Bible Study: Deepening Your Relationship with God Through Scripture

The goal is not intellectual knowledge alone, but a growing personal relationship with God that results in lifestyle transformation. Ask: What does it say? What does it say to me? What will I do about it? We cannot apply what we do not know. Allow Scripture to shape your thoughts, attitudes, values, words, and actions (Ps 119:9,11; Jn 17:8,14,17). When God’s truth is embedded in the heart, it becomes the guiding force in decision-making (Deut 6:6,7; Ps 25:4,5; Rom 12:1,2).

Do I have a 'learn to grow' attitude?

As the “blueprint for life,” Scripture must be applied. “Blessed are those who hear the word of God and obey it” (Lk 11:28). Ignoring it brings consequences. James urges us to look into the Word like a mirror—seeing what is wrong and making necessary changes (Jas 1:22-25). Don’t be like the religious leaders of Jesus’ day, who knew the Scriptures but were unchanged inwardly and failed to recognize Christ.

Preaching the message is important, but living it with integrity is more powerful—many non-believers will only “read” Christ through us (2 Cor 3:2). Does your life reflect the true character of God?

Do I outwork what I learn?

While studying Scripture is valuable, eternal life is found in the Person it reveals—Jesus Christ (Jn 5:39). A growing relationship with Him is the heart of Christianity, and that knowledge must be lived out daily (Col 1:9-12). Though fellowship is beneficial, our deepest spiritual encounters happen in personal communion with God.

Its truths are life changing and powerful if applied

Journaling helps retain insights and track growth. But don’t stop at listening—act on what you learn. As James says, “Anyone who hears the word but does not do it is like someone who looks in a mirror and forgets what they look like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom and continues in it…will be blessed” (Jas 1:22-25).

1. Choose a Bible translation that suits your needs—whether simple language, study notes, or devotional insights.

2. Read regularly and aim to cover the whole Bible for a balanced spiritual diet.

3. Memorize Scripture so it governs your thoughts and actions: “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You” (Ps 119:11).

4. Use Scripture as Jesus did—to resist temptation and counter deception (Mt 4:1-11).

5. Journal your insights to deepen understanding and accountability.

6. Use commentaries, study Bibles, or a Bible atlas to enrich your understanding.

7. Join a Bible study group for encouragement and shared learning.

8. When Scripture is silent on an issue, follow its principles, guided by conscience and consideration for others (Rom 14:13-23; 1 Cor 10:23–11:1).

All teaching must be tested against Scripture to ensure it aligns with sound doctrine and the nature of God. Beware of “wolves in sheep’s clothing” who twist truth for personal gain (Mt 7:15; Act 17:11; Tit 1:11-14). Any personal revelation must never contradict biblical truth (Jn 16:13).

The truth can withstand scrutiny