https://odb.org/MY/2023/03/16/scripture-training
If we put in the effort to study the Scriptures, whether New or Old Testament in our free time on top of our quiet time, I am sure we will learn a lot that will enrich our soul and strengthen our spirit. Paul exhorts in 2 Timothy 3:16 that all Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction for righteousness that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. In other words, Scripture completes us as a man of God and properly and thoroughly equips us to prepare us for God’s work. It also means that we can not be fully effective in ministry if we do not study the Scriptures. Why? Because the essence of who God is resides in the Word of God. The essence of life itself, which is God, is logos, and that’s the Word of God. As we read and study and research, we will derive both the logos and the rhema of the Word.
When we study the Scriptures, we will see many life stories and historical events, but the theme from Genesis to Revelation is God’s love for His people. He spoke through His prophets during ancient times. He then came on earth and became man. Jesus was God-personified in human form, and He was gentle and humble. He was not a galaxy away but right here with us, next to us, and after the crucifixion of Christ for the sins of mankind, He remains with us through the Holy Spirit. In worship, we see Him face to face in our spirit, but to know who He is, we need to read and understand His Word. To relate to Him, to communicate with Him, we need to read His Word. His Word is alive and will guide us through to salvation. In the often turbulent sea of life, His Word is the safe harbour of salvation. His Word is like the beacon of the lighthouse showing us where is where, so we may land safely ashore. His Word is both a shield for our faith and a doubled edged sword to slay and destroy the evil plans of the enemy.
There are many nuances that we can not easily discover just by reading the Word plainly. Although a verse to another may look like the next day, sometimes many years had passed in between. It is usually sequential but not necessarily the next day or week or even month. A deeper study will reveal the truth to us.
The message this morning is to spend time studying the Scriptures. It can only lead to good things. 100%, it will not be a wasted effort. It will be worth every minute spent. It leads us to eternity, and as we read more, our passage to eternal life will be preserved and safeguarded. Make thy Word a lamp unto my path, O Lord, my Lord and Saviour, my beloved Father in heaven!
Ronnie's Thoughts 