Study the Word
Being in a Bible study is the best way to grow in your relationship with God along with other believers. Bible study is not an option for the believer; it’s an essential. “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope” (Romans 15:4 NIV). Consider these three benefits you can expect when you invest in a study of God’s Word:
- Bible Study is essential for growth. “Like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the Word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation” (1 Peter 2:2 NASB). Just as a baby grabs for the bottle, so we are to grab for God’s book. A baby has to have milk to sustain its life physically; we have to have the Scriptures to sustain our lives spiritually.
- Bible Study is essential for spiritual maturity. “Concerning [Christ] we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, for you have become dull of hearing. For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you have need again for someone to teach you the elementary principles of the oracles of God, and you have come to need milk and not solid food… solid food is for the mature…” (Hebrews 5:11-14 NASB). Solid food is for the mature, but some people continue to feed on milk. A continued commitment to Bible study will allow you to be “weaned” from elementary teachings so that your understanding of Jesus is deeper and richer.
- Bible Study is essential for spiritual effectiveness. “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right. It is God’s way of preparing us in every way, fully equipped for every good thing God wants us to do. (2 Tim. 3:16-17 NLT).” Paul says all Scripture is profitable. Profitable for what? He mentions four things, but the overall purpose is that you might be equipped to be an effective servant of Jesus Christ.
These studies have been written by Grace Cabalka, Laurelglen Bible Church’s former Women’s Ministries Director of 20 plus years. Her desire is to see women not only know the uncompromising truths of Scripture intellectually but experience them practically and to lead women into a deeper love walk with the Lord through the study and application of His Word. She is currently serving at Laurelglen Bible Church as director of community connections. She is married to Steve, an energetic P.E. teacher and coach, and they have five adult children plus three grandsons.
Celebrating Our Hope Bible Study
Learning From Jesus Bible Study