The Pastor's Study | Bradley Johnson

A Sermon Series on Ecclesiastes | Searching for Meaning, But Finding God

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 15:07:50 GMT

What is the meaning of life?

This question haunts scores of Americans as they go about their lives each day. Some people grasp for meaning in career success or sports recognition. Others diligently search for purpose in hobbies, entertainment, or wealth, while some focus on family, friends, or charity work. And yet some people completely give up on finding any real purpose for life, and they echo the words of Ecclesiastes 1:24 ; eat, drink, and be merry!

Ecclesiastes wrestles with the question of meaning for our lives. This ancient book written centuries ago rings true to our modern ears. The questions raised in this book are so contemporary that it feels as if it could have been written this year. God gave us this timeless book to challenge our faulty presumptions about life and to push us closer to Him.

This book is no easy read, yet for the believer who humbly approaches this portion of God’s word and seeks to understand this text, any hard mental work exerted will pay rich dividends. I am intimidated but excited about our study in Ecclesiastes. I’m intimidated because it is a difficult book to understand and can be confusing, but God’s desire is for us to read, understand, and apply His word to our lives ( 2 Tim 3:16-17 ). I’m excited because I know the Lord will use our study to grow us as believers and give guidance as we seek to follow Christ in a confusing world. His Word is truly a lamp to our feet and a light to our path ( Psalm 119:105 ).

Acts 28 Series | To the Ends of the Earth

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 12:42:29 GMT

Paul finally makes it to Rome.

Over the past few months, we have followed the Apostle Paul’s journey from Asia to Jerusalem and finally to Rome. Two and a half years have passed since Jesus told Paul that he would travel to Rome. Yet, persecution, arrest, and shipwreck threatened God’s promise to Paul. Through it all Paul trusted Jesus, and through all the tribulations God was faithful to keep His promise.

Jesus’ promise to Paul was based on his earlier promise to His disciples in Acts 1:8 ;

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Throughout the book of Acts, we have seen God’s fulfillment of this promise as He built His church through His disciples.

The final two sermons in Acts will clarify and summarize this theme of God’s expanding kingdom by His power through His disciples. The first sermon will cover Acts 28:1-28 in which Paul recovers from the storm and finally makes it to Rome. The thrust of this passage highlights the reality that believers will suffer for the sake of the Gospel. It also teaches us how we should embrace these trials as we share the Gospel. The second sermon will summarize Acts by covering the final two verses of chapter 28. This passage highlights the truth that even though God’s messenger may experience obstacles in ministry, His Gospel cannot be stopped. Even though Paul is still imprisoned, the book of Acts ends on a victorious note as the Gospel continues to spread. In preparation for the next two Sundays, prayerfully read over Acts 28 and consider how God works through Paul and his circumstances to fulfill His plan.

Be Inspired

Acts 27 Series | The Faithfulness of God

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 15:03:44 GMT

A Reminder to Timothy, A Reminder to Us

In his final letter before his death, the Apostle Paul reminded his protégé, Timothy, “ If we are faithless, He remains faithful (2 Tim 2:13) .” Paul knew the faithfulness of Christ by experience. Countless times throughout his ministry he witnessed the powerful hand of Jesus’ protection. Acts 27 recounts one of those experiences. The ship that carried Paul to Rome was tossed and beaten by violent storms. Several times throughout this journey the ship’s crew feared death, yet Jesus preserved Paul and eventually brought him safely to Rome.

Over the next two weeks we will learn several truths about God’s faithfulness even in the midst of life’s storms The sailing metaphor is appropriate to describe our lives, for some days are smooth sailing, while others are storm-tossed. Through this study we will see the faithfulness of God, which will encourage us to trust Him and thank Him even in the middle of a storm. Prayerfully read through Acts 27 and note the foundation of Paul’s faith and gratitude. Why was Paul able to trust God? Why was Paul able to thank God?

10 Key Bible Verses on Faith

Acts 26 Sermon Series

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 15:17:32 GMT

What Does the Old Testament Really Teach?

What does the Old Testament really teach? The first portion of the Bible we know as the Old Testament is full of history, narrative, poems, prophecy, and laws. Many OT passages are confusing, and it is difficult to see its relevance for our lives in 2024.

However, 2 Timothy 3:16-17 reminds us...

¹⁶ All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, ¹⁷ that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

If all of the Bible is beneficial for us, then it is imperative that we read and understand it properly. This is no easy task, for even the first century Jews wrestled with understanding what the Old Testament taught. This was the question before the court during the Apostle Paul’s defense in Acts 24-26. For Paul, the correct interpretation was a matter of life and death.

Over the past few weeks our study through Acts has highlighted the reality of persecution against Christians and the how to prepare for it. Throughout these chapters Paul gets several opportunities to explain the Gospel and defend his message. Acts 26 details his defense in front of King Agrippa II. In verse 3 Paul makes it clear the crux of the argument revolves around the proper understanding of the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament). Throughout his defense he argues that the Gospel of Jesus Christ is consistent with and the fulfillment of the Old Testament.

I will cover Acts 26 through 3 individual sermons, but all three of these sermons contribute to answering the question concerning what the Old Testament really teaches. In these sermons we will focus on the reality and relevance of these Old Testament promises for us today. I encourage you to prayerfully read through the passages in preparation for worship on these Sundays.

Dig Deeper

with Wiersbe's "Be Daring"

The Difference Jesus Makes

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 18:18:47 GMT

Relationship vs Religion

Near the conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount Jesus says some sobering words. “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven ( Matthew 7:21 ).” These haunting words warn us that many who think they are Christians are not truly Christians. These “Christians” are considered nominal Christians because they are Christian in name (nominal) only and are not truly born again.

Acts 19:1-7 gives an example of nominal Christians by describing the Apostle Paul’s encounter with 12 disciples who think they are Christians. This passage teaches us the danger of religion without a relationship with Jesus, and it reminds us that Jesus makes all the difference. In preparation for Sunday, prayerfully read through this passage and consider what it teaches us about genuine faith.

Dig Deeper

With a 12-Week Study on The Sermon on The Mount

Generosity | A Right Perspective

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 15:01:04 GMT

The Truth About Generosity

1 ^st Chronicles details the rise and establishment of King David as ruler over Israel. As the book comes to a close, the chronicler narrates the transition of the throne from David to his son Solomon. After experiencing military victories and bringing peace to God’s people, David wanted to bring stability to Israel’s religious life. He wanted to permanently set up the ark of God within a glorious temple (1 Chron 17), but God made it clear that Solomon was the one to build the temple.

However, God allowed David to prepare for the temple’s construction so that Solomon would have the resources needed to undertake this herculean task. As David makes the final preparations, he calls Israel to join him in freely giving to the Lord for the building of the temple ( 1 ^st Chron 29:1-9 ).

After witnessing the generosity of the people, David praises the Lord through a prayer. Our passage this Sunday examines this prayer ( 1 ^st Chron 29:10-22 ), which highlights several truths about generosity. In preparation for worship this Sunday prayerfully read through this passage as you consider:

What motivated David to praise the Lord?
Why did David consider the opportunity to give to the Lord a privilege?
What is David’s final request in this prayer?
How can this passage inform our attitude about giving?

Genius of Generosity

Lessons from a Secret Pact Between Two Friends

Advent Series Preview

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 22:05:39 GMT

The wait is almost over...

Or, if you’re like me, this year has clipped by so fast you didn’t even have time to begin waiting for Christmas. I simply looked up from my busy schedule and realized, “Christmas is here. Where did the rest of the year go?” While we are still a few weeks out from Christmas, these few weeks will pass quickly, and we will find ourselves on the other side of Christmas promising ourselves, “Next year will be different. I will take time to remember the real meaning of Christmas.”

Instead of hurrying through the remaining weeks of this year, why not take time now to slow down and honor the true meaning of Christmas, our Lord Jesus Christ? Over the next few weeks, we will take a break from the sermon series in Acts and prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ; His second coming. As we reflect on His first coming and celebrate His birth, life, death, and resurrection, we do so with our gaze toward His return. As the Scripture reminds us in Titus 2:3, we should be people who are waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.

One way you can develop this waiting attitude and worship Christ Jesus over the next few weeks is by taking time to read and reflect on the passages we will study each Sunday. At least once a week gather with your family and read through the passages and briefly discuss the meaning and application of passages before leading your family in prayer. It does not have to be formal or rigidly structured, but spending time together as a family in God’s word will shape your heart and your family in ways only God can.

After spending some time in prayer and study, I believe the Lord is leading our church family to focus on the following passages over the next few weeks. Prayerfully read over these passages.

Sunday, December 3rd

Isaiah 9:1-7
Our Hope

Sunday, December 10th

Isaiah 26:3-4
Our Peace

Sunday, December 17th

Philippians 4:4-5
Our Joy

Sunday, December 24th

John 3:16
Our Love

Sunday, December 31st

1 Thessalonians 4:13
Our Future

Reasoning From the Scriptures

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 19:44:20 GMT

Source of Strength

Acts 17:1-15 details the Apostle Paul and Silas’s continued ministry following their imprisonment and release. Instead of altering their ministry plan or message they remained steadfast to their calling. Why did they refuse to change their plans? What motivated them to remain firm in their message? How were they able to endure even amid opposition? This passage describes the source of their strength.

In preparation for Sunday, Oct. 15th read through Acts 17:1-5 and prayerfully consider the following questions:

Why did Paul reason from the Scriptures?
What truth did the Scriptures prove?
According to the passage, describe the difference between the two cities (Thessalonica and Berea).

Ministry Opposition

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 18:02:20 GMT

The Reality of Spiritual Warfare

The Apostle Paul warned Christians about the reality of spiritual warfare. "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." - Ephesians 6:12 . Throughout his ministry he had firsthand knowledge of spiritual warfare. Acts 16:16-24 details one such encounter, in which Paul and Silas are opposed in Philippi.

Read through Acts 16:16-24 and reflect on the reality of spiritual warfare asking yourself these questions.

Why was the slave girl following Paul?
Why did Paul first avoid driving out the evil spirit?
Why did God allow Paul and Silas to be falsely accused?
How should we respond to ministry opposition?

Opening the Heart

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 15:23:00 GMT

Ministry Is Not For The Faint of Heart

It does not take long serving to Lord to realize the truth of this statement. It doesn’t matter whether we are serving the Lord as a Bible Study teacher, children’s ministry worker, a part of the greeter ministry, or serving as a deacon, ministry can be exhausting. It is hard work. It is hard work because ministry is heart work. Meaning, we are dealing with people, not programs. People are our ministry.

If we are called to make disciples, how do we do this without being frustrated, burned out, or exhausted. Acts 16:11-15 details Paul’s mission to Philippi. This is a city in which he will see fruit, frustration, persecution, and spiritual growth. Tucked away in this passage are several truths about ministry which will encourage, inspire, and instruct us as we seek to be faithful to Jesus’s words, “Go, make disciples of all nations…”

Dig Deeper and Consider These Questions

Why did Paul, Silas, Timothy, and Luke go to Philippi? Whose idea was it? Hint: read the previous passage.
Who opened Lydia’s heart to the Gospel?
Why did Lydia invite Paul and company to stay at her house?
Why is evangelism and discipleship difficult?

A Closed Door

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 17:10:45 GMT

The Will of the Lord

It has been often said, “If you want to hear God laugh, then tell Him your plans.” Our plans don’t always line up with God’s plans. How should we respond when we feel God has closed the door on our plans? Acts 16:6-10 not only details the Apostle Paul’s response to the closed door, but it teaches us God’s plans are much better than ours. It reminds us that He not only casts the mission, but He sets its agenda. Prayerfully read through this passage which teaches us how to know and follow the will of God.

Trouble in Paradise

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 19:07:10 GMT

Differing Opinions Can Never Derail God's Plan

Just when everything seems to being well trouble arises out of nowhere. Acts 15 concludes with the Jerusalem church affirming Paul and Barnabus’s mission to the Gentiles and their spiritual success in Antioch (15:30-32). However, the next threat to the unity of the church arises from an unlikely source; the partnership between Paul and Barnabus. Acts 15:36-41 describes how this division rattled the discipleship program of Paul and Barnabus, yet it did not derail God’s plan. As you read this week's passage, ask yourself these questions.

Who was right in this disagreement? Is either one in the right?
Why are there disagreements between believers? Why are we slow to see our own fault in a disagreement?
How should we respond to disagreements between believers?
How did God use this disagreement to further His plan (Chapter 16)?

Getting the Gospel Right

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 21:02:09 GMT

Clashing of cultures often stirs up division.

When people from different backgrounds interact with each other, their preferences, customs, traditions, and habits can rub each other the wrong way. One culture may consider an activity acceptable, while another culture looks with disdain on a custom. For instance, the tension is often felt when northern or southern US cultures collide, or when rural neighbors meet urban neighbors. Our own local county is a melting pot of different cultures and social demographics. Even though the tension can be intense, it is nothing compared with the cultural and religious division between the first century Jews and Gentiles.

The book of Acts traces the spread of the Gospel across the Roman empire. As the saving message of Christ Jesus reached the borders of Judea, Gentile believers were welcomed into the family of God. Acts 15 is the conclusion of Paul’s first missionary journey in which he preached the gospel and established churches throughout Asia. As the Gentiles were welcomed into the church, several Jewish leaders became increasingly uncomfortable with the changing culture of the church. Therefore, the early church was forced to wrestle with the question of whether Gentiles must become Jews (through circumcision) before they became Christians. This was (and still is) a Gospel question. The pharisaical believers in Acts 15 revealed they had fundamentally misunderstood the Gospel, and they were dangerously close to legalism. So, how were they to respond to the influx of Gentile believers? What should they require of these new converts? How do they enter the family of God? Acts 15 answers these questions.

As you prepare for worship this Sunday read and pray through Acts 15:1-35 . Picking up from last week, we will resume our study in Acts 15:12-35. Begin reflecting on ways we might be tempted to deviate from the Gospel and how we should understand the relationship between the law and the Gospel. In Acts 15, God’s Word (OT) clarifies God’s thoughts on this matter. Hopefully, this passage will help us have clarity on the Gospel and avoid the dangerous trap of legalism.

What must a person do to become saved (born again)?
What customs, traditions, or preferences are we tempted to add to the Gospel?
How does correctly interpreting God’s word clarify the gospel, bring joy to the believer (15:31), and prevent us from becoming legalist.

Responding to the Gospel

Sat, 10 Jun 2023 10:57:24 GMT

What makes sharing the Gospel so difficult?

We know we are supposed to be sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with others, yet we often hesitate to talk about him. We sense a lack of courage or confusion about what to say. We’re unsure of their reaction, so we find it easier to keep quiet. In Acts 13:44-52 the Apostle Paul was given an opportunity to preach the Gospel in Antioch, Pisidia (Acts 13:14), and there were multiple responses to his ministry. Some people welcomed the Gospel and were saved. Others became jealous and opposed his ministry. Even though the Gospel was opposed God brought fruit from Paul’s sermon and prepared the new believers for opposition. Since he depended on God, Paul’s ministry also took a significant turn. This passage encourages us to remain faithful to the Gospel and leave the results to God. After reading the text, consider the following questions.

Why did the Jewish leaders oppose Paul?
Why were these believers rejoicing even in the face of opposition?
How did God use the opposition to direct Paul’s ministry?
What are ways our ministry is opposed today?

Paul's Encouraging Sermon

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 18:26:48 GMT

What is the Old Testament all about?

The Old Testament (OT) includes 39 books written by several different human authors, and it was written over a span of 1,000 years. Yet, because it has One Divine Author, its message is unified, coherent, and consistent. This is the Apostle Paul’s message to the Jewish congregation in Acts 13:13-43. In his sermon, Paul traces the message of the OT in order to demonstrate God’s faithful character and the faithlessness of His people. As you read this passage, ask yourself how Paul’s sermon can encourage and edify the weary believer (Acts 13:15).

Ministry in the Power of the Holy Spirit

Fri, 19 May 2023 22:37:18 GMT

Ministry is hard, especially when we face opposition.

However, Jesus promised his disciples that the Holy Spirit would empower them to carry out His mission ( Acts 1:8 ). In Acts 13 Barnabus and Saul (Paul) are set apart, equipped, and led by the Holy Spirit. Even when they faced opposition the Spirit worked through them to accomplish His purposes. As you read over Acts 13:1-12 ask yourself how the Holy Spirit leads you and equips you to accomplish His mission even in spite of opposition.

Her Worth is Far Above Rubies

Fri, 12 May 2023 16:24:48 GMT

Mothers are a gift from God

In His infinite wisdom the Lord has given women the high calling of motherhood. Our culture belittles this vocation by valuing professionalism over family or worldly success and promotion over nurturing children. However, the Bible details the vital role of mothers in the world, and it demonstrates that God values motherhood over society’s definition of success. The sermon this Sunday will focus on the value of motherhood (Proverbs 31:10). In preparation for Sunday, read Proverbs 31 and consider several ways mothers are precious in the eyes of the Lord.

A Church that God Blesses

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 17:49:46 GMT

God's ways are higher than ours.

Even in difficult circumstances, He works through us to accomplish His purposes. The result of persecution within the early church is described in Acts 11:19-30 and we see how God used this persecution to spread the Gospel from Jerusalem up to Asia Minor. This passage details the development of the church at Antioch, and we learn several characteristics of a church that God blesses.

According to this passage, what is the main cause of the growth within the church?
What are several characteristics of these believers which honor God?

Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 16:13:22 GMT

Called to Serve

Jesus did not come to be served, but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many ( Matt 20:28 ). Not only is He our Savior, but He is our example when it comes to serving ( Philippians 2:1-10 ). Our passage this Sunday is 1 ^st Timothy 3:8-13, in which we find the Bible qualifications for Deacons. As we approach the time for Deacon nomination and election, a study of this relevant passage will guide us as we prayerfully seek those men God has set aside to serve in this vital office. The word deacon means servant, and therefore Jesus is the greatest deacon. Those who are called to serve as Deacons are men who are following Jesus. Like Deacons, all Christians are called to serve Him through our unique giftedness. In preparation for Sunday read and pray over 1 Timothy 3:8-14 and Matthew 25:1-30.

What does this passage teach us concerning characteristics God values?
Why is it important to understand these Biblical qualifications?
What does this passage teach us about Jesus?

Standing in God's Way

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 14:56:22 GMT

Meeting Criticism with Truth

Criticism is difficult to swallow, especially when you are following God. Acts 10:1-18 recounts Peter’s interaction with a critical group of Jews. On the surface, their criticism seems legitimate. Why would a prominent leader of the church associate with sinners? Why would Peter eat and stay with those considered unclean? Thankfully, Peter was ready with an explanation. By detailing the events which led him to minister to the Gentiles, Peter teaches these Jewish believers about God and His mission. As we focus on this passage we will learn more about God and His mission. The immediate application exhorts us to line up with God’s mission and not stand in His way (hinder, withstand 11:17). Reflect on the following questions as you read the passage in preparation for Sunday

Why are people tempted to show partiality?
How can Christians be out of step with God’s mission?
What does this passage teach us about enduring criticism?

A Spirit-Led Ministry

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 15:51:05 GMT

How do you know God is working?

When Jesus spoke with Nicodemus ( John 3:1-21 ) He compared the Spirit to the wind. Like the wind, we cannot see the Spirit, but we hear (and see) the effects of His actions. While there is much confusion about the Holy Spirit, Acts 10:44-48 clarifies several characteristics of the Spirit’s work. As we study this passage this Sunday morning we will see several truths of a Spirit-led ministry. In preparation for Sunday’s sermon, read and pray over the passage asking yourself:

How did the Jewish believers know God accepted these Gentile believers?
How did these Gentile believers' lives change?
Why did they want Peter to remain with them?
How do we know God is working through us and our church?

The Problem with Partiality

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 19:00:21 GMT

God Has Spoken

Hebrews 1:1-4 tells us that God has now spoken through His Son, Jesus. In Acts 10:34-43 the apostle Peter explains this message was not meant to be limited to Israel but spread throughout the world. In this passage, we learn the content of the gospel (the what) and the recipients of the gospel (to whom). As you pray and read the passage below, ask yourself:

What is the message Peter tells Cornelius?
Why is it so important for us to share this message?
What are ways we show partiality?
How does the truth that we all approach God the same way (through Christ) influence the way we view others?

The Devoted Life

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 15:41:46 GMT

What are Four Marks of a Life Dedicated to God?

Change is hard. Most of us resist change because it makes us uncomfortable. Fortunately, even when we are afraid and unsure of change, God is changing us.

2 Cor. 5:17 reminds us: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

Throughout our study in Acts, we have seen God changing and growing the early church, and in Acts 10 God radically alters Peter’s perspective regarding the Gentiles. As we read through Acts 10 this Sunday, we will see how Peter and Cornelius embraced this worldview shift because they trusted the Lord and quickly obeyed. The exhortation for us is to be listening and trusting God’s word so that we are able to see His plan and His people from His perspective.

Join us this Sunday as we discover Four Marks of a Life Dedicated to God.

A Brand New Man

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 14:11:13 GMT

Acts 9:19-31

Experiences change us. Whether it is the birth of a baby, the death of a loved one, a career change, or a sudden medical diagnosis, life events have the potential to change and shape us personally. However, nothing will change our lives like a personal encounter with Jesus. Acts 9:1-31 describes the Apostle Paul’s encounter with the risen Jesus Christ. While we may not audibly hear and physically encounter Jesus on the Damascus Road quite like Saul (Paul), our encounter with Jesus is no less real. It is a spiritual encounter that will radically change and transform our lives. While Saul’s conversion is undoubtedly unique, some aspects are true of all conversions. This passage teaches us several true characteristics of those who have met the risen Savior. In preparation for worship on Sunday morning, read and pray over Acts 9:1-31. We will be reflecting on how Jesus changes and transforms our lives.

3 Obstacles to Daily Bible Reading

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 16:51:33 GMT

Recognize The Obstacles

Consistency is key, especially when it comes to Bible reading. Januarys are filled with high ambitions, but those ambitions seem deflated by the time we reach December. This is especially evident in the lack of enthusiasm when it comes to engaging with God’s Word. Many of us know too well the defeated feeling of our daily Bible reading commitments. Only about 32% of those who regularly attend church claim to read the Bible every day . In other words, on average, only 1 in 3 people sitting in our congregations each Sunday have personally engaged with the Bible throughout the week. 1 in 8 people surveyed admitted that they rarely or never read the Bible. While we value the honesty, these statistics do not bode well for the health of the church. This explains why many believers spiritually struggle and react to circumstances much like nonbelievers. If we know the importance and benefit of daily Bible reading, then why do many of us lack motivation and stamina to endure in this spiritual discipline? While there are several hindrances that contribute to our shrinking zeal to read the Bible, three primary obstacles stand out. The first step to any solution or remedy is diagnosis, so recognizing these obstacles puts us on track to refreshed Bible reading.

Distraction

The overwhelming obstacle for accomplishing anything worthwhile is distraction. There is little debate that our culture is a distracted society. Our focus flits from screen to screen as images and videos shorten our attention span. The sheer busyness of life intensifies distraction to a point where we wonder where in the day could we find five minutes to read our Bibles.

Our lives are a modern-day example of Jesus’s parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:1-18). In this parable the same seed is sown in four different types of soil. Jesus describes the third type of soil by saying, “Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them.” He further explained this, “As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful (Matt 13:22).” The cares of this life, which may even be good cares, distracts us from focusing on what truly matters.

Busyness makes us forget our priorities. Have you ever been so busy that you forgot to eat a meal? If you’re like me then you hardly miss a meal, but there have been days in which I was so busy running here and there, that I was well into the afternoon before I realized I had skipped lunch. By this point my blood sugar dropped, and I needed a quick snack to get me through until supper. When it comes to our spiritual lives the tell-tell sign that we have skipped a spiritual meal manifests itself as anxiety, frustration, or impatience. When our lives produce the ungodly fruit of anxiety, impatience, jealousy or even lust we should recognize the signal, much like our low blood sugar level or physical exhaustion, that we need the Lord to refresh our souls with His word. Realizing this clarifies the meaning of the phrase man does not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord (Deut. 8:3, Matt 4:4).

Just like we must set aside time to eat a meal, we must see the importance of consuming spiritually nutritious food and set aside time to consume God’s word. This takes time and commitment, but it prevents us from allowing ourselves to be caught up in sin, disastrous passions, or foolish thoughts (Ps. 19:13). It also prepares us for the circumstances we face from day to day (Matt 7:828-683-3178. Any effort exerted in Bible reading is richly rewarded by the good it does our souls.

Confusion

A second hindrance to consistent Bible reading is our lack of understanding and knowledge. The Bible is a big book with large sections of history, genealogies, nations, people and places. It is an ancient book which describes cultures and places distanced from us by thousands of years and miles. What is the purpose of all those rituals in Leviticus? What is happening in Ezekiel? Who is Hezekiah? What is the purpose of miracles and tongues in Acts? How can we possibly understand Revelation?

When we feel confused and have little idea of what is happening in a passage, we lose interest in its meaning. We don’t understand the point of the passage, much less how it applies to our life. And when we don’t see its relevance, we lose interest in reading it. However, the first thing to remember is that clarity will never come if we don’t read it. Just tossing our hands up in the air and throwing in the towel will not yield spiritual insight. Secondly, understand that the Bible is a large book inspired by an infinite God. Therefore, there are going to be portions that we don’t understand and other portions that will take us years to grasp the meaning. But this doesn’t mean it is not worth the effort. The Bible is God’s word written to us, and therefore, it is His desire that we understand and apply it to our lives. 2 ^nd Timothy 3:16 reminds us, All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

Understanding comes as we pray and meditate over Scripture, allowing the Holy Spirit to illuminate relevant portions and applications to our life. Reading historical background and remembering literary context helps to fill in gaps we may not understand. For instance, understanding the scriptural exceptions described in Leviticus 12 helps us understand why Mary and Joseph took two doves to the temple instead of a lamb (Luke 2:828-683-3178. This communicates to us that they were familiar with poverty, and therefore, Jesus identified with the lowest of society. Also, understanding the role of braided hair in 1 ^st century Palestine might shed some insight to Peter’s admonition in 1 Peter Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious. It does not mean that we should avoid braided hair today, but instead we should avoid what the braided hair represented in Peter’s culture. These are but two examples of how understanding contextual clues can aide in Scriptural understanding.

It is also important to understand that the Bible was written by many different human authors but inspired by one Divine author. All genres, from narrative, to prophecy, to discourse form one coherent message. Noticing the framework and large overarching narrative helps us to understand how the individual narratives and discourses contribute to the overarching message. If you don’t understand certain portions of the Bible, keep reading (and rereading) and details will eventually fall into place.

Boredom

A corollary to confusion is boredom. We don’t find the Bible exciting. When we don’t find it interesting to read we lose motivation to slog through the hardest portions of the Bible. However, most of time when we are bored with the Bible, it is because we really haven’t put forth much effort to understand it. The Bible is filled with stories of hope, miracles, romance, loyalty, evil, scheming, anxiety, lying, adultery, justice, robbery, and surprises. It is hardly a predicable plot. There is no drama that can compare to the suspense found in the Scripture. Truth is stranger than fiction.

If you find yourself bored with the Bible, then set aside some time to read through several of the shorter narratives, trusting that these exciting narratives will inform and shape how we live our lives. The rich romance story of Ruth teaches us virtue and honor, but more importantly it teaches us about our Savior and His redeeming love. The story of David shows us what God values and how to respond when we are oppressed. The descriptions of Peter teach us that God uses those whom the world discredits. This is not to mention other characters such as the woman at the well, the widow who gave her mite, or Epaphroditus. The Bible is filled with enough exhilarating content to keep our minds engaged for a thousand lifetimes.

The Remedy

The good news is that these obstacles are easy to overcome. The first step is to have a plan. If you don’t have a plan, then your plan is to do whatever you feel like doing. This is a frustrating and fleeting way to live, much less read the Bible. You will not always feel like reading the Bible, but if you have a plan then you will know right where to start when you don’t feel like reading, and you will not waste mental energy deciding what to read. While there are many good Bible reading plans available, the best plan is one that is simple and realistic. You might want to read the entire Bible this year, but if you are new to consistent Bible reading then it might be better to start with a smaller goal, like reading the New Testament, and then move to a larger goal. If you want to run a marathon, you should probably start by training for a 5K race. Just picking a short book like James, Philippians, or Ruth is a great place to start. You can also read through the passages your pastor is preaching on each week.

I also recommend keeping a journal or writing notes in your Bible. You will stumble across questions and jotting them down helps you understand the issues at play. Also, jotting down what God is teaching you in each reading will help you remember it later when you have forgotten what you read.

Another key to motivation is to keep the goal before you. Your goal in reading the Bible is to know the Lord, to enrich your relationship with Him, but also to allow His word to shape your life into the image of Christ. You may not be a history buff, but Bible study is not about being a historian. You are not trying to win at Bible trivia. Just because you know who buried Moses (Ex. 34:6, Jude 1:9) does not mean you know the God of the Bible. You are not seeking to master the Bible, but you’re seeking to be mastered by the Bible. James’s exhortation calls out to us, But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves (James 1:22). Remember, your goal is spiritual health as a disciple of Christ.

Another help is to read and study the Bible with others. Ironically, there are some Lone Ranger Christians, who believe it is just about themselves and Jesus. The New Testament is clear that God expects us to be involved with a community of believers, which He calls the church. Yes, the church is not perfect, but neither are we, and we should fit right in with other believers who are ready to forgive and be forgiven. Our role is to spur one another on toward love and good works (Hebrews 10:24; 1 ^st John 3:11). Consistently studying the passages from sermons we hear and speaking to others about what God is teaching us will aide in our understanding. There have been many times God has used other believers to illuminate my understanding of certain passages. Actively participating in Sunday School (Bible Study) classes will provide us opportunities to wrestle with and apply Scripture to our lives. Studying the Bible in isolation is not only prideful but can lead to heretical beliefs. Most cults were started by individuals who thought they had “a special word from the Lord.” Fortunately, God gives us each other to help keep us rightly dividing the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15).

Once you have a plan, understand the goal, and humbly discuss your Bible reading with others you should begin to make headway in your devotional life. Like any habit or discipline it gets easier as time goes along, but we must always fight the danger of finding ourselves in a spiritual rut. Weave your prayer life with your Bible reading and expect that God’s desire for you is to understand and know His word.

Pastor Bradley Johnson