Loving God, Loving People
Have you ever heard someone quote a verse and wondered, “Is that what it means?” That is a good question to ask. If we want to follow God’s Word, we need to understand it as carefully as we can.
You do not need an advanced degree to begin. A Bible, an open heart, and a willingness to read patiently are a good start.
A verse is part of a larger thought. Read the paragraph before and after it. Ask who is speaking, who is being addressed, and what question or problem is under discussion.
For example, Ephesians 2:8–10 speaks about both salvation by grace and the good works for which believers are created in Christ. Reading the whole passage helps us see the relationship: we do not earn salvation through our accomplishments, and the life God gives us is meant to produce good works. (Ephesians 2:1–10)
The Bible includes history, poetry, wisdom, prophecy, and letters. A poem may use vivid pictures. A historical account may describe a person’s wrongdoing without approving it. A letter may answer a particular congregation’s problem.
Before asking how a passage applies today, ask what it communicated to its first hearers.
We value the Old Testament as Scripture that teaches us and gives us hope. We also recognize that God’s people live under the new covenant established through Christ. We should not assume that every instruction given to ancient Israel is a direct command to the church.
After His resurrection, Jesus explained how the Scriptures pointed to His suffering, resurrection, and the proclamation of repentance and forgiveness. His teaching helps us understand how the parts of the Bible fit together. (Romans 15:4; Luke 24:44–47)
Compare related passages. Ask questions when something is unclear. Be willing to correct your understanding rather than forcing a verse to support an answer you already prefer.
Then put what you understand into practice. James warns us against hearing the Word without doing it. Careful reading should lead to faithful living. (James 1:22–25)
Try beginning with one chapter of a Gospel. Read it twice, write down your questions, and choose one teaching to consider carefully. You are welcome to bring your questions to Bible class.