Lesson 14: Read With Understanding

In the previous series on authority, we studied how to establish authority using the Bible to teach us interpretation principles. We also studied how we should approach areas of disagreement with our brethren. I hope one thing is obvious: the need for each individual Christian to study the truth for himself. We must remember that false doctrines will arise and flourish (2 Peter 2:1-3). We cannot always trust the preacher to correct error; sometimes preachers introduce error

(2 Timothy 3:1-9; 4:2-4). Though

elders are supposed to protect the church from error, sometimes they lead others astray (Acts 20:28-31). The remedy for error, whether from false teachers inside or outside of the church, remains the same—the truth. Some will believe a lie because they do not love the truth but enjoy unrighteousness, 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12. Paul warned Timothy about false teachers and told him to hold to the truth of the scriptures, 2 Timothy 3:13-17. In order to follow false teachers, one must turn away from the truth, 2 Timothy 4:4. Although some elders will introduce false doctrines, God will save those who follow His word, Acts 20:32. Truth is the antidote to error. Antidote that remains in the bottle is useless if we are poisoned. We must ingest the antidote so it can combat the poison. Likewise, if we do not ingest God’s word, we will not be able to combat error. How do we learn the truth and make it part of our lives? We must Not only will God’s word insulate us from error, it will enrich our lives for we will grow in our knowledge of God, learn how to live better lives, become better spouses, parents, and children, and strengthen hope. We should follow the advice of Paul to Timothy regarding study. Paul told the young preacher Timothy to “give attention to reading, exhortation, and doctrine,” 1 Timothy 4:13. We must spend time Bible to learn the stories and to become familiar with the overall Bible message. Reading helps us learn the narrative and see how the whole Bible story fits together. Reading is especially important for ne w Christians. Often we will find something in our reading that will turn into a more in depth study.

Exhortation

We can encourage others with the encouragement we receive from God’s word, 2 Corinthians 1:4. We should spend time reading passages that encourage us to continue in what is good. We can read about Bible characters that did not give up even in the midst of terrible opposition or suffering. We can also read about bad examples and avoid the decisions they made. The encouragement that the epistle writers gave to individuals and churches can motivate us to live righteously. The writers encouraged them to remain faithful and to be busy about God’s work. Of course, reading about our Savior is exhorting for it reminds us about His wonderful love, profound teaching, and eternal promises. When God’s word exhorts you, use it to exhort others.

Doctrine

God’s word, 2 Timothy 3:16. It requires more study and mental effort than simple reading or reading for exhortation. We must consider what the entire Bible says about a particular issue—both directly and in principle—and draw valid conclusions. We must know why we do the things we do in personal service and public worship. Remember, we cannot leave this study to the preacher or the elders. We must know the truth so we can discern error. In addition to the methods of determining authority from the first series of lessons, there are some additional principles offered here to help us read wisely and learn doctrine as taught in God’s word:

Questions for Discussion & Study

1. Pray to God for wisdom, James 1:5.

2. Be diligent, not lazy, 2 Timothy 2:15.

3. Be patient; some things are difficult to understand and might require a lot of time to learn, 2 Peter 3:16.

4. Be logical. God’s word does not oppose logic but embraces it, Acts 26:25.

5. Use common sense. Jesus spoke to the people in their common language not some hidden code. We can understand His word, Ephesians 5:17; 1 John 5:20.

6. Keep it simple. Since the Bible was written for the common person, do not look for hidden messages or other mystical meaning. Look for the plain and simple message.

7. Read in context. Words and sentences have meaning within a broader context. Do not try to force a word or passage to mean something the author did not intend. Look at surrounding passages for understanding.

8. Read in historical and cultural context. The Bible events occurred in history so look at the historical and cultural setting and what impact it might have on interpretation.

9. Handle illustrations and idioms wisely. Sometimes writers use figures of speech, metaphors, and similes to illustrate points. Do not make too much of symbols or apply them in ways in which the author did not intend. 10. Use clear passages to illuminate confusing passages. You will find that the more scriptures you learn, the easier it is to understand unfamiliar passages.

   • 1. List some hindrances to good Bible study and suggested remedies.
   • 2. Why do you think some Christians are reluctant to study issues related to their faith? How would you address that reluctance with them?
   • 3. Why are the lives of great men and women from the Bible encouraging? How can we teach those characters to younger people?
   • 4. Do you think most Christians study issues of doctrine for themselves? Explain your answer.
   • 5. What suggestions would you give for developing better study habits?
   • 6. What does “let scripture interpret scripture” mean?