Before we begin learning the tools and methods of Bible Study, we must discuss a few essentials. Without knowing and following these essentials, our Bible Study will fall flat.
First, we should question everything. Like the Bereans did with Paul, we must make sure that what we are taught (through preaching, books or even casual conversation) is sound doctrine. We must test all ideas, concepts and teachings in the light of Scripture. Just because somebody respected is speaking, doesn’t mean that what they say is necessarily true. Stay on the safe side.
The saying “trust, but verify” is probably a good way of expressing what our attitude should be. We should not always doubt immediately, but we should also not accept a something immediately.
Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.
Acts 17:11
Test everything. Hold on to the good.
1 Thessalonians 5:21
More scriptures: 1 John 4:1; 1 Corinthians 2:14-15.
Second, we must commit to constantly UNlearning. This is something people often overlook. Make no mistake, we will not be able to continue learning if we are not willing to unlearn what we think we know. Staying open to being wrong is essential to growth. Often we must uproot the lie in order for the truth to become evident.
It was C.S. Lewis who said that everybody will be surprised by something when they get to heaven. N.T. Wright often jokes that a third of his teaching is wrong, but he just doesn’t know which part!
The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know.
1 Corinthians 8:2
Third, we are safest if we follow procedures. We should use the tools and methods which will be outlined in the following weeks. They will be tried and proven methods of Bible Study that have served many Christians over the centuries. Studying correctly is challenging, but the benefits are eternal!
Lastly, don’t be an island. It is easy to question others; a lot harder to submit your thoughts and ideas for criticism or questioning. We may often think that God has shown us truth but may be afraid of the criticism of others. We must fight the urge to keep to ourselves, and use any network of believers available to us to share what we’ve been learning. And always be open to unlearn again. This is an essential step if we don’t want to fall off the deep end!
