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Hearing From God

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV

For the last few days, you’ve been taking time to connect with God and hear from Him through reading the Bible. And, if you couldn’t already tell, the Bible is a big deal to disciples of Jesus. Because of that, it’s important for us to take some time to learn what the Bible is, why it’s so significant, and how we can engage with it wisely.

So, what is the Bible?

The Bible is a collection of stories, poetry, history, instructions, and letters written over the course of hundreds of years by dozens of authors that are all telling one story: the story of God’s redemptive plan to rescue humanity and restore creation.

The Bible is not a textbook with the answers to all of our questions. It’s not a rulebook with all the rules to life. It’s not a collection of inspiring quotes meant to make us feel glad when we’re feeling bad. And it’s not a book of tips and tricks designed to help us live a successful life.

The Bible is a story that leads us to Jesus and transforms us to be more like Jesus.

Why is the Bible a big deal?

Throughout history, the people of God have believed that it is through the Bible that God speaks to us. This is why the Bible is often referred to as the Word of God.

As students of Jesus, we study the Scriptures. Because it is through studying the Bible that we can learn who God is, who we are because of Jesus, His vision for life in community, and how we’re meant to live as His disciples.

Our relational God wants a relationship with you. And one of the best ways we can foster a strong relationship with Him is by hearing from Him through studying the Bible.

How do we read it?

If we want to read the Bible wisely, there are two big ideas we have to keep in mind.

1. Jesus is King.
2. Context is everything.

Jesus is King. The entire Bible is a story that leads to Jesus and transforms us to become more like Him. God revealed Himself most clearly through the person of Jesus. Everything in the Bible, in some form or fashion, is intended to lead us to Jesus or help be more like Jesus. Sometimes by showing us what to do, and other times, what not to do.

Context is everything. The Bible was written by people living in a different time, place, culture, context, and language than we find ourselves in today. So, if we want to understand the Bible wisely, we have to take time to learn the context. Who was the author? What were they trying to accomplish? Who was the original audience? When we take the time to learn what the Bible meant then, we’re way closer to understanding what it’s supposed to mean now.

Pray: Heavenly Father, help me to hear from You through your Word. Make me more like Jesus and teach me how to show others just how good You are.

Bonus: Watch this video to learn about how to make friends and change the world!