Search the Word:
"Grow in grace, and in the Knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" --2 Peter 3:18 The consistent reading of God's Word brings light into the eyes of our understanding in the same way that light replaces darkness. The knowledge of God and His graces bring light into our hearts and influences us to follow him and grow to know and be more like him each day. How did Peter expect people to grow in the knowledge of Christ unless they read the Scripture, which even today is the only place that true knowledge can be found? Did he know that until the end of the age, taking the time to know Christ through a study of the Scriptures would be the Christian's hardest task? That may be just the reason for the exhortation. He also knew that it would not be possible for man to obtain this understanding from preaching alone. How does a congregation know that what is being taught is correct without searching the Scriptures for themselves? The ability to understand what the Scriptures teach is available to everyone. The Holy Spirit is ready for your questions and inquiries. That is a part of His job, to teach you what the Bibleis saying and make personal application in your life. Commentaries are helpful and study guides are also a valuable tool. But, the first requirement in getting to know God is your personal search for what God wants to teach you. The Scriptures were written, "for our learning." The apostles never hid the Word from the people. Rather, they were encouraged to read it and hide it in their hearts. Having God's Word in your heart brings about change. Over time, we become different because our hearts, attitudes, motives and desires have been changed. We begin to view things the way that God does. We treat people like he would; love people like he does. It is true that some preachers and teachers throughout time have twisted the gospel to their own destruction. Still, that will never be reason enough to keep from all of mankind. The Scriptures will continue to bring about the most pronounced and dramatic change in man. Read on!
Dave Grimes
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