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
• WE MUST HAVE AN INTEREST
• WE MUST MAKE AN EARNEST INQUIRY
• WE MUST DILIGENTLY SEARCH THE SCRIPTURES
• HOW OFTEN AND HOW LONG SHOULD I STUDY?
• ASK SPECIFIC QUESTIONS
• EXAMINE THE WORDS
• CONTEXT
• HARMONY OF THE SCRIPTURES
• GOOD STUDY AIDS
• HOW TO APPLY WHAT WE STUDY
• SUMMARY
• SUBMISSION TO COGMA FOR APPRAISAL

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

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INTRODUCTION

This is the third Study Guide in the Study for Approval module. In it, we apply the principles learned in previous lessons. For the study of God’s Word to be productive and bring spiritual benefits, we must acknowledge these key principles:

• There Are Principles to Effective Study
• Studying God’s Word is Fruitful
• Studying God’s Word Brings Profit
• The Holy Spirit is Our Teacher
• True Teaching Always Leads to Christ
• We Must Be Alert to Truth
• We Must Have the Right Attitude

As we proceed with our studies, it is essential to have a genuine interest in God’s Word. This Study Guide works through each of these principles in depth, showing how they work together to make our study of Scripture productive and life-changing.

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WE MUST HAVE AN INTEREST

Without a genuine interest in studying God’s Word, the process can feel challenging and more like an obligation than a passion. Interest is crucial because it fuels the desire for a deeper understanding of His Word and Jesus Christ.

Knowing Jesus Through His Word

Only through the truth revealed in God’s Word can we truly come to know Jesus and His plans for our lives. James reminds us that faith without works is dead. Study is a journey to discover God’s character and our transformation into His likeness. It also reveals our purpose and how we fit into His body.

Paul’s goal was not just to gain knowledge but to know Jesus intimately:

Philippians 3:10 says:

“That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death.”

The Importance of Diligent Study

Paul also urged us to study to show ourselves approved of God:

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.”

Even near the end of his life, Paul’s eagerness to learn more about Jesus never diminished. He wrote to Timothy, saying, “bring with thee, the books, but especially the parchments.”

Avoid Studying for the Wrong Reasons

Some people study solely for knowledge and recognition, but this is like eating from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, which leads to spiritual death. We study the Word of God — the revelation of Jesus Christ — to align our lives with Him, enjoy the blessings of the Kingdom, and partake from the tree of life.

The Importance of Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness

A hunger and thirst for righteousness is essential for success. A sincere interest in knowing Jesus Christ and aligning with His will, as revealed in the Bible, leads to true success. Even though Paul received revelations of heavenly mysteries, his ultimate goal remained to know and love Jesus above all else.

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WE MUST MAKE AN EARNEST INQUIRY

To engage in effective Bible study, you need to start with questions and sincerely seek God’s answers. We must approach study with a heart that acknowledges God as the ultimate authority.

Study as a Spiritual Tool

Study is a spiritual tool that allows the Holy Spirit to enlighten our minds and guide us toward the abundant life Jesus promised. Some individuals ask questions about spiritual matters but are not genuinely seeking clear answers. They twist God’s Word to justify living below biblical standards, continuing in sin — creating a god of their own making.

Seeking Truth, Not Validation

We should never fear asking honest questions. The answers God provides from His Word are both true and transformative:

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.”

Jehoshaphat serves as an example of true inquiry, teaching us the importance of seeking truth over validation:

1 Kings 22:4–5 says:

“And he said unto Jehoshaphat, Wilt thou go with me to battle to Ramothgilead? And Jehoshaphat said to the king of Israel, I am as thou art, my people as thy people, my horses as thy horses. And Jehoshaphat said unto the king of Israel, Enquire, I pray thee, at the word of the LORD today.”

Inquiring with Honesty

The word “enquire” signifies a deep search for the truth that directs our lives. In Jehoshaphat’s case, Ahab only wanted to hear what would confirm his desires, not the truth:

1 Kings 22:6–8 says:

“Then the king of Israel gathered the prophets together, about four hundred men, and said unto them, Shall I go against Ramothgilead to battle, or shall I forbear? And they said, Go up; for the Lord shall deliver it into the hand of the king. And Jehoshaphat said, Is there not here a prophet of the LORD besides, that we might enquire of him? And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, There is yet one man, Micaiah the son of Imlah, by whom we may enquire of the LORD: but I hate him; for he doth not prophesy good concerning me, but evil. And Jehoshaphat said, Let not the king say so.”

Ahab’s error was seeking validation, not truth. True inquiry is about finding answers to the unknown, not just confirming preconceived ideas.

Dependence on Christ

John 15:5 reminds us of our total dependence on Christ:

John 15:5 says:

“I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.”

Similarly:

1 Corinthians 6:20 says:

“For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.”

Consequences of Seeking Wrong Guidance

Seeking guidance from false sources can lead to spiritual failure. Ahaziah, Ahab’s son, provides a clear example:

2 Kings 1:2 says:

“And Ahaziah fell down through a lattice in his upper chamber that was in Samaria, and was sick: and he sent messengers, and said unto them, Go, enquire of Baalzebub the god of Ekron whether I shall recover of this disease.”

God sent Elijah to confront Ahaziah for this:

2 Kings 1:16–17a says:

“Thus saith the LORD, Forasmuch as thou hast sent messengers to enquire of Baalzebub the god of Ekron, is it not because there is no God in Israel to enquire of his word? Therefore thou shalt not come down off that bed on which thou art gone up, but shalt surely die.”

Seek God First in All Decisions

God knows all and has authority over every aspect of life. We must seek Him first in all our decisions, ensuring we receive His guidance for the abundant life that Jesus promised:

Matthew 6:33 says:

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

The question remains: how many people fall into darkness because they fail to seek God first?

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WE MUST DILIGENTLY SEARCH THE SCRIPTURES

Jesus emphasised the importance of studying the Scriptures:

John 5:39 says:

“Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.”

True spiritual freedom requires effort. The truths that set us free lie beneath the surface and must be diligently uncovered. This effort reflects our hunger and thirst for understanding.

The Bible Interprets Itself

It is essential to let the Bible interpret itself. Every question can be answered within its pages, and God has a solution for every problem. Cross-references or “mates” between verses provide a fuller understanding of God’s Word, and Paul’s letters — which often reference the Old Testament — show the harmony between the two Testaments.

Avoid Taking Verses Out of Context

Taking verses out of context can lead to misinterpretation. To fully understand Jesus’ last instructions before His ascension, for example, it is crucial to study the related passages in Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24, and Acts 1. When studied together, they harmonise and give a complete picture.

Studying With God’s Guidance

Studying requires searching the Scriptures thoroughly and allowing God’s Spirit to guide us:

Isaiah 1:18 says:

“Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.”

God promises to lead us in the right way:

Isaiah 48:17 says:

“Thus saith the LORD, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go.”

The Holy Spirit Guides Us Into Truth

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in guiding us into all truth:

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.”

This guidance ensures that our study is fruitful and aligns with the truth:

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, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”

Evaluating Our Thoughts

This passage reminds us to critically evaluate our thoughts, ensuring they align with God’s truth:

2 Corinthians 10:5 says:

“Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.”

Studying the Bible requires us to ask questions, look closely, and think deeply. As we diligently search the Scriptures, we must always seek insight from God’s Spirit to guide us in understanding and truth.

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HOW OFTEN AND HOW LONG SHOULD I STUDY?

The key question to reflect on is whether there is ever a point where further study becomes unnecessary. Just as eating and drinking are essential for our physical health, continual nourishment from God’s Word and Spirit is vital for maintaining spiritual well-being. Daily study keeps our inner self strong and vibrant:

Acts 17:11 says:

“These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.”

Daily Study for Spiritual Growth

Those who made a significant impact in God’s work never ceased studying the Scriptures. Their commitment enabled God to use them more effectively. We must continually seek to learn and grow, always striving for deeper understanding.

Paul serves as a prime example of why ongoing study is crucial, even as he neared the end of his life:

2 Timothy 4:6–13 says:

“For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith… The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments.”

Despite knowing his life was coming to an end, Paul still desired to learn more, urging others to continue their study of the Scriptures.

The Dedication of Spiritual Giants

Consider William Tyndale, who translated the Bible into English. While imprisoned, his final requests included simple personal items and his Hebrew Bible. His deep commitment to Scripture stands as an example of the value he placed on God’s Word.

What kind of example does your life set? The most respected spiritual leaders always recognised the immense importance of Scripture. In difficult times, they turned even more to God’s Word for comfort and guidance:

Psalm 23:4 says:

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”

Job valued God’s Word even more than his daily bread, expressing in Job 23:12 the deep priority he placed on receiving God’s instruction above any physical need.

The Word is Life

John 1:1–3 says:

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.”

Loving Jesus means loving all of His Word. This reinforces the importance of constant engagement with Scripture, encouraging us to study daily to grow closer to Him.

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ASK SPECIFIC QUESTIONS

Effective study involves uncovering what you do not know by asking detailed questions. This approach helps to clarify and deepen your understanding of Scripture.

The Ethiopian Eunuch’s Example

Consider the example of the Ethiopian Eunuch in the book of Acts, who was reading from Isaiah and needed guidance to understand:

Acts 8:29–36 says:

“Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest? And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him. The place of the Scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth: In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth. And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man? Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same Scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.”

Asking the Right Questions

A skilled investigator uses questions like “what, where, how, and why” to dig deeper. Jesus Himself encouraged asking, seeking, and knocking as a path to discovery:

Luke 11:9–10 says:

“And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.”

The Power of Curiosity

The Eunuch’s curiosity about Isaiah 53 led him to seek who the prophecy was about, demonstrating how specific questions can open up deeper understanding in Scripture. His question — who was wounded for our transgressions and bruised for our iniquities — led directly to Philip preaching Christ.

Avoiding Preconceived Notions

Approaching God’s Word with genuine questions allows God to unveil truths to us. However, studying with a predetermined answer in mind can hinder true understanding and change. Dismissing Scripture that contradicts your beliefs, especially given that all Scripture is inspired by God, raises a serious question: what do we do with the parts of God’s Word we choose to set aside?

Why People Do Not Receive Answers

The Bible is clear about why people do not receive answers when they study:

James 4:2 says:

“Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not.”

James 4 explains that not receiving answers can result from not asking, or from asking with wrong motives. Doubt, often stemming from preconceived notions, can also prevent understanding.

The Danger of Doubt

James warns about the instability of doubt:

James 1:7–8 says:

“For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.”

The key to fruitful study is to ask earnest and specific questions without bias, allowing God’s Word to challenge and transform us.

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EXAMINE THE WORDS

Understanding each verse deeply is more beneficial than reading many chapters without gaining any insight. Proverbs and Psalms highlight the purity and significance of God’s words:

Proverbs 30:5 says:

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

Psalm 12:6 says:

“The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.”

The Importance of Careful Study

Studying involves closely examining the text, where every word matters. It is not just about reading but examining the Scriptures deeply, ensuring that each word is understood and valued.

Understanding the Language

If you are reading the King James Version, it is helpful to understand the meanings of words from the 15th and 16th centuries, when it was translated. Many words may have shifted in meaning over time, and understanding their original intent brings clarity.

The Original Hebrew and Greek

Often, the original Hebrew words in the Old Testament convey deeper meanings, especially about character and context. Therefore, using resources like Strong’s Concordance or similar tools can be invaluable in studying these words. This allows you to grasp the nuances and layers in each passage.

Study Without Bias

True study is about seeking answers to questions we do not know, without bringing preconceived notions or biases to the text. It is an open and honest inquiry that leads to genuine understanding.

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CONTEXT

Context refers to the circumstances surrounding a text that allow for its full understanding. The word “context” means having the complete picture or full story.

It is important to study verses within their context, so you can understand the full story behind them. This helps avoid taking Scripture out of context, which can lead to misinterpretation.

For example, the teachings in the Gospels and the letters in the New Testament were addressed to specific people at a specific time. Understanding who the audience was and what the circumstances were can help reveal the true meaning of the passage.

Stepping Into the Context

Brother Gil shares an important insight on this:

“What has helped me much in my study of God’s Word is to realise that when Jesus spoke to His disciples in the Gospels, He was speaking to those present then. Each one of the letters or epistles of the New Testament was written to particular congregations and people at that time. They were not written to me. I realised that the only basis of truth the Scriptures have in my life today is understanding that what was truth when Paul wrote his letters to the Corinthians is truth today. What Jesus spoke to His disciples back 2,000 years ago is truth today.”

This understanding keeps us from imposing modern biases on ancient Scripture. The truth remains the same — Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

To fully grasp the Bible’s message, it is crucial to put yourself into the shoes of those who were present when Jesus spoke or when the letters were written. Become an eyewitness and let the words of the Bible form a vivid picture in your mind.

As Brother Gil notes: “A student needs good tools to do a good job!”

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HARMONY OF THE SCRIPTURES

The word ‘harmony’ means to blend or bring things together. Just as a builder lays one brick at a time and the bricks blend together to form one wall, so too when we study the Scriptures, we gain an understanding of the blending of God’s Word.

When studying, it is crucial to avoid taking a single portion or verse of Scripture out of the Bible and building a belief solely around that. All the Scriptures harmonise from Genesis to Revelation. The truth in the book of Hebrews will be the same truth found in Genesis.

Every Scripture Has a “Mate”

As we study particular words and Scriptures, we must ensure they align with the entirety of Scripture. Not one word or verse stands alone. Every Scripture has a “mate”. If a doctrine or belief is true in one part of Scripture, it will be consistent throughout all Scripture.

As we have seen previously, it is essential that the Holy Spirit is our Teacher. He will bring the “mates” together to ensure the integrity and harmony of God’s Word in your studies:

Isaiah 28:9–10 says:

“Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little:”

This principle teaches us that truth builds upon truth, one precept upon another, creating a cohesive understanding of God’s Word.

Avoiding Dangerous Practices

To make an honest inquiry, you must diligently search for the reference Scriptures or “mates” to see the full context. Isolating verses is a dangerous practice, as it allows for misinterpretation. This was the mistake Ahab made, which led to his downfall both physically and spiritually.

For example, to fully understand the last words of Jesus before He ascended, you need to study Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24, and Acts 1. Only then will the full picture harmonise.

Reasoning Together with God

To study is to diligently search the Scriptures and allow the Spirit of God to reason and teach you:

Isaiah 1:18 says:

“Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.”

No Private Interpretation

2 Peter 1:20 says:

“Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.”

Private interpretation means separating Scripture from the rest of the Bible. Instead, we must always seek the harmony of God’s Word, ensuring that we blend and bring together all the Scriptures.

In summary, the harmony of the Scriptures is essential for proper understanding, and we must influence those around us to appreciate and study the wholeness of God’s Word.

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GOOD STUDY AIDS

Effective study aids are crucial for a diligent student of the Word. Even Paul needed such aids for his studies:

2 Timothy 4:13 says:

“The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments.”

Paul valued additional books alongside the Scriptures to aid his understanding. These resources were not ordinary books, but ones that supported his study of God’s Word.

Essential Tools for Bible Study

For a Bible student, having the right tools can significantly enhance understanding. Useful study aids include:

• A good quality dictionary
• A Bible dictionary to understand biblical usage of words in the 15th and 16th centuries
• Knowledge of English grammar to grasp metaphors, similes, and other figures of speech
• A concordance like Strong’s Concordance, which provides the Hebrew and Greek meanings of original biblical texts
• A good study Bible, such as the Thompson Chain Reference Bible or similar

Online Resources

Many of these resources are available for free:

• e-Sword: www.e-sword.net
• Olive Tree: www.olivetree.com

Treasury of Scriptural Knowledge

One of the most valuable study aids is the Treasury of Scriptural Knowledge Cross References (TSK). Developed by R. A. Torrey, this highly respected compilation of cross-references is nearly exhaustive and is extremely helpful for in-depth study. This tool has been instrumental in the preparation of preaching and teaching within COGMA.

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HOW TO APPLY WHAT WE STUDY

The greatest benefits and satisfaction from your studies come when you put into practice what you have learned. Application is the key to transforming knowledge into spiritual growth and action.

The book of Revelation encourages us not only to read and listen to God’s Word but also to live by it:

Revelation 1:3 says:

“Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.”

This verse highlights the importance of applying the truths from our studies to our own lives. By doing so, we not only enrich and enlighten ourselves but also become equipped to guide others on the same path.

The principle is clear: know the way, follow the way, and then show the way to others.

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SUMMARY

This Study Guide has worked through the essential principles that make Bible study productive and life-changing. To gain spiritual benefits from studying God’s Word, we must acknowledge and apply the following principles:

We Must Have an Interest

Without genuine interest, studying God’s Word feels like a challenge or obligation. However, interest fuels the desire for deeper understanding of His Word and Jesus Christ. Through the Bible, we come to know Jesus and His plan for us. As Paul expresses in Philippians 3:10, the goal of study is to know Christ intimately. Paul also encourages believers to study diligently, as 2 Timothy 2:15 says, to show ourselves “approved unto God.” Ultimately, study should be a pursuit of knowing and aligning with Christ.

We Must Make an Earnest Inquiry

Effective study starts with asking sincere questions and seeking God’s answers. Study is a tool through which the Holy Spirit enlightens us. We should approach study with an open heart, seeking truth rather than validation of our own beliefs. The story of Jehoshaphat in 1 Kings 22 teaches us that genuine inquiry leads to truth, while Ahab’s mistake of seeking confirmation rather than truth led to his downfall.

We Must Diligently Search the Scriptures

In John 5:39, Jesus emphasises the need to search the Scriptures. Truth lies beneath the surface, requiring effort to uncover. The Bible is its own best interpreter, and every question has an answer within its pages. Avoid isolating verses; instead, examine them in their full context and seek their “mates” throughout Scripture to gain a complete understanding.

How Often and How Long Should I Study?

Ongoing study is essential for spiritual growth. Like nourishment for the body, daily study of God’s Word is vital for keeping our inner selves strong. The Bereans in Acts 17:11 are an example of daily scripture study. Even toward the end of his life, Paul’s desire to continue studying is evident in 2 Timothy 4:6–13, where he asks for “books and parchments.”

Ask Specific Questions

Effective study involves asking detailed questions to uncover deeper truths. The Ethiopian Eunuch in Acts 8:29–36 demonstrates how asking questions leads to better understanding. Jesus encouraged asking and seeking in Luke 11:9–10, reminding us that those who seek shall find. Specific questions guide us to the answers we need from Scripture.

Examine the Words

Deep study requires closely examining each word in Scripture. Proverbs 30:5 and Psalm 12:6 stress the purity of God’s Word. Using tools like Strong’s Concordance helps uncover the original meanings of Hebrew and Greek words, enriching our understanding.

Context

Understanding the context of Scripture is crucial. Each book or letter in the Bible was written for a specific audience at a particular time, but its truth is eternal. We must become “eyewitnesses” to the original intent behind the words of the Bible, studying Scripture in its full context to avoid modern biases.

Harmony of the Scriptures

The Bible harmonises from Genesis to Revelation, with each Scripture aligning with the others. Isaiah 28:9–10 teaches us to build truth upon truth. Isolated verses can lead to dangerous misinterpretations, but when Scripture is studied in harmony, it provides a fuller, more accurate understanding of God’s Word.

Good Study Aids

Effective study aids are essential for serious Bible students. In 2 Timothy 4:13, Paul mentions needing books and parchments for his study. Helpful tools include a good dictionary, Bible concordances, and study Bibles. Free resources like e-Sword and Olive Tree are also valuable.

How to Apply What We Study

The true benefit of studying the Bible comes when we apply what we learn to our lives. Revelation 1:3 promises blessings for those who read, hear, and keep God’s Word. By applying Scripture, we enrich our lives and help guide others on their spiritual journeys.

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SUBMISSION TO COGMA FOR APPRAISAL

Instructions