Chapter 6: The Heart of an Apostle

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Why would you want to search the Scriptures yourself? You too need

to test the teachings of your church, just like the Bereans tested Paul’s teachings. Becoming knowledgeable in the Scriptures means that you will not be led astray by the errant doctrines of mankind. Many congregations are manipulated by the false teachings from the pulpit. However, your

church will not be judged as a unit before God. Instead, each individual in the church including you are responsible for his or her own sin. How do you know what is acceptable and unacceptable to God? How do you know what is sin [the activities you want to stop]? It comes from reading God’s Word.

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” 2 Tim. 3:16 KJV

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Tim. 2:15 KJV

While the King James Bible is widely used, the language is very stilted and we no longer speak the King’s English. Modern translations can present God’s Word in a more easy to understand fashion. For example, the New King James Bible presents 2 Timothy 2:15 as follows:

“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Tim. 2:15 NKJV

Depending upon your loyalty to the King James Bible, you may or may not agree that the NKJV better presents the above verse. In any case, God’s Word is clear that you need to study it. Today, it is estimated that

only 15% of those who claim to be Christians are actually students of the Bible. If you are not one of the 15%, then I must warn you that you cannot appreciate the grave danger you and your family may be involved in when it comes to Christian mythology. Without a working understanding of the

Bible, you are ignorant. Ignorance can be “bliss” on the earth, but you will have no excuses for your sin before God at the time of your judgment.