How To Read Scripture, Part 2

Approaching the Mountain

The standard cry from many who know Christ is that the Bible is just too hard to understand. “I don’t get anything out of it when I read” is the common refrain. The assumption is that I will go to church and have someone else explain the Bible to me. Though sympathy may run deep for those who make such statements, I can’t help but wonder why Scripture would command us to study what can’t be understood. First, let me note that the Bible is a profoundly deep book with many baffling statements and difficulties. As we begin studying, we find ourselves at the base of a mountain. This is where Moses was before he was given the law. I believe there is a lesson to be learned here. We, too, must begin the upward climb. The higher we ascend, the greater the vantage point to understand what lies below. The view becomes breathtaking and the ability to climb to greater heights is supported by the strength we have gained through the exercise-–precept upon precept. We are challenged intellectually, spiritually, and emotionally with every step. The journey is not easy. All who take this lifelong climb will experience the rugged terrain of “things hard to be understood,” the dense forest of “things seen darkly,” the cutting edge of a “two-edged sword,” and the guiding light of a “lamp unto my feet.” Certain skills are necessary to learn and to apply to our lives as we ascend to new elevations. Whether you are a new believer or a seasoned saint, I believe there is much here to feed upon because it is based on God’s Word. Different skill sets are needed at each level, as every new elevation broadens the view of what lies below and draws us closer to what lies above. The general purpose of this booklet is to help prepare each hiker with the necessary skill set for the climb. That's the way I see things.