Attitudes in Bible Study The Christian and Bible Study (2) Attitudes in Bible Study

The Bible – the Word of God The Bible is how God communicates to us. It is imperative that we properly understand His word – both what it is and in attitude. Today we will discuss some improper and proper attitudes that we need to “rightly divide the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15)

Improper attitudes God’s word can be misused – much of it begins with improper attitudes 2 Peter 3:15-16 Matthew 22:29 Matthew 15:3-9

Improper attitudes To find “proof texts” Some approach scripture with prejudice – preconceived beliefs and no intention of changing. Some will search scripture to prove their beliefs true – often they manipulate passages

Improper attitudes To find “proof texts” Jesus dealt with such attitudes – when He said they were wrong they called Him names, misrepresented His teachings, mocked Him, etc. Some today approach scripture this way Homosexuality Rejecting baptism Acts 2:38, 1 Peter 3:20-21 Brethren are not immune – MDR, proper worship, leadership questions, etc.

Improper attitudes To find contradictions or oddities Critics of scripture will look for contradictions. Others look for trivia – shortest verse, longest verse, center of Bible, etc. Such demonstrates a lack of interest in the true meaning of scripture

Improper attitudes To impress others Some study to “show off” about their knowledge. Some may seek to “stump the preacher” Difficult texts, etc. They become obsessed with “endless genealogies, use wranglings, striving about words, etc. 1 Tim. 1:3, 6:20-21, 2 Tim. 2:14, etc. Matthew 23:6-7, 6:7 2 Timothy 2:15, Study to present YOURSELF approved

Improper attitudes Thinking you cannot understand the Bible without help “Clergy-Laity”, Holy Spirit guidance, “ordained ministers”, etc. Rely upon them without investigation – Acts 17:11 The Bible was written for the common person. Ephesians 5:17 1 Corinthians 1:18

Improper attitudes To find “sound bites” Some seek passages to quote in various situations – i.e. political leaders, special occasions, etc. Example, “Judge not, that you be not judged” – used to promote unity in diversity - Matthew 7:1 One preacher quoted John 19:30, “It is finished” at a building dedication

Proper attitudes With faith We must believe that what we have is the word of God and its teachings are true Without this attitude, we will not take scripture seriously! Far too many reject the Bible today - cf. Romans 9:32-33 2 Peter 1:3, Believe that it contains “all things that pertain to life and godliness.”

Proper attitudes With reverence When we view it as the word of God, we render due respect as we study it. Holy Scriptures 2 Tim. 3:15 1 Thessalonians 2:13, received as the word of God My concern with loose translations – they fail to give due reverence to the word of God.

Proper attitudes Intending to obey Knowledge without a desire to obey is inadequate! Matthew 28:19-20 Luke 6:46 John 7:16-17 James 1:25

Proper attitudes With an open mind and love for truth Willing to consider what it teaches, even if it means I have to change Jesus was rejected by closed minds, Matthew 13:14-15 Stephen was stoned because of close minds – Acts 7:57-58 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12 – God will allow you to be deceived if you do not love the truth John 3:19-21, love light

Proper attitudes A desire to learn We need to WANT to know His will! Hungering and thirsting to be righteous - Matthew 5:6 2 Timothy 2:15, “Be diligent…” Psalm 1:2, meditate on it day and night 2 Cor. 5:10, Rom. 14:10 we are dealing with matters of judgment and eternity Digesting meat – Hebrews 5:12-14

Proper attitudes Expect to understand it We must believe that devoting time to learning His word will be beneficial 2 Tim. 3:16, 17 - profitable

How is your attitude toward His word?