I am currently participating in BSF, I feel a great value in the effort there which I am using to supplement my own reading and study of the bible. I believe reading of God's word serves two key purposes:
1. To know God's word and to understand its meaning in an absolute (keeping in much scripture can be interpreted in many ways) sense
2. To apply God's word by trying to understand how God is speaking to you through the context of your current life experiences and life situation.
In Acts 18, I see validation that #1 above is critical.
24 Meanwhile a Jew
named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned
man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. 25 He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he spoke with great fervor and taught about Jesus accurately, though he knew only the baptism of John. 26
He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila
heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way
of God more adequately.
27
When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers and sisters
encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. When he
arrived, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed. 28 For he vigorously refuted his Jewish opponents in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Messiah.
Here I see that for #1 to be implemented in your own life, you need to share your understanding with your Christian brothers and sisters - to validate your understanding.
My Prayer: Lord, Your word is truth and it is light - and how awesome it is that you provide this to Your children. Thank You for not only the gift of Your life but Your death on the cross, Your resurrection (Holy Spirit) and Your word. Forgive me for not fully obeying Your commands as they are written and for any misinterpretation of Your words - for example, I know that I have twisted Your teachings to meet my own ends. Forgive me please Lord Jesus for this. Help me more fully know Your word, obey Your word and to more fully allow You into my life so that You can take over my life.
