Real Christians Learn
Series: Authentic Living in an Artificial World – City Church of Chattanooga, Chattanooga, TN
Despite what you may have heard, ignorance is not bliss. The Old Testament prophet said, “My people are destroyed because of a lack of knowledge” (Hosea 4:6). This means that ignorance is not bliss. It is dangerous.
Jesus told us that we are to love God with our minds (Matthew 22:37). He also said that when we know the truth, the truth will set us free (John 8:32). Real Christians use their minds. Real Christians learn.
WHY LEARNING THE BIBLE IS IMPORTANT
The Bible brings purity to our lives.
Psalm 119:11, I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.
Ephesians 5:25, Christ loved the Church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing of water through the Word. The Bible gives us power for spiritual battles.
Ephesians 6:17, Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.
Hebrews 4:12, For the Word of God is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword. The Bible causes us to live in peace.
Philippians 4:8-9, Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, Whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things, and the peace of God will be with you. The Bible gives us principles to live by.
Hebrews 5:14, But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to
distinguish good from evil. The Bible prepares us to achieve our purpose in life.
2 Timothy 3:16-17, All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful…so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. The Bible leads us to the Person of the Book.
John 5:39, You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about me.
Matthew 11:29, Take my yoke upon you and learn from me…and you will find rest for your souls.
HOW TO BECOME A PERSON OF THE BOOK
Receive instruction from teachers in the Church.
Ephesians 4:11, 12, And Jesus gave…some to be pastors and teachers to prepare God’s people for works of service. This is like “eating out.” Take advantage of Christian books and materials.
2 Timothy 4:13, When you come bring the…books, especially the parchments. This is like a “take out meal.” Read the Bible personally.
Psalm 119:16, I will not neglect your Word. This is like a “home-cooked meal.” A “recipe” for meaningful Bible reading…
1. Read regularly – Have a plan.
2. Read prayerfully – Ask God to meet you in his Word.
3. Read with repentantly – Read for transformation, not just information.
4. Read reflectively – The goal is not to get through the scriptures. It is to get the Scriptures in us.
