BIBLE STUDY GUIDE

By German Santos

 The purpose of this section is to help interested people learn the Bible. As mentioned in 2 Timothy 3:16-17, "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work." By learning and understanding the Bible, we may find the wisdom and knowledge to know what is good and bad.

The Bible is not an ordinary book. Everything we need to know about salvation and the works of God are all written in this book. To completely understand the Bible, we must first ask guidance from the Holy Spirit, who will then give us the wisdom and "light" as we study. In studying the Bible, we should follow the pattern as discussed by Isaiah 28:13. "But the word of the Lord was to them: Precept upon precept, precept upon precept, Line upon line, line upon line, Here a little, there a little…." meaning, that we study by topic and by getting all the supporting texts from all the Scriptures.

Why and how the Bible was written.

The Bible is composed of 66 books with approximately 40 authors. The first book of the Bible is called "Genesis" and the last book is called "The Revelation".

Why was the Bible written?

That we may believe in God, and in believing we may have eternal life (John 20:31).

How was the Bible Written?

God spoke to the prophets (Hebrews 1:1-2). He spoke to them directly (Jeremiah 32:1). He spoke through visions and dreams (Job 33:14-16, Numbers 12:6, Daniel 7:1). God told the prophets to write all things men need to know, all the things He has said (Jeremiah 30:2), all He has shown, and the things that are to come (Revelation 1:19).

Are there any other terms or words used to describe the Bible?

The compilation of God’s words is defined in many terms. At times, it is referred to as the "Holy Scriptures" (2 Timothy 3:15), the "Word of God" (1 Thessalonians 2:13), and the "Book of the Lord" (Isaiah 34:16).

For what profit are these Scriptures?

That man may know that God wanted us to be wise, righteous, thoroughly equipped and complete of good works for our salvation through faith which is in Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 3:15-17). That we may also believe in Jesus Christ, as the Son of God, and have eternal life (John 20:31).

The Bible was written for us to know and understand the love, the law and character of God. That we may not be deceived by false teachings (Matthew 24:4-5, 11-14, 24), doctrines and traditions (Mark 7:7-9). Erroneous teachings come in not knowing the Scriptures (Matthew 22:29). In 2 Corinthians 11:13-14, it is said that Satan transforms himself as an "angel of light", deceiving the world. If we are not knowledgeable of the Bible, how can we protect ourselves and escape from such deceitful teachings and beliefs.

Brethren, I urge and invite you to open and study your Bible. The Bible holds the truth, and in it you could find the answers to your questions in life. Who knows, maybe some of the things you are doing right now could all be based on traditions and church doctrines. Would you like to find out?