JUN 13

Acts 17:11
Memorise Hebrews 5:13-14
“Search the scriptures…”

HOW MUCH IMPORTANCE DO WE PUT IN BIBLE STUDY? (II)

Yesterday, we learnt about the importance of studying God’s Word. In today’s reading, we see a practical example of a group of people who were indeed serious and earnest in their study of God’s Word.

The Christians in the church at Berea approached the Word of God with great excitement. First of all, we see that they “received the word with all readiness of mind”. Their hearts were prepared to receive the Word. Unlike many of us today, they did not drag their feet, nor were their minds preoccupied with worldly cares or vain thoughts. They came joyfully, eagerly, with hearts that were well prepared and focused on the things of God. The “readiness of mind” here can also refer to an attitude of humble submission, of being ready to apply the Word into their lives, and of being willing to be not just hearers of the Word, but doers also.

Next, we see that they “searched the scriptures daily”. Their diligence in studying the Word of God is truly an inspiration to us. They did not merely ‘read’ the scriptures, or ‘browse’ or ‘flip through’ the scriptures – rather, they ‘searched’ it, as one would search for something truly precious and of great value. And this they did on a daily basis – not just once a week or once in a while, but daily! The purpose of their repeated and continuous searching was to determine “whether those things were so”. They did not simply take what they heard of the preaching of God’s Word at face value. Rather, they would always go back to the Bible as the ultimate authority of their faith, and not the words of man. Without a proper understanding of the Word of God, how easily our undiscerning minds would be swayed by false doctrines and vain preaching!

Dear teen, are you a “Berean Christian” too? Truly how important it is that we take the study of the Bible seriously, for it is only through a regular study of God’s Word that we can truly grow and progress in our faith and knowledge. We need much diligence in doing it on a consistent basis, and we also need much discernment in order to have a correct understanding of God’s Word. May you persevere in your study of the Bible, and place it as a priority in your life.

Thought: Diligence and discernment are key ingredients in Bible study.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be a good student of Your Word.