Like the Power of the Word, Searching the Scriptures becomes a normal part of the everyday existence for an abiding disciple. The joy of God's promises, laws and principles are achieved through faithfulness in searching the scriptures. The Bible becomes the Wick for the Light we shed. It is our food.1
The principle in Acts 17:11 is at least three sided.2 First, it is to receive the Word with eagerness. This is a decision in obedience. To desire the search causes the Spirit controlled mind to become eager.
Secondly, the disciple examined Scripture daily. Regulated consumption of the Word of God is as necessary as our daily physical food intake. God provides both. Jesus said, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every Word that proceeds form the mouth of God".3
Finally, the disciple examined the Scriptures to see if these things were so. All ideas, sermons, lectures, and books should be judged against the truth and inspiration of God's Holy Word. Disciples search for answers by Bible standards. They also search for errors.
There are many tools and aids for searching by competent and qualified writers. Using lexicons and dictionaries can make language studies more effective. In depth studies of words and verses can be done to expand understanding. Subject and topical studies have been produced. Concordances of every word and find to find them are available by several authors. Various Bible encyclopedias can be useful. Reference Bibles and Study Bibles of many kinds are on the market and easy to use. Maps, customs, habits and thousands of other subjects are included in Bible Handbooks. Various excellent software programs are available for the computer use. The interested and serious student should contact a more experienced student before buying expensive tools and aids for study. Whatever we use, we should ever remember the words of our Lord Jesus, "Abide in My Word".
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The basic rule of searching the Scriptures is found in 1 Corinthians 2:11-16.5 The Holy Spirit of God searches the things of God. The Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who possess the Spirit, teaches the spiritual man. The unspiritual man does not receive the gifts of the Spirit of God.6 The principle is here is to search the Scripture with the Scripture by Prayer and guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Additional Scripture References:
2 Timothy 3:16, 2 Timothy 2:15
2 Peter 1:20-21
Romans 15:4
Hebrews 5:12
Titus 1:9
John 1:1
1. Jeremiah 15:16
2. Acts 17:11
3. Matthew 4:4
4. John 8:31
5. 1 Corinthians 2:11-16
6. 1 Corinthians 2:13-14
