Why is it Important to Study the Bible?
God Commands it.

Joshua 1:8
This Book of Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.

II Timothy 2:15
Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing the Word of truth.



Framework for Living
Romans 12:2
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, so that you may prove what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect.

II Timothy 3:16-27
Every Scripture is God-breathed (given by His inspiration) and profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and discipline in obedience, for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God's will in thought, purpose and action), So that the man of God may be complete and proficient, well fitted and thoroughly equipped for ever good work.



Why is it Important to Study the Bible?
It Transforms Our Behavior

I Timothy 3:8
For physical training is of some value, but godliness (spiritual training) is useful and of value in everything and in every way, for it holds promise for the present life and also for the life, which is to come.

Colossians 3:16
Let the word have its home and dwell in you in richness, as you teach and admonish and train one another in all insight and Intelligence and wisdom, psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, making melody to God with grace in your hearts

Philippians 4:7-8
And God's peace which transcends all understanding shall guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. For the rest, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is lovely and loveable, whatever is kind and winsome and gracious, if there is any virtue and excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think on and weigh and take account of these things.



Spiritual Maturity
Hebrews 6:13-24
For everyone who continues to feed on milk is obviously inexperienced and unskilled in the doctrine of righteousness (of conformity to the divine will in purpose, thought, and action), for he is a mere infant! But solid food is for full-grown men, for those whose senses and mental faculties are trained by practice to discriminate and distinguish between what is morally good and noble and what is evil and contrary either to divine or human law.



Excuses for not Studying the Bible
Psalm 119:16 & Mac 221
"It's boring." I will delight myself in Your statutes; I will not forget your word. ; "I don't understand it." Your righteous testimonies are everlasting and Your decrees are binding to eternity; give me understanding and I shall live.

Psalm 119:144
For everyone who keeps on asking receives; and he who keeps on seeking finds; and to him who keeps on knocking, [the door] will be opened.

Matthew 7:8 & Mac221;
"I don't have the time."



How Can You Study the Bible?
Find a Bible You Understand

Psalms 23:1-2
King James Version The Lord is my Shepherd I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures. He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul.

The New International Version The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul.

The Amplified The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, guide, and shield me], I shall not lack. He makes me lie down in [fresh, tender] green pastures; He lead me beside the still and restful waters. He refreshes and restores my life (my self);

The Living Because the Lord is my shepherd, I have everything I need! He lets me rest in the meadow grass and Leads me beside the quiet streams. He gives me new strength. He helps me do what honors him the most.



How Can You Study the Bible?
Get a Reading Plan

The One Year Bible Old Testament Reading, New Testament Reading, Psalm, Proverb &Mac221; Topical Study Grace, Love, Mercy, Obedience, Righteousness &Mac221; Daily Devotionals Our Daily Bread, Solomon's Porch E-Devotional



Use Reference Materials
Bible Commentary's Holman's Concise Bible Commentary, Matthew Henry's Commentary Matthew Henry's Commentary &Mac221; "Study Buddy" &Mac221; Tape Ministries



Get Involved in a Bible Study
Village Schools of the Bible One Year Course in depth study of the Bible &Mac221; Community Bible Study Fall 2001 - Solomon's Porch



Why I Study the Bible?
Obedience Unto God

II Timothy 4:8
[As to what remains] henceforth there is laid up for me the [victor's] crown of righteousness [for being right with God and doing right], which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me and recompense me on that [great] day - and not to me only, but also to those who have loved and yearned for and welcomed His appearing (His return).



Framework for Living
Foundation for Making Daily Decisions

Ephesians 4:34
And be constantly renewed in the spirit of your mind [having a fresh mental and spiritual attitude],



Transforms Our Behavior
Conforms Me into His Image

Matthew 28:19-20
Go then and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Teaching them to observe everything that I have commanded you, and behold, I am with you all the days to the close and consummation of the age.



Spiritual Maturity
Spiritual Development for Kingdom Building

James 1:22
But be doers of the Word, and not merely listeners to it.