Post by Don Gieseke on Jan 15, 2018 7:55:33 GMT -6
The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, 12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13 until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ. 14 We must no longer be children, tossed to and fro and blown about by every wind of doctrine, by people's trickery, by their craftiness in deceitful scheming.
Paul indicates in this passage that growing up in Christ involves searching and understanding scripture so that we will not be 'tossed to and fro and blown about by every wind of doctrine.' Bible study can be daunting. I list below a few tips if you are new to scripture reflection or need to jump start your devotional life.
Set aside time for Bible reading. Make it a habit. If you are already dedicating time to a morning devotion such as this, add a group study if at all possible. There is great benefit in hearing from scholars and insights from others.
Do not attempt to read the Bible from beginning to end by yourself. You will likely become discouraged and have endless unanswered questions.
Try a book at a time. I recommend starting with one of the four gospels- Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John. John is more theological, while Matthew, Mark, and Luke offer more details about Jesus' life.
Read one passage through at least three times. Keep a journal adding any insights discovered with each reading.
Read the same passage in various translations.
Pray and ask God to guide you in your learning.
Ask yourself questions such as: "What does this passage say about human beings?" What did it say to its original hearers?" "What is it saying to me?" "What does it say about God?"
Pastor Brenda Newman
Paul indicates in this passage that growing up in Christ involves searching and understanding scripture so that we will not be 'tossed to and fro and blown about by every wind of doctrine.' Bible study can be daunting. I list below a few tips if you are new to scripture reflection or need to jump start your devotional life.
Set aside time for Bible reading. Make it a habit. If you are already dedicating time to a morning devotion such as this, add a group study if at all possible. There is great benefit in hearing from scholars and insights from others.
Do not attempt to read the Bible from beginning to end by yourself. You will likely become discouraged and have endless unanswered questions.
Try a book at a time. I recommend starting with one of the four gospels- Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John. John is more theological, while Matthew, Mark, and Luke offer more details about Jesus' life.
Read one passage through at least three times. Keep a journal adding any insights discovered with each reading.
Read the same passage in various translations.
Pray and ask God to guide you in your learning.
Ask yourself questions such as: "What does this passage say about human beings?" What did it say to its original hearers?" "What is it saying to me?" "What does it say about God?"
Pastor Brenda Newman