If you ‘re swimming in the academic waters of Biblical Studies all day, every day, it’s good to have a reminder of what the Bible was written for. I think that for too many, the means become the ends. Desire for ministry becomes replaced by desire for expertise. A. W. Pink has a wise word of warning:
Our motive when approaching the Word, should be to seek that which will subdue pride and bring us as supplicants to the footstool of Mercy–not to acquire that which will puff us up in our own conceit. Of what value is a knowledge of the original Hebrew and Greek–or a thorough acquaintance with the history, geography, and chronology of the Bible–if the heart is left cold and hard toward its Author!
I seriously doubt if God has called or requires us, merely to’study ‘ His Word. What we need to do, is FEED thereon. How much nourishment would your body derive from a study of the chemical properties of foods–or from seeking to ascertain the various sorts of soil in which they are grown–or the meaning of their Latin names? None whatever! And I am persuaded that much of the modern’study of the Bible ‘ is equally profitless spiritually!
From GraceGems
Thanks for this, Todd.
Todd,
I think the quote is great. This is something I have thought a lot about recently. I’m not sure the title is broad enough, though. I think “For Believers” is more appropriate. This is such an important point for all of us who read the Bible, teach the Bible, pray, are involved in ministry, etc. If I read my Bible every morning just so that I can say that I’ve done my “daily devotions,” then I’ve lost it; just as much as if I study the Bible academically or teach it professionally because I want to look smart or become smarter.
Thanks for the reminder.