

Is it possible to be Christian and not study the Bible? Some say no, others say yes. I say why wouldn't we? During Jesus' time on earth, He studied the Scriptures. He used them, and shared them. If we call ourselves Christians, wouldn't it seem fitting that we follow His lead?
Sure, we can be saved by putting our trust in Jesus Christ, we can get by with the basic tenants of Faith in Christ. The problem with this is that we remain a babe in Christ and we lack the knowledge and tools we need to live the Christian life. More than this, we rob ourselves of such wisdom and beauty that comes from knowing God in a deeper and more intimate way. Not to mention the incredible events recorded for our learning, which build our faith, and strengthen our foundation. The more we study, the bigger God becomes in our hearts and minds!
How awesome it is to see pieces of this grand puzzle called life come together as we see the amazing connection between all of God's word.
For example - I am following a new study called, "Jesus = God?" Found here on World-Wide Bible Studies. Going through part 2, brought several Scriptures to mind, which led to other Scriptures, and so on. These of course led to me sharing these thoughts with you:
Scripture reinforced with other Scripture
"And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen by angels, preached among the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up in glory" 1 Timothy 3:16
Reading this passage of Scripture reinforced in my mind the words of Hebrews 4:12-13
"For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit and joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account."
Why the connection? Because each time I read Tim 3:16, I see something different - deeper.
Although I know all these things individually, this time around, I see the full gospel story shared in one passage. I was able to connect other passages that confirm what Paul was saying to Timothy.
"God was manifested in the flesh, justified in the Spirit"
Matthew 3:16 - 17; John 1:1-14; John 1:32-33
"Seen by angels, preached among the Gentiles"
Luke 2:11-14; Romans 10:18
"Believed on in the world"
Colossians :1:6,23; Acts 2:42-47
"Received up in Glory"
Luke 24:51; Acts 1:9-11
This is one little example of how this happens each time I study the Bible. How true it is that the word of God is alive and well - never boring.
So why study the Bible? So that we will be as Jesus wants us to be:
"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." Romans 1:2
Read the correspnding Scriptures given - what comes to your mind? Share your thoughts. Together, let's grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Never studied the Bible? Today is a great day to start.
(C) Teresa Ortiz - 2010
» left by Lance Ponder(62) (2 years 94 days ago.)
Amen and Amen! This is just the sort of thing that happens to me when I get to studying in the word with fervent excitement. The more I study the more the Lord reveals Himself and the glory of his creation - scripture - for our benefit. We are blessed beyond measure or imagination. Nothing in the mind of man can comprehend the greatness that is our Lord.Respond to this comment
» left by Anonymous (2 years 93 days ago.)
So true. Teaching the John study to a group of new believers has taken me to new levels and new thoughts. If we approach the word of God with a humble heart, leaning fully on the Holy Spirit, then each time is like the first time.
We can't even imagine how much more we will know when we pass through this life! I pray hearts are stirred and that those believers who have stopped hungering for the word of God, would be turned back to what really matters.
May God use us and our little community in big ways!
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» left by Bart(17) (2 years 93 days ago.)
Hi Teresa! Isn't reading and studying the Word of God great and exciting? What amazes me is that I could be reading a Scripture for the umpteen time, and there the Holy Spirit shows me something I've never seen before. It's such a blessing. How true your comment that the Word of God is alive. I feel that every believer should have pen and paper with them each time they open the Word to be ready to receive exciting things from the Lord. Thanks for writing this; it's an encouragement to keep on keeping on.Respond to this comment
» left by Anonymous (2 years 93 days ago.)
Hi Bart! So good to hear from you! How are you?
Thank you for your input and encouraging words! Pen and paper is a must! Ready to hear, ready to receive!
Blessings to you! Teresa
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» left by Marijo Phelps(135)(2 years 93 days ago.)
Who wants to stay in diapers all their life? Great piece T! Good challenge for us all to spend time in the Love Letter he write to us - it is alive and jumps out and meets us where we are and definitely fits whatever occasion we are at in our lives.Respond to this comment
» left by Anonymous (2 years 93 days ago.)
lol! great analogy Marijo! Not me - it gets stinky!! Isn't it amazing how he gives us what we need when we need it - and from different perspectives and levels. This is why I love listening and studying with several different teachers beside my own study and my home church - there is so much to learn and lots of growing to do! Hugs, Tonight I will check out your blog!
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» left by Ken McCreless from Event Horizon (1 year 285 days ago.)We appreciate your comments!
Hi SIs,Wonderful work here. The Bible is such a strong source OF strength and growth, as you said- an anchor in the truest sense!Respond to this comment