To Understand What the Bible Means....

2 TIM 2:14-18; 2 PET. 1:20

THEME: Today We Want to Focus on the Character of the Bible as a Reason to Interpret Scripture.   

                                                                                                           

RELEVANCY: Why do I Need to Know About why we should Interpret Scripture?

Without solid principles for interpreting the Bible, we can easily misunderstand even the simplest and most forthright passage. With such guidelines we can discern the intent of some of the more difficult passages. Many differences over doctrine are rooted in the method used to decide the meaning of a passage; thus, it is awfully important to be skilled in the basic principles for discovering the meaning of Bible passages.

INTRODUCTION: One reason we must interpret is the very character and nature of the Scriptures. They are removed from us by thousands of years, a vastly different cultural setting, customs that seem strange to us, and places we have never visited. To be confident about our grasp of any passage, we must consider these factors and use interpretive strategies that examine these characteristics. Because this involves serious work many will dismiss the significance of this point. I encourage you to consider these factors as they will guide you to understanding the truth.

LESSON:

THE NATURE AND CHARACTER OF SCRIPTURE DEMANDS THAT WE INTERPRET THE BIBLE

Interpretation is necessary not only because of God’s clear commandments and who we are as readers but also because of the nature of Scripture itself.

1.  The Bible Is the Message of a Changeless God And, as Such, Is Timeless and Always Relevant. However, as Fee and Stuart explain,

The Bible is not a series of propositions and imperatives; it is not simply a collection of “Sayings from Chairman God,” as though he looked down at us from heaven and said: “Hey you down there, learn these truths. Number 1, There is no God but One, and I am he. Number 2, I am the Creator of all things, including humankind”—and so on, all the way through proposition 7,777 and imperative 777.  

Although the Bible does contain these truths, they are not recorded in this form. Throughout the Bible God becomes personally involved in people's lives. He does not offer stale remedies and pious platitudes but rather speaks directly to their needs in ways that are appropriate to their situations. The Holy Spirit, through human penmen, wrote the biblical texts to be timely to their original recipients. Therefore, the biblical texts address specific situations and questions. This historical particularity makes interpretation of the Bible challenging and fascinating. (Anders)

2.  The Goal of Bible Interpretation must be to Understand What the Author Was Trying to Say to His Original Readers. 

As Gordon D. Fee and Douglas Stuart note,

God's Word to us was first of all his Word to them”. To elaborate: “A text cannot mean what it never meant. Or to put it in a positive way, the true meaning of the biblical text for us is what God originally intended it to mean when it was first spoken. This is the starting point.

To understand what the Bible means, we must first understand what it meant to the original readers. This is hard, however, because of the distance of time, culture, and language between us and the first readers.

3. The Characteristics the Student Must Consider:

A. Time

The sixty-six books of the Bible were composed over a 1,500-year period that ended nineteen centuries ago. The world has changed a great deal since the last words were written, and without study we simply do not know what the world was like then. Without that knowledge, it is hard for us to understand what is at stake in many parts of the Bible.

For example, it is hard to understand Jonah’s unwillingness to obey God and preach in Nineveh until we learn that Nineveh was the most hated nation (and not just by Israel) of the eighth century b.c. It was a cross between Nazi Germany and the Mafia. Why should he want to help them?

One can find in Manners and Customs of the Bible information about the people, language, customs, and peculiarities of the Bible peoples.  The book moves through each book of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation highlighting and relating information regarding the religious, political, social, civil, military, and domestic customs.  This tool allows the student to understand more of the Bible's historical context which often sheds much light on a passage of Scripture.  It is a great help to understand the way people lived and taught in ancient times and cultures.

B. Culture

Significant cultural distance separates us from the world of the biblical texts. We must not overlook the importance of the life and times, the culture and conditions, the background of code and custom against which the Bible was written. An understanding of the way people lived in their culture and climate is extremely valuable to the Bible student. Since we are from the Western world and belong to a different time, another culture, with non-identical values and idiosyncrasies, we must seek to avoid interpreting the Bible within the framework of our own world. Therefore, it is essential that we possess a strong grasp of the times and culture of the specific biblical text in consideration.

For example, we cannot understand the book of Ruth apart from understanding the right and responsibility an available relative had to redeem the land of his dead relative and raise up a child to the childless widow.

In addition, Matthew 24:41, says, “Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left.”   This interesting verse portrays two women working in near proximity with each other and then at the coming of Christ they are severed the one from the other.  Grinding at the mill was a lengthy tedious pain staking task that the women managed in preparation for the meals and the baking of bread. In Matthew 24:41 the Savior spoke of two women grinding at the mill and suddenly one is taken away and the other is left behind.  The mill itself consisted of two stone slabs probably shaped like wheels and placed on top of each other. Grain was placed in a center hole in the top stone and ground as the wheels are turned.  It took two ladies to operate the mill.  One would hold the handle in the top stone with both hands and the other will hold with one hand and continually feed the mill with the grain.  Round and around they would move the stone upon the other one thus, effectively crushing the grain.  They would position a container to catch the flour as it poured out of the sides of the mill.  This fatiguing type work was often relegated to the lowest of servants, slaves or even captives.  The idea of the Lord’s return dividing these two workers at the mill is powerful and arresting. His coming will be so decisive and exacting that even this very intimate association and interactive work will be abruptly interrupted precisely taking away one while distinctly leaving the other. (J. Phillips)

Also, writers living before the discovery of germs or molecules did not express truth in the ways and manners of modern scientists. If they had, their writings would have made no sense to anyone until our age arrived.

C. Geography

We are also geographically distant from the authors and recipients of the biblical books.

A knowledge of geography clarifies a passage. 

Consider John 2:11–13, in which Jesus had just been to a wedding in the Galilean town of Cana: This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him.  [12] After this he went down to Capernaum, he, and his mother, and his brethren, and his disciples: and they continued there not many days. [13] And the Jews' passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem (John 2:11-13).

Why did John say they went down to Capernaum from Cana, when Capernaum is north of Cana? And why did he say they went up to Jerusalem when Jerusalem is south of Capernaum? The answer is that we, in the modern world, are oriented to looking at maps with north being up and south being down. If we are in Louisiana, we say we are going up to New York. If we are in Washington, we say we are going down to California. But the peoples of Bible times did not have maps the way we do. When they said they went down from Cana to Capernaum, they meant they went down! That is, they descended in altitude. Cana is in the hills. Capernaum is on the shore of the Sea of Galilee, lower in altitude than Cana. When they went up to Jerusalem from Capernaum, John meant they went up! Approximately a thousand feet! When you are walking, you are acutely aware of what up and down are (down is easier).

Knowing the location of the towns, the approximate terrain, the major bodies of water, and so forth helps a person visualize these verses, and they come to life. Without a knowledge of geography, these verses tend to lie lifeless on the page.  (Anders)

D. Language

         1) Types of Language.  Linguistic distance separates us from the biblical texts. The Old Testament was primarily written in ancient Hebrew, although there are a few passages in the related tongue of Aramaic. The New Testament was composed in Greek. The authors in each use words and phrases with which we are not totally familiar. 

         2) Types of Literature.  To communicate His message as clearly as possible, God used many different forms of literature, including formal instruction, narration, parables, poetry and proverbs, and prophecy. Each of these literary forms has special principles that must be followed for proper interpretation. (Heb. 1:1-2)

The writer may use personifications which is, “the most interesting and prolific figure of speech in the Bible.” This is a literary form in which one ascribes human characteristics to a non-human thing. This can be expanded to include human actions or emotions credited to inanimate objects or even animals. This feature makes them easier to recognize. Some examples in the Bible would include Deuteronomy 13:8, “Neither shall thine eyes pity him” and then another example is, “Let not thy left hand know,” (Matthew 6:3). Other excellent examples can be found in Isaiah 35:1; 55:12; Joel 1:10; Judges 5:20; Psalm 85:10, and James 1:15. (J. Phillips)

E. Jesus Christ is the Ultimate Key to Understanding the Entire Bible!

When interpreting the Bible, it is extremely important to maintain a sharp look out for any information or details about the person and work of the Lord Jesus. He is the ultimate key to interpreting the Bible accurately.  For example, in the book of Genesis He appears as the mighty Creator, the seed of the woman promised to Adam, He is also the star that would rise out of Jacob, and the Lion of the Tribe of Judah.  In the book of Exodus, He appears as the Passover lamb, He is in the detail of every facet of the Tabernacle, He is the Shekinah glory in the Holy of Holies, He is the manna and the smitten rock.  In the book of Leviticus, He is each offering and the great high priest, as well as the goats on the Day of Atonement.  In the book of Ruth, Christ is the kinsmen redeemer. And in the book of Isaiah, He is the Servant of Jehovah and the lamb lead to the slaughter and the wonderful Messiah who will reign in power, justice, and glory. (J. Phillips)

Christ is wonderfully revealed in the books of Psalms, Proverbs, and Song of Solomon. In Psalm 1, He is the blessed man, in Psalm 2, He is the Son that man should kiss before it is too late and in Psalm 23, He is the good divine Shepherd who leads and satisfies. In Psalm 22, and 69, we find Him as the suffering Savior and then in the 24th division He is the King of Glory.  Then back in Psalm 8, we find Him as the perfect man and in the 45th division He is the awesome and mighty God. The Psalm are filled with prophetic and Messianic snapshots and expositions of Christ.

In the book of Proverbs, He is wisdom personified and incarnated. Then in the Song of Solomon he is the handsome shepherd who wins the heart of the Shulamite girl and is victorious over all worldly attractions.

The Lord Jesus Christ is seen in the New Testament books of Matthew through 2 Timothy.  For example, in Matthew He is the king of Israel, the nation of the Jews; in Mark he is portrayed as the servant of Jehovah; in the Gospel of Luke he is the Son of Man; then John presents him as the Son of God.  In the book of Acts, Christ is active through His Spirit and the Apostles as the ascended head of the churches.  In Paul's letter to the Romans, Christ is our righteousness; in 1Corinthians Jesus is the firstfruits from the dead. The Book of Galatians presents him as the end of the Law of Moses and in Ephesians He is the head, the bridegroom, and the foundation of his churches. In Philippians He is in the form of God and is the supplier of all our needs.  In the book of Colossians, he is the creator, sustainer, owner of the universe, and the preeminent one over all.  In I Thessalonians, He is coming again for the redeemed in the Rapture; then in 2 Thessalonians He is the coming judge of all the earth. Then in 1 Timothy he is seen as the One Mediator between God and man; in 2 Timothy he is described as the judge of the both the living and the dead. (J. Phillips)

The Lord Jesus Christ can be seen in the New Testament books of Hebrews through the Revelation. In Hebrews He appears as the great antitype to all the types: son, priest, sacrifice, heir, greater than Aaron or Melchisedec, greater than both Moses, Joshua, and the angels.  He is both the Son of man and the Son of God.  Therefore, we are encouraged to keep our eyes on Jesus. James depicts him as the Lord of Sabaoth and the one great healer.  In 1 Peter He is the inheritance of the believer and the Chief Shepherd of the flock.  In 1 Peter he appears as the One from the excellent glory. Then in 1 John, Jesus is the Word incarnate; in 2 John he is the One who enables our souls to prosper and the name in which the Gospel is preached. Jude tells us that Christ is the preserver, the only Lord God, the only wise God, he is our Savior, and he is glorious in majesty.  In the book of the Revelation, Jesus is the coming king, and the one who uphold all things by the word of His power, the sustainer of all forces and factors in the universe, and the Great Sovereign bending the atom and the cosmos to the pattern of His will. (J. Phillips)

CONCLUSION:

As we have said, the meaning of a given passage in the Bible is not always clear to us. There are three reasons. First, we bring to the interpretation certain assumptions that might not be correct. Second, a great gap of time, culture, and language results in some things written in the Bible being perfectly clear to the ones to whom it was written, and perfectly incomprehensible to us two or three thousand years later. Finally, all communication needs to be interpreted. I have even read things that I have written, and I no longer know what I meant by them. How much more might I be confused by someone else's writing! Oral language is usually accompanied by facial expressions, non-verbal cues, body language, vocal inflections, and so forth. But you do not have these clues to interpretation with the written Word. Therefore, when trying to master the Scriptures so that the Word of God can master us, we must work hard at discovering what the Bible says and what it means.

Study the Bible…Why?

2 TIM. 2:14-18; 2 PET. 1:20

THEME: We need to develop the discipline to study the Bible to interpret it accurately. 

                                                                                                           

RELEVANCY: Every Believer needs to know how to interpret Scripture accurately to explore and satisfy God’s plan.

INTRODUCTION:

If you believe what you like in the Gospel and reject what you do not like, it is not the Gospel you believe, but yourself. —St. Augustine

Confusion reigns over the world of Christianity today, and it is without doubt that Satan is using this to keep the "minds of them which believe not" blinded from the truth of the Gospel. Indeed, many Christians themselves are ignorant of "the whole counsel of God."

Much of this confusion stems from faulty interpretations of the Word of God. Many differences over doctrine are rooted in the method of Biblical interpretation employed; thus, it is extremely important to be grounded in the basic discipline of Bible Study.

Lesson:

GOD CLEARLY COMMANDS BIBLE STUDY FOR ALL BELIEVERS

2 Tim. 2:15, Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. [16] But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.

    1.  The Bible is to Be Studied with Diligence.

“Study to show thyself approved unto God,” we are to give diligence, or make an effort to fulfil the duties of Bible study, preaching, and teaching to meet with God’s approval.

         a.  The Goal of the Ministry and Bible Study Is Not to Please Men.

The care of ministers must be to approve themselves unto God, to be accepted of Him, and to show that they meet God’s standards of ministry. Correct doctrines should be preached, and Christ-centered plans made, and a God pleasing lifestyle pursued. 

        b.  To Do this Demands STUDY of God’s Word! Because there are many temptations to the tendency of seeking popular favor with men rather than the divine approval. If ANY man please God, it will be as the result of deliberate attention to study and a careful application of God’s Word to His own lifestyle.

        c.  The Results Will Be Confidence in Our Ministry Before God.

“A workman that needeth not to be ashamed,” a man faithfully performing his duty, so that when he looks over what he has done, he may not be embarrassed or offer excuses.  Ministers must be “workmen”; they have work to do, and they must take pains in it. Workmen that are unskillful, or unfaithful, or lazy, have need to be ashamed; but those who mind their business, and keep to their work, are workmen that have no need to be ashamed.

    2.  The Bible is to Be Carefully and Thoughtfully Applied.

“Rightly dividing the word of truth,” the words "rightly dividing," means, "to cut straight, to divide right;” and the allusion here may be to a steward who makes a proper distribution to each one under his care of such things as his office and their necessities require.

        a.  That is, Rightfully and Skillfully Teaching the Word of Truth. The idea seems to be, that the preacher of the gospel is to make a proper distribution of that Word, adapting his instructions to the circumstances and needs of his congregation, and giving to each member that which will be most appropriate to nourish the soul. He knows his people and strives to help them by interpreting and applying the Word to their lives.

Therefore, by rightly dividing the word of truth, we are to understand his continuing in the true doctrine, and teaching that to every person; and, according to our Lord's simile, giving each his portion of meat in due season-milk to babes, strong meat to the full grown, comfort to the disconsolate, reproof to the irregular and careless; in a word, finding out the necessities of his hearers, and preaching so as to meet those necessities. --(from Adam Clarke's Commentary)    

        b.  We Must Be Careful to Avoid Corrupting the Scriptures.

1 Tim. 1:3, As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,

2 Cor. 2:17, For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.

         c.  We Are to Pass on the Same Things We Have Been Taught from God’s Word.

2 Tim. 2:2, And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

Preaching, teaching, and counseling from God’s Book is serious business and requires hard work and discipline. As students who care about conveying the hope and peace of God’s truth to the hearts of hungry and needed souls, this matters greatly. We dare not take this responsibility lightly!

     3.  Errors and their Teachers are to Be Shunned.

2 Timothy 2:16, But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.

We must develop and intentionally cultivate the ability to discern false ideas and distinguish these from the truth. Such skill comes with careful and skilled study of the Word. We must become so familiar with the truth that a lie becomes obvious.

         a.  God’s View of False Teachings.

“But shun profane and vain babblings,” (See 1 Tim 6:20).

This is the character he gives of the preaching of the false teachers. Whatever was not agreeable to the doctrine of truth was, in the sight of God, empty and profane babbling; engendering nothing but ungodliness, and daily increasing in the same. God straightly charges us to shun such confusing misconceptions and ideas. Do not read their books, listen to them on the radio, or attend their meetings. God is saying stay way from these vain babblings!

          b.  The Consequences of False Teachings.

“For they will increase unto more ungodliness,” their tendency is to alienate the soul from God, and to lead to sinful irresponsible living. These kinds of teachings are not merely a waste of time, they are productive of positive mischief. A person enamored with conflict in religious matters is not interested in the practical duties of a holy life style, or any in depth sense of right and wrong. You will not likely find these folks in the place of prayer, nor can you expect their efforts in reaching sinners with the Gospel, nor will you discover that they have any serious or strict views of spiritual obligations. They will persist in pandering their false notions.

2 Tim. 3:13-15, But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. [14] But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; [15] And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 

So, we have a clear command to obey regarding the discipline of Bible study, duties of study and Bible application to execute as we serve others, and we need the ability to identify and shun false teachers and their lies. Exposing ourselves to God’s Word regularly and diligently will enable us to handle it more precisely. Why not become a student starting today?

Why Study The Word?

The motivations for personal Bible study are God’s commands, spiritual strength for personal transformation, and preparation for Christian service.

An accepted axiom of Christianity states, “What a believer does is important. Equally significant are the reasons or motives behind their actions.” God desires for His people to engage in wholesome activities for reasons that are pleasing to Him. And of course anything that is pleasing to God is also good for the child of God. Then the question we must ponder at this point is, “Why study the Bible?” Why should a Christian invest the time and energy into the discipline of studying God’s Word? Isn’t reading the Bible good enough to satisfy our needs? Please consider these Bible-based prescriptions:

God Requires the Study of His Word

While it is true that Bible reading is quite beneficial, but substantial growth in grace and knowledge will certainly require study. Actually studying the Word is mandated by the Lord Himself. The Apostle Paul said in 2 Timothy 2:15, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” Forthrightly this passage commands believers to study the Scriptures. The word “study” means “to be diligent, earnest, or eager." The idea is for us to make every effort to do our best. Christians should pull out all the stops to ensure we handle God’s truth accurately for personal development and effective ministry to others. Certainly the Lord Jesus deserves our very best efforts when we undertake for Him. This requires study on our part. J. Vernon McGee said,

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God.” You are to study, eager to do your utmost, to present yourself approved unto God. The workman here is evidently a teacher, which means he is to be a diligent student of the Word of God. –McGee, J. Vernon: Thru the Bible Commentary

There is everything right with seeking to please God through a diligent Bible study life. Again this pleasing to the Lord. What genuine Christ-centered believer does not yearn to please the Lord who saved us from our sins? We are to work at this, and keep it as a high priority in our lives. A rich and deep personal study of the Word twice during the week would yield incredible insight into the Lord God, the Christian Faith, and spiritual development. Wiersbe insightfully added,

The emphasis in this paragraph is that the workman needs to be diligent in his labors so that he will not be ashamed when his work is inspected. “Rightly dividing” means “cutting straight” and can be applied to many different tasks: plowing a straight furrow, cutting a straight board, sewing a straight seam.— Wiersbe, Warren: The Bible Exposition Commentary

God expects each of His children to develop the discipline of studying His Word on a regular basis. The Lord Jesus challenged His Jewish contemporaries to “search the Scriptures” (Jn. 5:39). Let us take this great advice to heart as well.  Paul advised, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another ….” (Colossians 3:16). Clearly obedience to these passages requires study, meditation, and reflection on the Word as a habit. These statements contain good advice for us all. This NT imperative is applicable to every believer since we all should be capable of effectively communicating God’s truth to saints and sinners (1Pet. 3:15). Ultimately we are mindful of the reality that such diligence pleases the Lord and satisfies His requirements.  

Spiritual Strength for Transformed Living

Another reason for studying the Word is learning the Bible will make us stronger Christians (1Jn. 2:14). Just as natural food strengthens the body for daily life, God’s spiritual food fortifies the inner man in Christ for godly living. God wants us to be reinforced internally by the Word remaining constantly in us as a controlling influence. We need strength through the trials, temptations, and spiritual battles we will face as Christians.  God desires for us to wage warfare in the power of His might (Eph. 6:10-20).

Power from God is essential to spiritual development. Bible study significantly impacts our personal growth in Christ. Though this was briefly implied, many passages highlight individual enlargement as a worthy motive.

Acknowledging this encourages us tremendously in this challenging but personally rewarding endeavor. Consider these strengthening motivations for studying God’s Word. Bible Study will:

•         give assurance of Salvation (1Jn. 5:13)

•         give confidence and power in prayer (1Jn. 5:14, 15; Jn. 5:17)

•         cleanse the heart of sin (Jn. 15:3; 17:17; 1Jn. 1:9)

•         give guidance for decision making (Ps. 119:105)

•         identify and reinforce spiritual and moral values (Isa. 5:20; Matt. 6:19, 20, 33; Acts 5:29)

•         increase your knowledge of God, His ways, will, and potentially enter into greater intimacy with Him (2Pet. 1:2-4; 3:18)

•         stimulate spiritual growth and Christlike formation (2Cor. 3:17-18; 1Pet. 2:2, 3)

•         equip you to study the Bible for yourself

•         provide everything you need to know about life from God’s perspective

•         strengthen your faith against temptations in your daily walk (1Cor. 10:11-13)

Study and adherence to God's truth will sanctify and transform our values, priorities, desires, decisions, and plans.

Preparation for Service to Christ

In addition to God’s command and an increase in spiritual strength, studying the Bible will mature us and prepare us for a life of service to others. Notice what else Paul said to Timothy in 2 Timothy 3:16-17, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: ¹⁷ That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”

You see, Bible study will transform our life and equip us for service to Christ! Because the Scriptures are inspired and infallible, they are entirely authoritative for our faith, lives, and ministries.  Wiersbe observed,

Earlier Paul had called Timothy a “man of God” (1 Tim. 6:11); but here Paul states that any Christian can become a person “of God.” How? By studying the Word of God, obeying it, and letting it control his life. It is worth noting that all of the “men of God” named in Scripture—including Moses, Samuel, Elijah, Elisha, David, and Timothy—were men who were devoted to God’s Word.

The purpose of Bible study is not just to understand doctrines or to be able to defend the faith, as important as these things are. The ultimate purpose is the equipping of the believers who read it. It is the Word of God that equips God’s people to do the work of God. –Wiersbe, Warren W.: The Bible Exposition Commentary

Two words in 2 Timothy 3:17, are especially important: “perfect” and “furnished.” The word translated “perfect” means “complete, in fit shape, in fit condition.” It does not suggest sinless perfection. Rather, it implies being fitted for use.

“Furnished” has a similar meaning: “equipped for service.” In other words, the Word of God furnishes and equips a believer so that he can live a life that pleases God and do the work God would be pleased with. The better we know the Word, the better we are able to live and work for God.

There are many other healthy motives for studying God’s Word. None of which includes a place for pride, arrogance, becoming a ‘know-it-all,’ arguing and fighting with other believers, or a desire for distinction as a scholar. God never condones such carnal ambitions.

So, why should we study the Bible? Because God has commanded us to study it, it affords us spiritual strength to live for God and win the battles over sin and temptations, and it will mature us and prepare us for ministry in Christ’s name so that we significantly impact others for Christ’s glory. Through students of the Scriptures God has disciples capable of leading others to faith in Christ, developing authentic followers of our Lord, and furnishing the work of His churches with deeply spiritual and skilled servants. Many students of the Bible could personally testify to these claims.

What about you? Are you obeying our Lord's requirement to study? Are you developing in the Lord according to the image and stature of Christ Jesus? Are you engaged and capable of executing meaningful ministry through our Lord's church? If the answer is no to any of these questions, then you have reasons to schedule and follow through on a commitment to regular personal Bible study.

Thinking Biblically & Hearing From God

Will God’s plan for me simply pop into my head someday or should I actually do something to obtain His guidance? Can I simply pray asking for wisdom from God, or do I have other responsibilities that I must satisfy to obtain wisdom from God? These are good questions! Some teachers say that all we need to do is ask and God will give us wisdom in generous measures (James 1). Other teachers tell us that we must research the Bible with a commitment to act on the wisdom God gives—through diligent study of the Bible we gain wisdom. The first prescription requires little of the believer while the second depends almost entirely on the believer’s efforts. Which way is correct? Before I answer the question consider this passage:

A good man sheweth favour, and lendeth: He will guide his affairs with discretion. (Ps. 112:5)

Personal generosity is healthy and good, but it should be exercised with a fair amount of discretion. That is, we must be discreet, responsible and restrained exemplifying sound judgement and prudent management. Discretion is generally the ability to make sound decisions. We are challenged to “guide” our “affairs with discretion.” Thoughtfulness, planning, measurement, and care are to be exercised as we address matters of personal and commercial business.  

Furthermore, discretion involves carefulness, maturity, prudence, and good judgment in spiritual decision making as well (Ps. 112:5). It is the ability to use God-given discernment while making decisions pertaining to routine and peculiar matters. Such capability can be learned by the people of God. Yes, sound decision making that fulfills God’s plan for our lives can be learned through the Word, the Holy Spirit, prayer, and disciplined decision making. Understand, this quality must be cultivated, developed, and intentionally pursued. Each believer should make a conscious choice to cultivate spiritual discretion.

The answer to our original questions is “both.”  Yes, we are to pray earnestly to God for wisdom, but we must also cultivate the development of spiritual thinking for the sake of making decisions consistent with God’s Word and will. Yes, we can hear from God through thinking biblically, and God imparts wisdom when we ask and as we study the Word. 

Theme: as responsible believers, God expects us to actively cultivate discretion related to His will

GOD’S WORD ASSURES US SPIRITUAL DISCRETION CAN BE CULTIVATED.

The Bible repeatedly makes this claim and assures us that each child of God’s life can be an exercise of discretion.  God uses His Word to develop within us discernment—a sense of right and wrong, good and bad. The Spirit helps us distinguish between character and image, and substance and vanity.  God helps us realize what ‘right’ looks like so that we can recognize the right from the wrong, and decide between good, better, and best in a given situation.

In order to lead a life that reflects God’s wisdom and discretion, and to limit our susceptibility to misconceptions we must cultivate spiritual discernment.

Phil 1:9-11, And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; [moral discernment in ethical matters]10, That ye may approve [recognize as genuine through examination—appraisal] things that are excellent [better, or of greater value]; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; 11, Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.

In effective service for the Lord, we must use our intelligence and exercise discernment. Otherwise, our efforts are apt to be futile. So Paul is here praying not only that the Philippians will continue in the display of Christian love, but also that their love will be exercised in full knowledge and all discernment.

Love that is thus enlightened will enable them to discern the things that are more excellent. In all realms of life, some things are good and others are better. The good is often the enemy of the best. For effective service, these distinctions must be made.

Love that is enlightened will also enable them to avoid what is questionable or downright wrong. Paul would have them sincere, ⁴ that is, utterly transparent, and blameless in view of the day of Christ. –Believer’s Bible Commentary

Think Session:

Moral Discernment Exercise: What if someone who is truly saved and genuinely loves the Lord desires to unite with the church, but they are HIV positive and have openly communicated this fact? Should this be a condition for excluding from membership? Would it be morally wrong to pry into his or her past? Do we feel a moral obligation to inquire about how they contracted the disease?

Appraisal Discernment Exercise: I know that it is time to purchase another automobile for my family of six. What should I buy? How much does my budget allow? What would actually meet our needs?  Consider that it is good to buy a reliable vehicle that satisfies our needs—everyone in the family fits safely and it gets us from point A to B. It is better to buy a pre-owned (minimal depreciation) one that fits our budget—we can actually afford the car note, insurance, and maintenance. It is best to purchase a car in cash or with a huge down payment; a car that can be readily serviced here in the area.

GOD’S WORD SPELLS OUT HIS WILL FOR US IN SPECIFIC MANDATES.

Our tendency to misread God’s plan can be significantly reduced by “understanding what the will of the Lord is” (Eph. 5:17). God’s will can be known and understood by us!  Eph. 5:17,  says, “Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding [connect concepts together in the mind] what the will of the Lord is.” Understanding is like collecting the pieces of a puzzle and putting them together. The mind grasps concepts and sees the proper relationship between them. This requires serious thinking on our part—exercise your mental muscles.

“Understanding” implies placing precept together with practice as well. That is to mentally comprehend in order to govern ourselves according to God’s pleasure and will. This largely reduces misunderstandings, misconceptions, misapplications, and general misreading of God’s will! Again this demands discipline and exertion of mental energy. 

God’s Plan for our lives is not hidden, incomprehensible, nor mysterious. In fact God desires for His people to be well informed and actuating His will daily. But it may require engaging all our mental powers to arrive at what the Lord wants to achieve through us.

To guard against misconceptions related to God’s will, gain a practical awareness of specific Bible statements related to God’s will and their Implications.

Colossians 1:9-10, For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; ¹⁰ That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;

Note This Prayer for the Knowledge of God’s Will (Col. 1:9).

Paul’s primary request was that God would fill them with the knowledge of His will. There are two key words, “filled” and “knowledge” to consider. “Filled” refers to a filling out to completeness, and “knowledge” suggests a full, deep understanding. This is not an inner impression or feeling, but a deep and thorough knowledge of the will of God that is finally and completely revealed in the Word of God (Col. 3:16; Eph. 5:17; 1 Thess. 4:3; 5:18; 1 Tim. 2:4; 1 Pet. 2:13, 15; 4:19).

·        Such knowledge of God’s will does not come from a fleshly mind (which “puffs up,” 1 Cor. 8:1), but the Holy Spirit enlightens a believer’s inner person (1 Cor. 2:5-6, 13), with the Word of God.

·        “Wisdom” is, practical know-how which comes from God (James 1:5; 3:15), and it is also the ability to accumulate and organize principles from Scripture. Wisdom applies knowledge in the best way.

·        “Spiritual Understanding” speaks of clear analysis and decision-making in applying spiritual knowledge to various problems—the application of Bible principles to daily living. Understanding sees what agrees and what conflicts with God’s will. God’s will, revealed in the Bible, is made known to believers by the Holy Spirit’s teaching ministry.

Note This Purpose for the Knowledge of God’s Will (Col. 1:10).

Why did the Apostle Paul want the Colossians to be filled with the knowledge of God’s will? [1:10] Was it so they might become mighty preachers or sensational teachers? Was it so they might attract large followings to themselves, as the Gnostics sought to do?

·        No, the true purpose of spiritual wisdom and understanding is to enable Christians to walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him. Here we have a very important lesson on the subject of guidance. God does not reveal His will to us in order to satisfy our curiosity. Neither is it intended to cater to our ambition or pride. Rather the Lord shows us His will for our lives in order that we might please Him in all that we do. –Believer’s Bible Commentary

Exercise:

What does the Bible say about God’s will for us?

1.     God Wills that We Be Saved (2Pet. 3:9; 1Tim. 2:4).

2.     God Wills that We Be Spirit-Filled (Eph. 5:15-18).

3.     God Wills that We Be Thankful in Everything (1Thess. 5:18).

4.     God Wills that We are set apart from sin and unto His purposes (1Thess. 4:3-5).

5.     God Wills that We Be Submissive to Legitimate Authority (1Pet. 2:13-15).

6.     God Wills that We Suffer for Christ’s Sake (1Pet. 4:12-16, 19).

7.     God Wills that We Glorify Him with all our Opportunities (1Pet. 4:16; 1Cor. 6:20; 10:31).

The Lord Jesus epitomized all of these mandates and is the supreme example for all aspects of God’s will (see John 4:4; 5:19, 30; 1 Pet. 4:1, 2). Honestly if we truly lived this way in the energy of the Holy Spirit, there would be little else to consider or to decide upon with regard to God’s plan. Also bear in mind that God does afford us a measure of latitude and freedom in decision making. There are times and instances when He in His sovereignty literally leaves the choice with us.

Conclusion:

Eph 5:15, See then that ye walk circumspectly [exactly, precisely, diligently, accurately], not as fools, but as wise,   (Also Col. 4:5)

Walk or proceed with clear direction from God. Live each day knowing exactly what God expects and with confidence in the type of life He prescribes. Once you know what He requires, proceed with precise adherence and compliance. Walk circumspectly before your Lord. Much like a person walking a tight rope across the Grand Canyon proceeds with preciseness and accuracy; let us walk with exactitude in the plan of God for us. Again He has disclosed His will in His Word there is no reasoned to be mystified regarding His plan.

Yes, there will still be times when we need to make a decision and we will feel uncertain about how to proceed. This is no indication that God has failed to direct. It may mean we need to dig some in the Word and pray far more for wisdom from God. It may also mean we need to connect spiritual principles one with another like the pieces of a puzzle in order to discern God’s plan in a particular matter. I am afraid God has been blamed far too often for hiding His will when the key to knowing it is a matter of research on our part.

The Lord never intended for His will to be mysterious or confusing. He does not hide it and taunt us as we try to find it or figure it out. God’s will is not hidden nor is it lost! Through the Word, the ministry of the Holy Spirit, and prayer we can understand exactly what God’s will is and make decisions in the light of it. In doing so, we limit and reduce our vulnerability to deceptions related to His plan for our lives. God not only want us to know His will but to execute it daily with precision and accuracy to His glory!

Five Keys to Handling God's Word

Five Keys to Handling God’s Word With Godly Competence

When we undertake to represent the Most High God and speak His eternal truth into the lives of others, we must demonstrate a certain level of competence to be taken seriously. Rest assured a Master of Divinity is not required to communicate God's truth more effectively! There are; however, some important measures we all must take to ensure God's message is transferred to others with the designs God intended. Though this article is not comprehensive, it does afford foundational instructions and principles that are always applicable to Christian servants desiring to handle the Bible faithfully.

• ·      Value It—appreciate and love God’s Word above all things knowing it is true and supremely beneficial to us as we adhere to its instructions. Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold. 128, Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way. 129, Thy testimonies are wonderful: therefore doth my soul keep them. 130, The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple. (Ps. 119:127-130)
• ·      Study It—train in the Word with great interest to please God, and to share it most effectively with others. Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Tim. 2:15)
• ·      Think It—contemplate deeply upon the Word to mature and explore new territory in Christ, to obey/practice clearly established Bible teachings, and to protect ourselves and our people from errors. Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. 16, Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee. (1 Tim. 4:15-16)
• ·      Use It—gently and patiently teach and instruct the wayward and stumbling the Word hoping for their repentance and eventual liberation from satanic lies. And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, 25, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; 26, And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. (2 Tim. 2:24-26)
• ·      Trust It—know and trust the discerning and penetrating power of the Word to reveal, expose, and evaluate our motives and desires. For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Heb. 4:12)

Any genuine Christian who takes these pointers seriously will excel in their ability to communicate Christ’s precious truth to others with competence. Because we do not believe anything is good enough for Jesus, we take pains to ensure our very best efforts are rendered in His service. Christ deserves our utmost! May our ministry of the Word always honor Him!