In Bible study, loving and knowing are inseparable and corresponding elements. Jesus said,
“You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (Jn. 8:32).
Bible study gives you spiritual freedom – that is, freedom from the slavery of sin and freedom from the deception of Satan (Jn. 8:34, 43-44). But for us to experience the liberating power of the Word, we must notice that Jesus connects freedom with knowledge. This kind of knowledge is intimate; it is faithful to the person whom truth comes – the Lord Jesus (Jn. 8:31). Therefore, spiritual freedom is the result of commitment to Christ. It is not enough that you read your Bible. It is not enough that you study it. There are Ph.D. theologians who labor to study the Bible in a scholarly level but ended up denying its power. The liberal theologians deny the supernatural nature of the Bible. They don’t believe in miracles and deny its divine inspiration. For them, the Bible is just another literature. Of course this is not surprising, considering that the Devil himself knows the contents of the Bible and yet twists it to deceive people (Matt. 4:6).
So when Jesus said, “You will know the truth” (Jn. 8:32), it is the result of “If you continue in my word” (Jn. 8:31). True knowledge of the Scripture is a result of intimacy or commitment to Jesus Christ. The word “continue” in verse 31 implies consistency and discipline. The constant and firm affection and attention are there. Yet it is not mere self-determination but expression of love. In other words, you continue in the words of Jesus because you love Jesus. You study His words not because you aim for academic excellence but because you love Him. The essence of Bible study is love for Jesus. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” (Jn. 14:15). Love is the root or the fountain source of liberating knowledge. Spiritual freedom happens when you are in love with Jesus. Therefore, if you want to become a good student of the Bible, love the Source of the word and you will understand His liberating word.
Devotional from "Christian PLR Products"
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