Why does the Bible matter?

Ways to Engage

• Memorize & Define

  • Memorize 2 Timothy 3:15-17. Continue to revisit and recall these verses as you read other Scripture, reminding yourself of the significance and efficacy of the Bible.

  • Define any terms from the 3 verses above that may be less familiar to you or may need a second glance to refresh your memory. Examples include rebuke, Christ, righteousness, etc.

• Rewrite

  Read the 3 versions of 2 Timothy 3:15-17 that are shared in the parallel Bible translations linked here.

  Then rewrite 2 Timothy 3:15-17 in your own words. Even better, write these scriptures within a community of a local church. This process will help refine your thinking and offer you support as you grow in your understanding of the scriptures.

• Pray

  Each time that you read the Bible over the next month, begin by praying through 2 Timothy 3:15-17 to help set the tone for your Bible reading.

  If you need some help getting started, here are a few prompts:

  • Ask God to help you understand his salvation as presented through the Bible.

  • Thank God for teaching you through the Bible.

  • Confess to God the ways you currently seek wisdom in the world, and ask him to forgive you and show you his wisdom that leads to abundant life.

• Word Reflections

  Break down 2 Timothy 3:15-17 into parts by noun, adjective and verb. Examples include:

  • Nouns - Scriptures, Jesus, etc

  • Adjectives - holy, wise

  • Verbs - teaching

  Then consider the following questions:

  • Which of the words above do you resonate with the most when it comes to reading the Bible? Why?

  • Which of the words above do you feel disconnected from the most when it comes to reading the Bible? Why?

• Commitments from Scripture

  Read the Scriptures below about the importance of the Bible. As you read,  write a list of commitments to read the Scripture based on the verses. Ex: I will read the Bible because I trust that it will teach me.

  • Psalm 119:105

  • Romans 15:4

  • Hebrews 4:12

  • James 1:22

  • Matthew 4:4

  • Deuteronomy 6:4-9

• Make a Plan

  Make a plan to read the Bible this week. Think about the following things:

  • If you aren’t currently reading the Bible at all, how could you set aside time to read it once or twice? If you read the Bible sporadically, consider setting an alarm or calendar notification to remind you to read it more consistently. 

  • Look up times for Bible studies at a local church and sign up to participate if you can. Not only will this provide structure and accountability, but it will also provide a way to learn from others who may have more knowledge to share.

  • If you’re pressed for time, what can you partner with Bible reading or swap for Bible reading? Can you try out an audio Bible on your commute? Can you give up 30 minutes of social media time to read? 

  • Need a reading plan to get you started? Read one of the gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke or John) to learn more about Jesus.