Common Questions Associated with Bible Study
Q: Why study the Bible?
A: The Bible is God's gift to us! God speaks through His Word, teaches through His Word, and
touches us in a very real way through His Word. John 1:14 tells us "the Word became flesh..." He is talking about Jesus! Jesus is the Word! So as we study God's Word we get to know Jesus more and more.
In every Green Pastures Bible Study we endeavor to understand God, His Character and His ways through the book of the Bible we are studying at the time. God's revelation of Himself is paramount in the Scriptures. From Genesis to Revelation, in every passage, God helps us to know Him as Father, Son (Jesus), and Holy Spirit. It is a great adventure!
Q: Why study the Old Testament (OT)?
A: Every principle taught in the New Testament (NT) has an Old Testament story to "flesh it out." The converse is true as well. Every Old Testament story teaches a life-changing principle of God. Jesus was actually referring to the Old Testament when He said, "...the Scriptures...testify about Me..." (John 5:39). We study the Old Testament to know more about Jesus. He is there!
Q: Is it better to study the Bible alone or in a group?
A: We strongly encourage every believer or seeker to study God's Word individually and with other believers.
Our God is very personal and encourages individual Bible study. He speaks of His Word as nourishment (Matthew 4:4 ), a light (Psalm 119:105), sweeter than honey (Psalm 119:103), and as a spiritual sword (Ephesians 6:17). All having personal applications and implications.
God also blesses the corporate study of His Word! In the book of Acts, believers came together regularly to study God's Word and it served as a time of fellowship and strengthening.
Q: What version of the Bible should I use?
A: The version that enables you to hear God's voice most clearly. Any version you choose has been translated by fallible men. Thankfully, God is able to overcome man's shortcomings! Simply make sure it is the complete Word of God (from Genesis to Revelation) and approach it with an open, teachable heart. God will take care of the rest.
Note: All Jesus Ministries' Bible Studies are taught from The New International Version.