How is the Bible Meant to be Read Today?
Asking for a Friend | Week 6
Adam Barnett explains how the Bible is meant to be read today and offers three tips to help the Bible come alive in our reading.
MESSAGE NOTES
How is the Bible Meant to be Read Today?
Asking for a Friend • February 12, 2023
Teacher: Adam Barnett
--
How is the Bible, an ancient document, meant to be read today?
Douglas Sweeney
“The Bible is the written word of God, from the eternal word of God, and hangs together on the work of the incarnate Word of God.”
STEP ONE: Research the World Behind the Text.
Exegesis: the careful, systematic study of the Scripture to discover the original, intended meaning.
2 Timothy 4:6-8 NIV
For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.
Do your best to come to me quickly. – 2 Timothy 4:9
Do your best to get here before winter. – 2 Timothy 4:21
STEP TWO: Examine the World of the Text.
Romans 12:1 NIV
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.
STEP THREE: Discern the World in Front of the Text.
We cannot apply the Bible without knowing what it means, but we can know what it means and not apply it.
John 14:21 NIV
“Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me.”