GETTING READY: Why do we study the Bible?

Starting next week, we'll begin a series of introductory posts about the books of Romans and James, to help you prepare for next year.  But before we start diving into new text, let's pause a moment and think about why we study the Bible and why we Quiz. 

We take part in Bible Quizzing, because it encourages us to learn the Bible, right?  (I am hoping your answer is "Yes", but it's okay if it's "Yes, but there are other reasons, too.")  We love the Bible because we believe it is God's Word - His method of communicating with human beings.

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,
2 Timothy 3:16

 But there is a real danger in studying the scriptures, too.  Jesus actually had words of warning about it for the Pharisees and Teachers of the Law of his own day.

You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me,John 5:39

It is possible when studying the Bible to start thinking that the scriptures are the most important thing.  They are very important, but they are important because they point us to Jesus and to God!

Paul also has a warning to his readers.

...we know that “all of us possess knowledge.” This “knowledge” puffs up, but love builds up.
1 Corinthians 8:1

There is always a temptation when you gain knowledge to use it as a basis for pride.  But scripture is always warning people to be humble.  We're all nothing before God, and our best knowledge is only a tiny fraction of real understanding.

As we move into this new Bible Quizzing season, take a moment to examine and prepare your heart for your studying.  Make sure you are studying for the right reasons - to know God - and not for the wrong ones.