This study is absolutely foundational. Anyone who truly accepts it has an excellent chance of becoming a Christian. Aim: to establish confidence in the Bible as the perfect and authoritative Word of God, and to create an obedient spirit.

Hebrews.4:12,13- Relevant (living)-and active (dynamic

•  1 Tim 4:16
• 2 Tim 3:16-17
• John 12:47-48
• Acts 17;10-11

Hebrews 4:12-13—The Word penetrates like a sword. Studying the Word is penetrating; like the penetration of any sharp instrument. This means that at times it may “hurt.” Don’t shy away from the challenges.

• 1 Timothy 4:16—Life and doctrine are important. Ask, “Why have people come up with so many interpretations?” Consider some of the reasons:
• Ignorance of the word—Matthew 22:29, Hosea 4:6. Personality cults-1 Corinthians 1:12, Acts 20:30
• Twisting scriptures-2 Peter 3:16, Genesis 3:1
• Personal convenience-2 Timothy 4:3, Isaiah 30:10-11
• Traditions of men—Mark 7:6-9, Colossians 2:8
• Additions to the word—Proverbs 30:6, Revelation 22:18
• Unwillingness to obey—John 8:31-32, John 7:17

Then ask whose fault it is that there are so many differing interpretations—God’s or man’s? The word of God can be understood, and agreement can certainly be reached on the fundamentals of the faith.

2 Timothy 3:16-17—The Word is both inspired and useful.’ The following acronym provides even more reasons on why men have departed from the Word and exited the narrow road:  Easy way  (2 Timothy 4:2-3, Isaiah 30:10-11, John 8:31-32),  extra teachings  (Proverbs 30:6, Deuteronomy 4:2, 12:32, 1 Corinthians 4:6, Revelation 22:18-19), Ignorance (Matthew 22:29, Hosea 4:6, Isaiah 1:2, 2 Timothy 2:15), Traditions (Matthew 15:6-9, Mark 7:6-9).

John 12:48 – remember taking exams? What if the examiner handed out the test early for all the candidates to study? Would you read it? Would there be any excuse for failure? Emphasize God’s generosity and fairness in revealing the standard for judgment.

Acts 17:1  For those approaching the Bible for the first time. The Bereans ere eager to learn, and they trusted the scriptures, not just Paul. D you have such a noble character? Challenges:

ead every day (suggest what to read: the gospel of John, for example). Do so  Enthusiastically.

Ask questions; don’t just believe what anybody tells you! (Healthy skepticism.)

Conclusion:

Study that Bible Daily. Make the scriptures your foundation.

2 Timothy 2:15— Extra passage. For those already studying the Bible and excited about it. Are you lazy in your Bible study? God says, “Do your best!” God wants skilled, reliable workmen. Time to step up your Bible study!