to find the correct meaning (2 Peter 1:20; John 10:35; Isaiah 28:9-10).
7. Study topics: Concentrate, at various times, on one subject, doctrine or book, Use a concordance or other study aid to put together all the scriptures relevant to a subject. This will allow you to see all that God has to say about a particular topic (2 Timothy 2:15, KJV).
8. Read the whole Bible: Go through the Bible from cover to cover. By reading every section of the Bible, you give yourself a broad familiarity and perspective that will help you shed preconceived ideas about doctrinal subjects.
9. Compare different translations: The Bible was written in ancient languages, and scholars sometimes differ on how certain verses should be translated today. A literal rendering is often preferred, but a thought-for-thought translation or paraphrase is sometimes better at capturing the intent of ancient figures of speech. We must also be aware that doctrinal bias can influence translation. Comparing Bible versions will inform us on disagreements in translation and help us to sort through such issues.
10. Use study aids properly: Many Bible study aids are quite helpful. They can provide valuable historical background or point you to other scriptures that add clarity to what you are reading. Aids include concordances, lexicons,dictionaries, maps,and commentaries. However, always keep in mind that such resources are not Scripture and can be wrong.
11. Seek guidance from God's Church: It is always best to seek help from qualified people, God has commissioned His servants to guide people into a fuller understanding of His Word. If you have questions, feel free to contact your spiritual head.
12. Take notes: Jot down notes and explanatory comments in your Bible, a notebook or computer. This will help you remember key ideas or related scriptures. Some people use a marking system, with colors or symbols, to keep tract of key verses by categories. This can help you save time when looking for a particular section of Scripture.
13. Review and meditate: Take time to ponder what you have been learning. If something seems hard to understand, take some time to consider its meaning, using what you have already learned as the starting point. Reflect on what the Bible is saying and on how you can apply the verses in everyday life (Psalm 1:1-3; 119:97-99; 139:17-18).
14. Obey God's Word and prove it right: Put God's Word to the test by practicing the things you are learning. Acknowledge how His ways bring positive change in your life. The best way to determine that God's commands and teachings bring true peace and blessings is by living them (Psalm 111:10; 1 John 10:10, Malachi 3:10).
15.Finally, hold fast: Once you have proven something to be true, don't allow yourself to be lightly convinced out of it. While new evidence may overturn your previous conclusion, this must be the product of serious study in God's Word. And always beware, because false teachers can lead you astray. Ask God to help you remain true to His teachings (1 Thessalonians 5:21; 2 Timothy 3:13-15; Colossians 1:22-23; Psalm 119:10-16).
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