Saturday, June 21, 2014

Study to Show Thyself Approved

After blogging about trials and tests a few weeks ago, God has afforded me the opportunity to do a 16-week Precept Ministry study on the Book of James using the Inductive Bible Study Method. God knows just what we need through our seasons of life.

I was introduced to the inductive study method several years ago one day while listening to Kay Arthur share her life’s testimony on a Christian Radio Station. She described how the inductive study method enables one to come to an understanding of what the Bible says by solely using scripture. This peaked my interest as I was used to studying God’s Word for years with the aide of Bible Commentaries or going off of what the Pastor said over the pulpit. I read the Bible myself, but there were passages that I had difficulty coming to an understanding of. I relied heavily on Bible Study workbooks and commentaries. Through the Precept inductive study method, I learned tools like identifying key words and themes, word studies, and how to understand the Bible through the use of scripture itself.
God did not give us the Bible to be a piece of art work on our coffee tables or a book end that collects dust with all our other living room knick knacks. It was given to us to read, study, and even struggle through as we strive to know God. God tells us that as we draw near to Him, He draws near to us. The God of the Universe reveals Himself to us through His Word.
In just the short time that I’ve been studying through James, I have been deeply encouraged by this letter from Jesus half-brother. The book illustrates what a true follower of Christ looks like and how they are to live through trials. Instead of whining, complaining, and feeling defeated through the tests of life, James encourages us to let endurance have its full effect as God refines us to ultimately be complete, perfect, and lacking in nothing.
If you think you’ve arrived in your Christian walk and you have life all figured out, read the Book of James and ponder over how much more you can be changed to be a light for Christ.
Read more here about Precept Ministries and the Inductive Bible Study Method.  

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