INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE STUDENT

My Study Plan:

The book of Proverbs offers valuable guidance on how to conduct our lives successfully as disciples of Jesus Christ.

Proverbs 16:3 states:

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

Preparing a Study Plan before starting your Study Guide will assist you in successfully completing it within a designated timeframe. It also helps in developing the discipline required for studying God’s Word effectively.

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
• WHY STUDY
• STUDY – IT’S OUR JOB
• THE WORD CLEANSES
• THE WORD IS LIFE GIVING-POWER
• THE WORD BRINGS PROFIT
• THE WORD LEADS TO SPIRITUAL SUCCESS
• THE WORD PRODUCES SPIRITUAL GROWTH
• THE WORD MAKES US EFFECTIVE WORKERS
• WHY SHOULD WE STUDY THE WORD OF GOD
• 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 this initial module titled Study for Approval, you will acquire tools for learning how to study God’s Word. This Study Guide unveils the principles of effective study.

When we are born again and transformed into a new creation, we develop a longing to understand as much as possible about the Word of God and His Kingdom.

Often, we feel a strong desire to study, but confusion arises about how to study God’s Word effectively.

This series of Study Guides provides an outline to equip you with the knowledge and skills required for study.

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WHY STUDY?

Increasing Knowledge vs. Seeking Spiritual Truth

“Why study?” At first glance, this question seems straightforward with a simple answer. The natural mind might quickly respond, “to increase knowledge.”

However, gaining knowledge for its own sake is not the ultimate goal. Simply acquiring knowledge is insufficient.

Many people hold theological degrees and can quote Scripture, yet continue to walk in darkness, sinning daily in thought, word, and deed.

The Tree of Life and the Tree of Knowledge

Genesis 2:9, 17 states:

And out of the ground made the LORD God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food; the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil. But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.

There is a significant difference between pursuing knowledge and seeking truth that guides our actions. Studying for the sake of knowledge alone is like eating from the “tree of the knowledge of good and evil”, which does not nourish spiritual life.

Our primary focus should be on studying to discover spiritual truth by which we can live. This is equivalent to partaking from the “tree of life.”

The Danger of Studying for Knowledge Alone

When we seek knowledge only to increase our own wisdom, it often leads to arrogance and self-importance, rooted in selfishness.

Instead, we should seek spiritual truth to align our lives with Christ’s truth.

We must strive to become living “epistles” that reflect these truths in our daily lives.

The Contrast Between Knowledge And Obedience

Jesus highlighted the contrast between humanistic study for knowledge’s sake and spiritually inspired study from the tree of life.

Matthew 7:22–27 states:

Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Therefore, whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.

The Purpose of Studying God’s Word

The purpose of studying God’s Word is to please God and obey His revealed truth. Seeking spiritual truth through study, with the intent to act upon and obey God’s Word, is fundamental.

On the other hand, studying simply to acquire knowledge for its own sake does not provide a lasting foundation and leads to spiritual death.

The reason we study the Word of God is to please God and obey His revealed truth. Studying to seek and obey spiritual truth is essential, while studying solely for knowledge lacks an everlasting foundation and results in spiritual death.

Indeed, studying to seek and obey spiritual truth is foundational, while studying solely to acquire knowledge lacks an everlasting foundation.

Only when we study God’s Word and live by what God reveals are we eating from the tree of life.

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STUDY – IT’S OUR JOB

A Biblical Command to Study

Paul the apostle wrote these words in 2 Timothy:

2 Timothy 2:15 states:

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

Studying the Word is a biblical commandment. For those who are spiritual, this is not a burden, but a blessing and a responsibility.

Our Responsibility as Christians

As Christians, we have a responsibility. Demonstrating our love for Jesus and His Word involves obeying His commandments.

Our goal is to have our lives moulded by His Word into His image, so that we may please Him.

1 John 5:3 states:

For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.

The Revelation of Spiritual Truth

The revelation of spiritual truth, gained through proper study, is always beneficial, both spiritually and physically.

It is vital to remember that the Bible is a spiritual book and must be understood through spiritual discernment.

Scripture, being God-breathed, must be revealed to us by the Spirit of God, who is our Teacher.

The Role of the Holy Spirit in Understanding

Understanding spiritual truth that benefits our lives is possible only when it is revealed by the Holy Spirit, enlightening our hearts and minds.

This revelation of God’s truth not only satisfies our hearts but also encourages us to walk in His truth.

Isaiah 55:8–9 states:

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.

The Importance of Correct Interpretation

Correct interpretation of God’s Word is not possible without the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

We also understand that God’s Word embodies love, and when it is revealed to us, it will not cause harm but will always bring spiritual benefit.

Righteousness is the right way.

Study Gives Confidence

It is vital to study, because it gives us confidence to know what the Bible—our manual—says about our responsibility.

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THE WORD CLEANSES

Confession and Cleansing from Sin

The Word of God provides clear guidance on how a person can be cleansed from sin. This begins with humility and confession.

1 John 1:9 states:

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

This shows that cleansing is not based on human effort, but on God’s faithfulness and justice.

Staying Pure Through the Word

The key to maintaining our salvation and remaining pure is through studying the Word of God and living in the light that it reveals.

1 John 1:7 states:

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 means living according to the truth that God reveals through His Word.

Walking in the Light of God’s Word

Light becomes active in our lives when we obey God’s Word. It is the Word of God in Christ that sustains us and keeps us.

Jude 1:24 states:

Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy.

This shows that God is able to keep us, but we must walk in the light He gives.

The Power of the Gospel for Salvation

We must receive and live by the Gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation.

Romans 1:16 states:

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

The Gospel is not just something we believe once—it is something we continue to live by.

The Word Saves and Removes Barriers

The Word of God works within us to remove the things that hinder our walk.

It saves us from pride and breaks down the barriers we have built around ourselves.

Psalm 119:105 states:

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

Only when we allow God’s Word to guide us can we walk in purity and clarity.

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THE WORD IS LIFE GIVING-POWER

Spiritual Life Through the Word

The Word of God provides ongoing spiritual life through its daily sustaining power.

1 Peter 1:23 states:

Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

This shows that spiritual life begins through the Word of God. It is not temporary, but enduring and living.

The Spirit Gives Life

It is through the Word that we are born again. The Word works by the Spirit to give life.

John 6:63 states:

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

This teaches that the Word is not merely written truth—it is spiritual life when received and understood.

The Word Sustains Spiritual Life

We must study the Word because it not only begins spiritual life, but also sustains it.

Just as physical life requires food and drink, spiritual life must be sustained through continual intake of the Word of God.

Jesus expressed this in John 6:56:

He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him.

This illustrates continual dependence on Christ through His Word.

The Life-Giving Power of God’s Word

Job recognised the value of God’s Word as essential to life.

Job 23:12 states:

Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.

The Word is not optional—it is necessary for spiritual life.

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THE WORD BRINGS PROFIT

The Profit of God’s Word

The Word of God brings profit to every part of our spiritual life.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 states:

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

Scripture is profitable because it teaches us what is true, exposes what is wrong, corrects our direction, and trains us in righteousness.

Doctrine, Reproof, Correction, and Instruction

Doctrine teaches us what God wants us to believe and live.

Reproof exposes error and brings conviction.

Correction restores us to the right path.

Instruction in righteousness trains us to live in a way that pleases God.

The Word Equips Us

Paul continues by explaining the purpose of the Word’s profit.

2 Timothy 3:17 states:

That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

The Word equips us for every good work. It prepares us to live faithfully and serve effectively.

True Profit Is Spiritual

The profit of God’s Word is not measured by worldly gain, but by spiritual growth, obedience, and usefulness in God’s Kingdom.

God’s Word makes us complete and ready for His work.

Spiritual Profit Leads to Fruitfulness

When the Word is received and obeyed, it produces fruit in our lives.

This fruit is seen in character, understanding, service, and obedience.

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THE WORD LEADS TO SPIRITUAL SUCCESS

True Spiritual Success

The Word of God reveals the path to true spiritual success.

Success in God’s eyes is not measured by human achievement, possessions, or status, but by obedience, faithfulness, and fruitfulness.

Meditating on the Word

Joshua was instructed to meditate on God’s Word and obey it carefully.

Joshua 1:8 states:

This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that you mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then you shalt make thy way prosperous, and then you shalt have good success.

The prosperity and success spoken of here are connected to obedience to God’s Word.

Success Through Obedience

Spiritual success comes when we meditate on God’s Word, obey it, and allow it to shape our decisions.

The Word protects us from deception and guides us into righteousness.

Fruitfulness in God’s Kingdom

The life that is rooted in God’s Word becomes fruitful.

Psalm 1:1-3 states:

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shalt be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shalt not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

A life planted in God’s Word becomes stable, fruitful, and spiritually successful.

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THE WORD PRODUCES SPIRITUAL GROWTH

Growth Through the Word

The Word of God produces spiritual growth in the life of the believer.

Just as a newborn child needs milk to grow physically, a new believer needs the sincere milk of the Word to grow spiritually.

1 Peter 2:2 states:

As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.

The Need for Desire

Spiritual growth begins with desire. We must hunger for the Word of God and receive it with humility.

Without desire, growth becomes slow and weak. With desire and obedience, the Word strengthens us.

Moving from Milk to Meat

As believers mature, they must move beyond basic truths and grow into deeper understanding.

Hebrews 5:12-14 states:

For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, you have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and have become such as need of milk, and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongs to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

Growth requires use. As we apply the Word, our discernment becomes stronger.

Growing in Grace and Knowledge

Peter encouraged believers to continue growing.

2 Peter 3:18 states:

But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Spiritual growth is not only learning facts. It is growing in grace and in relationship with Christ.

The Word Builds Us Up

Paul described the Word as able to build believers up.

Acts 20:32 states:

And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.

The Word strengthens, establishes, and matures us.

Growth Must Continue

Spiritual growth is not optional. Every believer should continue to mature in understanding, character, and obedience.

The Word provides the nourishment needed for this growth.

The Word Produces Christlikeness

The goal of spiritual growth is to become more like Christ.

As the Word works in us, our thoughts, desires, attitudes, and actions are shaped by Him.

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THE WORD MAKES US EFFECTIVE WORKERS

Equipped for Service

The Word of God equips us to become effective workers in God’s Kingdom.

A worker who does not know the Word cannot rightly divide the truth or help others effectively.

2 Timothy 2:15 states:

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

This verse shows that study prepares us to serve without shame.

Ready to Give an Answer

Peter instructed believers to be ready to answer others with meekness and fear.

1 Peter 3:15 states:

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asks you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.

The Word prepares us to explain our hope and defend the faith with humility.

An effective worker is not merely active, but equipped by the truth.

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WHY SHOULD WE STUDY THE WORD OF GOD?

We should study the Word of God because it is our guide, our light, our food, our cleansing, our protection, and our source of spiritual strength.

Through study, we grow in understanding and become more effective in serving God.

Study is not merely an academic exercise. It is a spiritual responsibility and privilege.

We study because we want to know God, please Him, obey Him, and live according to His truth.

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SUMMARY

This Study Guide has shown that study is essential for every believer who desires to please God and grow in spiritual truth.

Studying God’s Word is not about gaining knowledge for pride or self-importance. It is about discovering truth that we can obey and live by.

Jesus emphasised the importance of building one’s life on a firm foundation through obedience to God’s Word. The goal of study is to please God and obey His truth, not just to acquire knowledge for its own sake.

Studying God’s Word is a biblical command. Paul, in 2 Timothy 2:15, stresses the importance of becoming an approved worker by rightly handling the Word.

Understanding spiritual truth is only possible through the Holy Spirit’s guidance. This revelation is always beneficial, leading to spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with Christ.

The Bible not only cleanses us from sin, but also provides life-giving power. Spiritual life is sustained through the Word, which is essential for living a fruitful Christian life.

Studying God’s Word makes us effective workers, equipping us to minister to others and defend the faith.

The reasons for studying the Word include:

• It cleanses
• It has life-giving and life-sustaining power
• It leads to spiritual growth and understanding
• It makes us effective workers for God’s Kingdom

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SUBMISSION TO COGMA FOR APPRAISAL

Instructions