Christians and Bible Study?

I am wondering how many Christians actually study the bible? How many of you have read it cover to cover? Of the people who have read the whole bible, how many of you still believe it?





I was raised in the church and I don't know of many Christians who have read it all the way through so be honest! If a lot of people on here say they have read it all the way through, every verse on every page, I know you are lying.





I stopped believing the Bible after I read most of it. I still have not read every book though, but I read the Old Testament and about half of the New, and I just couldn't believe it any more.

Christians and Bible Study?
I read it all the way through, and I still believe.
Reply:Yes many christians study the bible, the trick is to understand the bible. I used to read it when I was a teenager and did not get real understanding from it. Many years later I came into contact with my present place of worship which I am very satisfied with, the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses. One of the things that is so special about our worship is that we constantly study the bible. We have meetings several times a week and on Sunday. We use what we learn to help other people to understand what they read and offer them free bible studies as well. Jehovah's Witnesses are known as bible students. We do not claim to be divinely inspired but follow the bible which we accept as being inspired by God and follow its teachings. A careful comparison of the bible scriptures is done so as to get the true meaning from the scriptures. This insures us that it is not mans interpretation but that of the bible. The bible in itself was written over a period of years by different individuals who were inspired by God. If you take a progressive study you see how each book of the bible backs up another even though they were written many years apart. Then you can get true understanding of the topic and build up your faith. The bible is one of the greatest history books in the world and is very interesting. There is a progressive way to read the bible totally in one year.


Remember the Ethiopian Eunuch that was riding in a chariot reading Isaiah out loud and Philip ran along side of him and stated the verse below:


Acts 8:30 30 Philip ran alongside and heard him reading aloud Isaiah the prophet, and he said: “Do you actually know what you are reading?”


In reply the Eunuch stated:





Acts 8:31


31 He said: “Really, how could I ever do so, unless someone guided me?”





The bible instructs us to search for knowledge as for silver or as for gold, and if we had a treasure in our back yard we would not stop digging untill we found it. Perhaps you could try doing a study with someone by contacting the local Kingdom Hall, there is no charge. Since your very life depends on taking in this knowledge it would be worth your effort to check our every avenue. Pray for God's holy spirit and wisdom to guide you in all things for it is with spirit and truth we must worship. I hope that you find the desire to study again so that you will understand what God has done in the past and why and what he is going to do in the future. Knowing him now makes your life better. Good Luck!


Ihttp://www.watchtower.org/e/t13/article_...


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Reply:I am currently in Luke reading straight through- I have read most of the New Testament and all of the Old Testament, and I have read many scriptures in both, but not straight through as I am doing that now. I do love bible study. Right now the one I was in is ending so I have to wait for the next one- We were learning about the Tabernacle and it was awesome! It amazes me how the word of God has so much truth- and how when you are reading certain scriptures there are many others throughout the Bible that support that one scripture- And how much God has shown us in the Old Testament of Jesus coming- and then when Jesus came, how he fufilled the scriptures. God is awesome and I LOVE studying His word- But remember it is the Holy Spirit who teaches us- so when you are seeking the LORD and for HIS teaching instead of what you want to get out of it- that is when you see the truth of God's word. I have also done an in depth study of Revelations which was awesome~





As it says in Proverbs- Do not lean on your own understanding but in all your ways acknowledge HIM and He will make your paths straight-
Reply:I have read the entire Bible, every verse and every page. I read the Bible every day and study it about 5 to 7 days of the week; sometimes more, sometimes less. I believe each and every word is true.





I'm not sure what else there is to say, except I wish you peace.
Reply:I study the Bible but haven't read all of it. I can't tell you what chapter and verse says what, but the message is clear.





As a Christian and religious academic, I feel your pain. It's hard to discern what to believe, when you're sitting in class going "the Bible says WHAT!!?!?" Remember that there is much archaeological evidence for the Bible's truth. David and Pilate were real, there's a stone talking about King David carved by a Syrian King, and a stone found in Cesarea mentioning Pilate. They were REAL. And the Dead Sea Scrolls match perfectly the scripture we read today, and they were written at least 2,000 years ago. Josephus (ancient historian of the time) mentions Jesus and his life and teachings. They were REAL. I hope that helps!
Reply:I have read it through many times.... sure, some parts, like the geneologies, aren't read as carefully as other parts, but I assure I have read it all many times.





What part did you read that made you stop believing? e-mail me!!
Reply:Good for you!!!


Sounds like you've covered all the bases!


Step right this way. Welcome to hell. There's still plenty of room.
Reply:Jehovah's Witnesses have a regular program of Bible reading and study. We continually study the entire Bible over about a four year period, from Genesis to Revelation. We just finished the book of Proverbs (again) and are this week beginning again in the book of Ecclesiastes.





As ministers, we have to be able to handle "the word of God aright" or "rightly divide" it as KJV says.- 2 Timothy 2:15





I believe the Bible because of the many amazing prophecies and so forth, especially in the books of Daniel and Isaiah. (We have studied these more extensively in our smaller study groups.)
Reply:You need to read more than the Bible to understand it: you also need to understand the cultures and literatures of the times in which it was written. If we don't take all of that into account, then it can be a real turn-off.
Reply:I read the Latin Vulgate Douay Rheims Bible, which has 7 books that were removed from the later edition of some Protestant Bibles (KJV)





I'm reading it completely for the 3rd time.





Each time I learn something new. It is food for the soul.











Epistle Of Saint Paul To The Ephesians


Chapter 6





10 Finally, brethren, be strengthened in the Lord, and in the might of his power.


11 Put you on the armour of God, that you may be able to stand against the deceits of the devil.


12 For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood; but against principalities and power, against the rulers of the world of this darkness, against the spirits of wickedness in the high places.


13 Therefore take unto you the armour of God, that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and to stand in all things perfect.


14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of justice,


15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace:




















Lectio Divina is Latin for “spiritual reading” and represents an early monastic technique of prayer which continues in practice though less widely, intended to achieve communion with God as well as providing special spiritual insights and peace from that experience. It is a way of praying with Scripture that calls one to study, ponder, listen and, finally, pray from God's Word.





History


Lectio Divina was first expressed in the year 220 AD. It was found that to read the Bible profitably it is necessary to do so with attention, consistency and prayer. The systematization of “spiritual reading” into four steps dates back to the 12th century. Around 1150, Guigo II, a Carthusian monk, wrote a book entitled “The Monk’s Ladder” (Scala Claustralium) wherein he set out the theory of the four rungs: reading, meditation, prayer and contemplation. In 2005, Pope Benedict XVI stated, “This is the ladder by which the monks ascend from earth to heaven.”





Method


Lectio is typically practiced daily for one continuous hour. A selection from the Holy Scriptures is chosen ahead of time, often as a daily progression through a particular book of the Bible.





Time


Selecting a time for lectio divina is important. Typical methods are to pray for one hour in the morning, or to divide it into two half-hour periods, one in the morning and one in the evening. The key is to pre-select the time that will be devoted to the prayer, and to keep it. Using the same time every day leads to a daily habit of prayer that becomes highly effective.





Place


The place for prayer is to be free from distractions. This means it should be isolated from other people, telephones, visual distractions, etc. Some find a religious icon to be helpful. The same place should be used for lectio if possible, especially as one first begins to practice it. Familiarity with a location reduces the possibility of distraction away from the prayer. Some practitioners conduct other devotions, such as praying before the Catholic Eucharist, as a preparation for Lectio Divina.





Preparation


Prior to reading, it is important to engage in a transitional activity that takes one from the normal state of mind to a more contemplative and prayerful state. A few moments of deep, regular breathing and a short prayer inviting the Holy Spirit to guide the prayer time helps to set the tone and improve the effectiveness of the lectio.





Once the stage is set it is time to begin the prayer. There are four phases of the prayer, which do not necessarily progress in an ordered fashion. One may move between different phases of the prayer very freely as the Spirit guides.





The Four Moments


Lectio


Read the passage several times.





Meditatio


Reflect on the text of the passage, thinking about how to apply to one's own life. Gravitate to any particular phrase or word that seems to be of particular import. This should not be confused with exegesis, but is a very personal reading of the Scripture and application to one's own life.





Oratio


Respond to the passage by opening the heart to God. This is not primarily an intellectual exercise, but more of the beginning of a conversation with God.





Contemplatio


Listen to God. This is a freeing oneself from one's own thoughts, both mundane and holy. It is about hearing God talk to us. Opening our mind, heart and soul to the influence of God. Any conversation must allow for both sides to communicate, and this most unfamiliar act is allowing oneself to be open to hearing God speak.
Reply:You brought an interesting question regarding, 'how many Christians actually study the Bible?', and 'many of you have read it cover to cover?' But yet you only 'read most of it' and ' still have not read every book though'. Would it help YOU or any one to benefit from what is being read to fully grasp what the Bible is speakink of, if we do not read it cover to cover?





Honestly, I read the Bible every year. Even in our congregations, conducted worldwide in 235 lands, one of our meetings is schedule to read the Bible every week for a year, and then that process it repeated the following year. At those congregation meetings the Bible is studied when the assigned reading is assign to us. After a while you become familiarise with the entire Bible.


Jehovah Witnesses really believe that the Bible is God’s Word and that what it contains is there for our instruction. (2 Tim. 3:16, 17; Rom. 15:4; 1 Cor. 10:11) So they do not resort to philosophical arguments to evade its clear statements of truth or to justify the way of life of people who have abandoned its moral standards.





Help in Understanding the Bible, perhaps you have tried to read the Bible but found it hard to understand. Maybe you do not know where to look in the Bible to find answers to your questions. If so, you are not alone. All of us need help in understanding God’s Word. Jehovah’s Witnesses, in some 235 lands, provide free Bible instruction to millions of people. They would be happy to help you too.


Usually it is best to study the Bible progressively, beginning with basic teachings. (Hebrews 6:1) As you continue, you will be better able to take in “solid food”—that is, deeper truths. (Hebrews 5:14) The Bible is the authority. Bible-based publications, such as the book What Does the Bible Really teaches?, will help you to understand Scriptural references on a variety of subjects.





Are You Willing to Spend Time Each Week to Understand the Bible?


A Bible study can usually be arranged at a time and place convenient to you. Many study in the privacy of their own home. Some even study over the telephone. The study program is, not a class with many people, but a private arrangement tailored to your personal circumstances, including your level of knowledge and education. There are no examinations, and you will not be made to feel embarrassed. Your Bible questions will be answered, and you will learn how to draw close to God.





You do not have to pay for such a Bible study. (Matthew 10:8) It is offered free of charge to people of all religions and to those who practice no religion but who are sincerely interested in increasing their knowledge of God’s Word. Who can share in the discussion? Your entire family. Any friends that you choose to invite may also share. Or if you prefer, the discussion can be held with just you.


I invite you to contact Jehovah’s Witnesses. One way you can do this is by contacting the nearest congregation near you or veiw your telephone listing. Arrangements will then be made for someone to conduct a free home Bible study with you.


Many set aside an hour each week to study the Bible. If you are able to spend more time or are limited to less time each week, the Witnesses will make themselves available to help you.
Reply:1 Cor. 2:14


But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
Reply:...I have read it all way through, and have been involved in several Bible studies.


...The Bible will be of little interest to you if you do not know the Author. Have you ever trusted Jesus Christ as your personal savior? After I did, I had a deep interest in getting to know God better and His word made sense to me.


...If you are a Christian, you will stunt your spiritual growth if you do not spend time in God's Word. The Bible is real "soul food".


...In Romans 10:17 we read, "So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ." When we read the Scriptures it builds our faith.


...I do wish you a blessed eternity, and strongly urge you to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and be saved (Acts 16:31), if you never have.


...Whosoever will, may come.
Reply:I have read it about a dozen times and still believe it.
Reply:I have read the Word of God cover to cover and I believe in it fully, it is Truth and there is no other.
Reply:I did read it through, well, I must admit I skimmed through a lot of the heartiage parts, but I did read the Bible. I had a calender that gave 4 different sections to read a day until you eventually read the whole Bible. It took me a year. I have read certain books several different times. A lot of what I read was boring, and some was even scary. But most was very interesting and inspiring, especially the New Testament.





I used to attend a women's Bible study every week. They has since changed the meeting time of which is not convenient for me any more so I do not attend that one anymore. I do attend Sunday school which is basically a Bible lesson after Church every Sunday.





I am sorry you are not a believer anymore and I wish you the best in what ever road you travel on.
Reply:i understand what u mean. But the old testament took place before Jesus was born and came to the Earth to save us. The New Testament is what u really should read. I suggest getting, "The Bible Experience", it's the whole New Testament played by actors such as Denzel and others. Also purchase a new living translations bible and follow the CD to help understand it. Then you can read the old testament





Just go to this link below:





http://www.amazon.com/Inspired-Bible-Exp...
Reply:i have been in jail before, with nothing but time and yes i have read the Bible cover to cover and i am still studying. each time i read i see it apply to this world yes the Bible said there would be days like these, i will pray for you to. And my crime i was in jail for was not against any man but my self.
Reply:I've read it cover to cover five times (three different translations). I have read it in chronological order once. I continue to read it and meditate upon it daily. Every time I read it, I realize there's more for me to learn and it strengthens my faith and my personal relationship with Jehovah every day.





I believe it. I don't know how someone can say that God is their "best friend" or that they have a personal relationship with him if they don't take the time or make the effort to hear from him every day.
Reply:Don't lose heart because of the weak majority. The Bible as we have it today may not be infallible as a literary text, but the message conveyed by its words is indeed absolute and true.





Personally, I read Scripture daily and I treasure my walk with YHWH. There are those that laugh at me and think me daff for believing in such things, and perhaps you may be leaning towards that direction, but faith is placing your trust is what is not readily tangible. Some believe there is no god, while other say that there are many gods. As for me, I believe in YHWH, and that he sent himself in the form of a man to die as the ultimate sin sacrifice for mankind. If I am wrong in my belief, then at least I have lived a culturally and spiritually rich life of peace, love, and discipline---that much will be remembered by my children and their children after them.