Studying God’s word is an essential part of the Christian life. 2 Timothy 2:15 says, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.” This verse encourages us to diligently study the Bible so that we can understand it accurately and live it out faithfully. Here are some key principles for studying the Bible to show yourself approved:
Read the Bible Regularly
We cannot get to know God’s word if we do not spend consistent time reading it. Having a plan to read through the Bible systematically is helpful. Many believers aim to read through the entire Bible in a year by following a Bible reading plan. This enables you to get the full sweep of Scripture and understand how it fits together. Set aside time each day to read God’s word, whether a little or a lot. The goal is to make Bible reading a habit and delight.
Study Whole Books of the Bible
In addition to reading through the entire Bible, it is also helpful to study individual books more in-depth. Read through an entire book of the Bible in one sitting to understand the overall message and purpose of the book. Then go back and study chapters, passages, or verses more closely using observation, interpretation, correlation, and application. Studying whole books gives you a better grasp of the context and meaning of specific passages.
Meditate and Memorize Scripture
Meditating on God’s word means thinking deeply about a passage, reflecting on its meaning, and considering how to apply it personally. Memorizing verses and passages helps God’s word sink into our hearts and minds, so we can recall it when needed. Meditation and memorization go hand in hand. Choose key verses to commit to memory and reflect on regularly.
Learn from Teachers and Pastors
While personal Bible study is essential, we can gain deeper insight by learning from others as well. Listen to sermons and teachings from pastors and teachers who have studied God’s word extensively. Their knowledge can help us better interpret and apply Scripture. Discuss the Bible in a small group Bible study to gain other perspectives. Use study Bibles and commentaries as additional learning tools.
Put Scripture into Practice
The goal of Bible study is not just to gain information but to grow spiritually. As James 1:22 (ESV) says, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” Pray for wisdom in applying what you study. Let God’s word transform your mind, desires, speech, actions, and relationships. Studying diligently is useless if we do not apply Scripture to our lives. The blessing comes in obeying God’s commands.
Study with Faith and Obedience
Ultimately, we must approach Bible study with a heart of faith, love, and obedience. Ask God to speak to you through his word and open your heart and mind to what he wants to teach you. Set aside your own assumptions and desires. Instead, humbly yield yourself to God’s revelation with a willingness to trust and obey. When we study eagerly and submit fully, we will find ourselves approved workmen in God’s sight.
Studying Specific Subjects and Topics
In addition to reading, meditating, and memorizing large portions of Scripture, studying specific Bible subjects and topics in-depth is also beneficial. Here are some tips for topical study:
- Use a concordance or search online to find all verses related to your topic
- Look up key words in original languages for fuller meaning
- Read passages in full context to understand intent
- Consult bible dictionaries and commentaries for historical insights
- Compare translations and parallel passages for clarity
- Outline what each verse/passage contributes to the overall picture
- Consider the development of the topic across biblical history
- Apply what you learn verse-by-verse to your life and thinking
Some topics to consider studying in-depth include salvation, grace, worship, evangelism, forgiveness, servitude, holiness, love, the Holy Spirit, the attributes of God, prophecy, and end times. The possibilities are endless!
Interpret Scripture Accurately
As we study the Bible, we must be careful to handle God’s word accurately so we arrive at the correct meaning and application. Here are some principles for good Bible interpretation:
- Pray for wisdom and discernment from the Holy Spirit
- Consider the historical, cultural, and grammatical context
- Look for the plain, literal meaning first
- Examine the passage in its broader context
- Compare translations and consult commentaries
- Distinguish between prescriptive and descriptive passages
- Let scripture interpret scripture
- Watch for hyperbole, metaphor, and other figures of speech
- Consider the human author’s intent and God’s full intent
Accurate interpretation takes diligence, but it helps us rightly understand God’s word and avoids faulty application.
Study with Prayer and Dependence on the Holy Spirit
Ultimately, correct understanding comes from the illumination of the Holy Spirit, who inspired Scripture. Pray for the Spirit’s guidance each time you open God’s word. The truths of the Bible are spiritually discerned, so we need the Spirit to open our heart and mind. Ask God to develop in you the attitude described in Psalm 119:18 (ESV): “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.” Submit your study to God in prayer.
Additional Tips for Fruitful Bible Study
- Have a plan, but stay flexible to follow where God leads
- Study with a teachable spirit
- Invest in resources like study Bibles, commentaries, and Bible dictionaries
- Take notes and review regularly to retain what you learn
- Apply one truth at a time rather than get overwhelmed
- Learn the historical and cultural background
- Strive for transformation, not just information
- Study patiently and perseveringly
- Share your insights humbly with others
- Review and repeat key truths often
The Rewards of Diligent Study
Studying to show ourselves approved takes commitment, but the rewards are great. As we devote ourselves to knowing God through his word, we will:
- Gain wisdom for godly living (Psalm 119:97-100)
- Experience joy and delight (Jeremiah 15:16)
- Receive power to avoid sin (Psalm 119:11)
- Have truth to combat deception (Ephesians 6:17)
- See Christ more clearly (John 5:39)
- Abide more fully in God’s love (John 15:10)
- Be equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
There is no greater privilege than encountering the living God through studying his eternal Word. As we give ourselves fully to knowing and obeying the Bible, we can stand approved when we meet Jesus face to face.