Why study the Bible? (3)

Daily Bible study equips you for your God-given assignment in life. Paul wrote, “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching…reproof…correction…for training in righteousness; so that the man [and woman] of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work” (vv. 16-17 NAS). According to Paul, all Scripture is profitable—but profitable for what? (1) For doctrine and teaching. It will structure your thinking, and that’s crucial, because if you’re not thinking correctly, you’re not living correctly. What you believe ultimately determines how you behave. (2) For reproof. It will tell you where you’re out of bounds. Like an umpire who cries, “Out!” or “Safe!” the Bible lets you know what’s sinful, and what God wants for your life. (3) For correction. Do you have a closet in the house where you store all the junk you can’t find room for anywhere else? You cram it all in, then one day you forget, open the door, and whoosh!—it all comes out? You say, “Good night! I’d better clean this thing up!” The Bible is like that; it opens the closet doors in your life and provides a purifying dynamic. (4) For training in righteousness. Having corrected us on the negatives, Paul gives us positive guidelines to follow as we go through life. For what reason? “That the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.” Have you ever wished your life was more effective for Jesus Christ? And if so, what have you done to prepare yourself? Bible study is a primary means of becoming an effective servant of Jesus Christ. Nothing can take its place!