INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE STUDENT

My Study Plan:

The book of Revelation reveals Jesus Christ and shows how God’s final Gospel Day is understood through spiritual prophecy. Preparing a Study Plan before starting this Study Guide will assist you in completing it within a designated timeframe. It also helps in developing the discipline required for studying God’s Word effectively.

Proverbs 16:3:

Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.

My Study Guide Journal

Keep a record as you progress through your Study Guide, including the “Personal Responses”, for each section for future reference and goal setting.

Content

• INTRODUCTION
• THE BIBLE AS A WHOLE IS A SPIRITUAL BOOK
• THE TRUTH IS SEALED
• THE SPIRIT OF GOD IS THE SEAL
• THE SPIRIT OF GOD IS THE TEACHER
• THE TRUTH COMES BY REVELATION
• THE WORD OF GOD IS THE AUTHORITY
• WE MUST PRAY FOR UNDERSTANDING
• EVERY WORD OF GOD IS PURE
• SUMMARY

Important Points:

• COGMA does not claim to be infallible or the authority.
• Infallibility and authority belong only to God and His Word.

COGMA therefore strongly advises that you prayerfully study the content of each Study Guide with the heart of a Berean: “Acts 17:10-12”.

Contact and Links

INTRODUCTION

In the first Study Guide, ‘Why Study?’, it was established that God’s Word is the truth. In this second Study Guide on ‘Approaching Study’, we will explore some of the core, unalterable truths about the Word of God.

To study the Bible effectively, there are basic principles and practical considerations we must keep in mind.

First and foremost, we must remember that the Bible is a spiritual book, and it takes the Spirit of God to reveal its truths to us. Understanding cannot be achieved through merely studying the words in a human sense. The Bible was written by the Holy Spirit, and He alone grants us understanding.

2 Samuel 23:1–2 says:

Now these be the last words of David. David the son of Jesse said, and the man who was raised up on high, the anointed of the God of Jacob, and the sweet psalmist of Israel, said, The Spirit of the LORD spake by me, and his word was in my tongue.

They were not David’s words or the words of any other psalmist—they were the Spirit of the Lord’s words. This again affirms that the Bible is a spiritual book.

As you study God’s Word, the Holy Spirit will, in His timing, grant you understanding. Let us continue to learn how God’s Word can be fruitful and bring spiritual profit and benefit into our lives.

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THE BIBLE AS A WHOLE IS A SPIRITUAL BOOK

The Bible as One Cohesive Truth

The Bible is one cohesive truth, spanning from Genesis to Revelation. It is not a collection of separate truths where some can be accepted and others dismissed. Rejecting one part of God’s truth is essentially rejecting all of it.

Jesus Is the Embodiment of Truth

John 14:6 says:

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Jesus identified Himself as the truth, embodying all truth.

God Cannot Lie – The Trustworthiness of His Word

The scriptures affirm that God is incapable of lying, as seen in Hebrews 6:18:

Hebrews 6:18 says:

That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us.

Titus 1:2 says:

In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began.

From these verses, it is clear that doubting or rejecting any part of God’s truth means we are no longer aligning ourselves with Jesus Christ. Rejecting God’s truth leads to spiritual darkness.

The Divine Authorship of the Bible

The Bible stands apart as a truly spiritual book, with God Himself declaring its authorship and ownership:

2 Timothy 3:16–17 says:

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

Essential Principles for Studying the Bible

There are essential, immutable principles we must accept to gain the full benefits and insights from studying the scriptures:

• The Bible, with every word it encompasses, is spiritual, requiring the Holy Spirit to reveal and grant us comprehension of its truths.
• God Himself asserts the ownership and authorship of His Word.
• Although various authors penned the books of the Bible, they collectively harmonise to reveal Jesus Christ as THE TRUTH.

The Role of the Holy Spirit in Understanding Scripture

Peter addresses the divine inspiration behind the scriptures:

2 Peter 1:21 says:

For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

Understanding God’s Word goes beyond merely analysing its text. The Bible, authored by the Holy Spirit, demands His revelation for true understanding and comprehension.

David, who wrote many Psalms, did not rely on his own thoughts but was guided by God, as confirmed in 2 Samuel 23:1–2. The Psalms were the Spirit of the Lord’s words spoken through him.

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Spiritual Discernment Is Essential

Acquiring an understanding of God’s Word is not achievable through conventional education alone. Attending Bible College or a Seminary does not guarantee understanding of the truth. True comprehension of the Bible requires spiritual discernment through the Holy Spirit.

The Bible Is Spiritually Discerned

The Bible is authored by the Holy Spirit, and only He can unlock its meaning for us. It is a spiritual book that necessitates spiritual discernment:

Revelation 1:1 says:

The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John.

The Servants of God Receive Revelation

Who are these servants? The Bible provides clarity:

Romans 6:22 says:

But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.

Genuine Desire and Willingness to Align with God’s Will

Understanding the Word of God is not solely dependent on intellectual capacity or educational achievements but rather on a genuine desire and willingness to align our lives with God’s will:

Isaiah 55:8–9 says:

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.

Acquiring the Mind of Christ

1 Corinthians 2:16 says:

For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

Trust in God for Understanding

Proverbs 3:5–6 says:

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

God’s Spirit Reveals Deep Spiritual Truths

God’s Word can only be revealed by His Spirit, as the human senses are limited:

1 Corinthians 2:9–11 says:

But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.

We must thank God that we have the Spirit of God, which enables us to understand the things of God.

The Example of William Tyndale’s Devotion

William Tyndale, a key figure in translating the Bible into English, exemplified dedication to God’s Word. Despite being imprisoned and facing execution, Tyndale’s unwavering commitment remained evident as he requested his Hebrew Bible even in the face of death. He wrote to a friend, saying:

“Send me for Jesus’ sake a warmer cap, something to pack my leggings, a woollen shirt, and above all, my Hebrew Bible.”

Even as he awaited martyrdom, Tyndale’s desire to study God’s Word was undiminished. This illustrates the profound value of scripture, especially in times of extreme adversity, and reflects how the hunger for divine truth intensifies among the faithful in the most challenging circumstances.

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THE TRUTH IS SEALED

Truth Is Spiritual and Hidden from the Natural Mind

Truth is spiritual and can only be understood by those who have the Holy Spirit dwelling within them. No matter how intelligent or good a person is, without the Spirit of God, truth remains elusive. It cannot be perceived through our physical senses.

In Isaiah, the prophet foretold this reality, describing how, to some, the Bible appears like a sealed book:

Isaiah 29:11–12 says:

And the vision of all is become unto you as the words of a book that is sealed, which men deliver to one that is learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I cannot; for it is sealed: And the book is delivered to him that is not learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I am not learned.

According to Isaiah, the truth is inaccessible to the natural mind and remains unseen. The truth is sealed, and only the Holy Spirit can unlock it for those who have been redeemed and possess God’s Spirit.

Only the Holy Spirit Reveals Spiritual Truth

Only the Holy Spirit can awaken our hearts and minds to understand spiritual truths:

1 Corinthians 2:12 says:

Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.

1 Corinthians 2:14 says:

But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

The Symbolism of Sealed Truth in Revelation

In Revelation chapter 5, John witnesses a book sealed with seven seals in the hand of the one seated on the throne. As no one was worthy to open it, John wept. However, one of the elders pointed to Jesus Christ, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, who prevailed and was able to open the book:

Revelation 5:5 says:

And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.

Revelation 6:1 says:

And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts saying, Come and see.

This Lamb, clearly identified as Jesus Christ, was proclaimed by John the Baptist in John 1:29:

John 1:29 says:

Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.

Jesus Christ, the Revealer of Truth

The act of the Lamb opening the seals symbolises that only Jesus Christ has the authority to reveal or conceal truth. Jesus spoke of this, describing how the Spirit of Truth would guide us into all truth:

John 16:13–14 says:

Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.

The Holy Spirit makes the sealed truth of God, which is beyond our natural comprehension, accessible to us, granting us spiritual understanding.

The Revelation of Truth at Pentecost

The revelation of truth began on the Day of Pentecost, fulfilling the prophecy in Daniel:

Daniel 12:8–10 says:

And I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what shall be the end of these things? And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end. Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.

The Holy Spirit, given on Pentecost, unlocked the sealed truth for the wise — those who are born again. It shed light on the path of righteousness for them. Before Pentecost, even Jesus’ disciples struggled to understand spiritual matters, but the Holy Spirit provided understanding.

Studying the Word of God, guided by the Holy Spirit, leads to spiritual growth and insight. It enriches our understanding, helping us discern the truths that were once sealed to the natural mind.

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THE SPIRIT OF GOD IS THE SEAL

The Essential Role of the Holy Spirit

Romans 8:9 emphasises that without the Spirit of God dwelling in us, we cannot fully grasp the Word of God:

Romans 8:9 says:

But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

This verse is vital for understanding that the Word of God remains inaccessible without the Holy Spirit’s presence within us. The Holy Spirit acts as the Seal, ensuring we can comprehend and apply God’s Word.

The Holy Spirit as the Seal of Salvation

Ephesians 1:13 explains how believers are sealed with the Holy Spirit after receiving the Word of Truth:

Ephesians 1:13 says:

In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise.

In Revelation 6, we see that the Revelation of Jesus Christ is sealed with seven seals, which were locked until Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, made the ultimate sacrifice to unlock them. This unlocking of truth occurred on the Day of Pentecost, with the giving of the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit Unlocks Spiritual Truth

The Holy Spirit is essential for unlocking the Word of God. Without the Holy Spirit, we are spiritually blind and unable to comprehend the Bible’s truths. Blind scribes tried to understand the Scriptures through intellectual means, missing the truth and the necessity of being born again.

The Holy Spirit is the Seal of promise, guaranteeing our salvation and spiritual understanding. Paul prayed for this in Ephesians 1:17–18, asking that we receive the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Christ and that our understanding is enlightened:

Ephesians 1:17–18 says:

That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints.

Ephesians 4:30 says:

And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

Without the Holy Spirit, studying the Bible becomes merely an intellectual exercise, prone to debates and arguments. True study of the Bible is not about intellect, but about allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us into all truth.

Righteousness and the Holy Spirit’s Guidance

The Holy Spirit acts as a Seal, opening or closing our understanding based on our desire for righteousness. Truth is revealed to those who earnestly seek it and live according to God’s will. Those who are genuinely born again and live righteously will understand the truth.

Matthew 5:6 says:

Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.

Those who seek truth with a sincere heart will have the Holy Spirit unlock their understanding, leading them to spiritual fulfilment.

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THE SPIRIT OF GOD IS THE TEACHER

The Danger of Intellectual Approaches to Bible Study

Some believe that in order to study the Bible properly, one must analyse each word’s original Greek or Hebrew form, potentially leading to debates over interpretations. This approach can distort the truth. The Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, is like a symphony, harmonised by the Holy Spirit, its conductor and teacher, guiding us through its unified message.

Truth in one part of the Bible is consistent with truth in every other part; no verse contradicts another. Reflecting on the Word shows us that understanding God’s Word exceeds human mental capabilities, and we need the Holy Spirit as our teacher.

Jesus’ Teaching on the Spirit as Life

John 6:63 says:

It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.

Jesus reminds us that it is the Spirit that gives life, and the flesh (or intellect alone) is not enough. The words of Jesus are spiritual and life-giving.

Paul’s Dependence on the Spirit’s Power

1 Corinthians 2:4 says:

And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power.

This highlights that true understanding of the Bible does not come through eloquent reasoning but through the power of the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit as Our Teacher

As students of the Bible, we must recognise that the Holy Spirit is our teacher, guiding us into all truth. Jesus promised this:

John 14:26 says:

But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

The Anointing of the Holy Spirit for Teaching

John, in his first epistle, further emphasises that the Holy Spirit teaches us all things and eliminates the need for human interpretation:

1 John 2:20, 27 says:

But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things… But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.

This explains the diversity of opinions and confusion among those who rely on human wisdom rather than the Spirit. Without the Holy Spirit, true learning does not occur, and confusion leads to various denominations and sects.

Walking in the Truth Revealed by the Holy Spirit

The foundational truth in this Study Guide is that truth is spiritual, and we must rely on the Holy Spirit for revelation. Walking in the truth revealed by God is crucial for fellowship and purity:

1 John 1:7 says:

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

Walking in the light, guided by the Holy Spirit, is the key to fellowship with God and one another, bringing spiritual cleansing and growth.

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THE TRUTH COMES BY REVELATION

Study with God’s Approval

2 Timothy 2:15 says:

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

At first glance, it may appear that truth is attained solely through human effort. However, Jesus’ words in Luke 13:24 remind us that our striving must be spiritual rather than just intellectual:

Luke 13:24 says:

Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.

God honours those who allow Him to be their teacher. Truth is not meant for mere knowledge but for action, as James points out:

James 1:22–25 says:

But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

God’s Word as the Perfect Seed

God desires us to be workmen who are not ashamed, capable of rightly preaching and teaching His Word, which is the certified seed of truth. Just as the best outcomes come from planting the best seed, the Word of God is the ultimate seed that produces spiritual fruit.

Paul’s Revelation of the Gospel

The Apostle Paul affirmed that his understanding of the Gospel came not from human wisdom but through the revelation of Jesus Christ:

Galatians 1:11–12 says:

But I certify you, brethren, that the Gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Truth must be revealed by God to our hearts for us to understand it and live by it. Paul’s testimony underscores that his preaching and understanding were divinely inspired rather than taught by human hands.

The Personal Revelation of Jesus Christ

Galatians 1:15–16 says:

But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb, and called me by his grace, To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood.

After his conversion, Paul did not consult with the other apostles for three years, making it clear that his Gospel was revealed directly by God. This truth, unveiled by the Holy Spirit, is accessible to every sincere seeker who desires to walk in righteousness.

Consistency of Divine Revelation

Fourteen years after his conversion, Paul went to Jerusalem and discovered that the Gospel he had been preaching was consistent with the message shared by the apostles there:

Galatians 2:2 says:

And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain.

The Spirit of God reveals the same truth to everyone, as God shows no favouritism. His Word is consistent for all, and He treats everyone equally.

The Holy Spirit’s Role in Revelation

In this Study Guide, we’ve learned that the Bible isn’t just a book to be read like any other. It is a spiritual text, and before we open it, we must ask God, through the Holy Spirit, to enlighten our understanding and reveal truth to us. Revelation of spiritual truth is impossible without the Holy Spirit.

1 Corinthians 2:9–10 says:

But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.

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THE WORD OF GOD IS THE AUTHORITY

The Infallibility of God’s Word

Believing that the Bible is steadfast and without contradictions is crucial to successfully studying God’s Word. It is essential to understand that, despite initial appearances, the Bible is the ultimate source of truth. God cannot lie, and His Word is reliable in all circumstances.

Romans 3:4 says:

God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.

Numbers 23:19 says:

God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?

God’s Word is unfailing and trustworthy from beginning to end.

Addressing Apparent Contradictions: The Tomb of Jesus

One apparent contradiction in the Bible arises from the different accounts of the angels at Jesus’ tomb after His resurrection. Luke and Matthew give differing details.

Luke 24:1–6 says:

Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them. And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus. And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments: And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen.

Matthew 28:1–6 says:

In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre. And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow: And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men. And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here: for he is risen, as he said.

At first glance, this might seem like a contradiction — Matthew mentions a single “angel of the Lord”, while Luke describes two “men in shining garments”. However, upon further study, we see that the accounts provide complementary details rather than conflicting ones.

Reconciling Different Perspectives

Both gospel writers relay information they received from others, not as eyewitnesses. Luke mentions several women, while Matthew specifically names Mary Magdalene and the other Mary.

In Matthew, the angel is seen outside the tomb sitting on the stone, while Luke’s account has the women entering the tomb and encountering two men in shining garments.

These accounts offer different perspectives of the same event. Just as two people witnessing the same event may notice different details, these gospel accounts are complementary rather than contradictory. As students of the Bible, we must trust the accuracy of Scripture and seek to understand it more fully when differences arise.

Another Example: The Demon-Possessed Man

Another example of an apparent contradiction involves the accounts of a demon-possessed man in Mark and Luke. Luke mentions only one man, while Mark refers to two men.

This does not imply a contradiction. Mark may have focused on the man with the unclean spirit known as Legion, while Luke concentrated on the same event but chose to highlight only one person.

God’s Word Is True and Without Contradiction

The Bible is true without contradiction, and even when passages seem inconsistent, further study reveals the harmonious nature of Scripture:

Psalm 119:160 says:

Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever.

When we encounter what seems like a contradiction, it signals a need for deeper study. The Word of God remains our ultimate authority, authored by God Himself, and is completely reliable from beginning to end.

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WE MUST PRAY FOR UNDERSTANDING

Seeking God’s Guidance for Spiritual Understanding

The Bible is a spiritual book, and in order to understand its meanings, we must seek God’s guidance to illuminate our understanding. We cannot rely solely on our own intellect:

1 Corinthians 2:9–10 says:

But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.

John 16:13 says:

Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.

David’s Example: Praying for Understanding

David’s prayers in the Psalms offer a model for how we should approach God’s Word with a prayerful attitude, asking God to open our eyes to the truth:

Psalm 119:18 says:

Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.

Psalm 119:27 says:

Make me to understand the way of thy precepts: so shall I talk of thy wondrous works.

Instead of thinking that the Bible doesn’t make sense, we should always pray for God’s help in understanding it. God knows exactly what He has conveyed through His Word, and it is our understanding that often needs enlightenment.

The Bible Interprets Itself

One key principle in studying the Bible is that Scripture interprets itself. When encountering a difficult or obscure passage, there is always another part of the Bible that sheds light on it.

For every dark saying, there is a corresponding ‘mate’ scripture elsewhere in the Bible to clarify its meaning. Searching for the ‘mate’ will help illuminate your understanding.

Jesus Reveals Hidden Truths

God desires His disciples — those committed to living out His Word — to understand the fullness of His truth. Jesus emphasised this:

Matthew 13:35 says:

That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world.

Jesus, the Light of the world, brought clarity to scripture, revealing truths hidden since the world’s foundation. In Revelation 6, He is symbolically shown as the Lamb of God who opens the seven seals, signifying the Holy Spirit’s role in revealing truth.

Steps to Deepening Your Understanding

To gain a deeper understanding of the Bible:

• Allow the Holy Spirit to guide you, teaching you bit by bit.
• Search for related scriptures — find the ‘mates’ to illuminate your study when you encounter challenging passages.
• Observe how Paul often referenced the Old Testament to explain New Testament principles.
• Consistently pray for enlightenment and understanding.

Paul’s Prayer for Spiritual Enlightenment

Paul’s prayer for the Ephesians serves as a model for us, highlighting the necessity of seeking spiritual understanding:

Ephesians 1:16–19 says:

Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power.

God’s Word Is Eternal and Unchanging

Psalm 119:89 says:

For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven.

By searching the scriptures with an open heart and seeking God’s guidance, we will find all the answers we need for spiritual growth and understanding.

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EVERY WORD OF GOD IS PURE

The Divine Inspiration and Purpose of Scripture

Understanding that the Bible is extraordinary and divinely inspired is essential for anyone studying it. Every part of Scripture is filled with purpose, as it is inspired by God Himself:

2 Timothy 3:16 says:

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.

This verse reminds us that the Bible is not just any book but the living Word of God, meant to instruct, correct, and guide us in righteousness.

The Purity and Flawlessness of God’s Word

Proverbs 30:5 says:

Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.

Each line, phrase, and word is crucial for our spiritual growth and understanding of God’s will. Recognising this should inspire us to approach the Bible with the utmost reverence and seriousness.

The Importance of Approach and Attitude in Study

Approaching the Bible casually will yield only casual results. However, when we study with the right mindset, seeking to connect deeply with God’s Word, it leads to profound insights and a deeper relationship with God. This approach fosters not only personal growth and spiritual success but also empowers us to help others on their spiritual journey.

Handling Difficult or Contradictory Passages

When faced with verses that seem contradictory or difficult to understand, it is important to recognise that the problem lies with our perception and understanding, not the Scripture itself.

By acknowledging our limitations and humbly asking God to enlighten our minds, He will guide us to complementary or connecting scriptures — often called ‘mates’ — that clarify difficult passages. God’s Word is perfect and without error, and any confusion we experience is an opportunity to seek further revelation from Him.

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SUMMARY

The Bible as a Spiritual Book

In this Study Guide, ‘Approaching Study’, we have explored the essential principles for studying the Bible effectively. First, we must acknowledge that the Bible is a spiritual book, written by the Holy Spirit, and can only be understood with His guidance. 2 Samuel 23:1–2 confirms that the Psalms were not David’s words but those of the Spirit of God.

The Bible Is One Cohesive Truth

The Bible is one cohesive truth, spanning from Genesis to Revelation. It is not a collection of separate truths, as rejecting one part is akin to rejecting all of God’s Word. Jesus declared Himself to be the truth in John 14:6, affirming the Bible’s role in revealing spiritual truths.

God’s Word Is Infallible

God’s Word is infallible and cannot contradict itself. 2 Timothy 3:16–17 and Proverbs 30:5 emphasise that all Scripture is divinely inspired, profitable for instruction, correction, and spiritual growth. Understanding the Bible goes beyond human intellect and requires spiritual discernment.

The Role of the Holy Spirit in Understanding

Studying the Bible requires the Holy Spirit to reveal its truths. Without the Spirit, the Bible remains a sealed book, as noted in Isaiah 29:11–12 and 1 Corinthians 2:14. Only those born again and seeking righteousness can truly understand it.

The Importance of Prayer for Understanding

We must pray for understanding before studying, as demonstrated by David in Psalm 119:18. The Holy Spirit is our teacher, guiding us into all truth and unveiling deeper revelations through Scripture’s unity.

The Right Approach to Bible Study

By studying the Bible with reverence, humility, and a prayerful heart, we can fully grasp the truths of God’s Word, navigate apparent contradictions with confidence, and grow spiritually. Every word of God is pure, and every passage has a purpose for our lives.

You should now prayerfully review this Study Guide and then continue to the Submission and Appraisal section, which you will submit to COGMA. The online submission process can be found at cogma.com.au.

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SUBMISSION TO COGMA FOR APPRAISAL