Studying God’s word is one of the most important things we can do as followers of Christ. But it’s equally important why we study. If we’re not careful, our pursuit of knowledge can become more about pride, praise, or the desire to appear wise rather than a genuine desire to know God and walk in His truth.
Study to Know God, Not to Be Seen as Wise
The Pharisees in Jesus’ day had great knowledge of the Scriptures, yet their hearts were far from God. Jesus warned them:
"These people draw near to Me with their mouth, and honor Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me." – Matthew 15:8 (NKJV)
It is possible to know verses and doctrines, yet miss the heart of God. Our study must be rooted in humility and love for Him—not for a pat on the back or to “win” spiritual debates.
Paul wrote:
"Knowledge puffs up, but love edifies." – 1 Corinthians 8:1b (NKJV)
Pride in knowledge can lead to arrogance, but true love for God and His word builds up others and deepens our own walk with Him.
Study to Live by God’s Authority
Our goal is to let the word of God guide every area of our lives. That starts by being willing to submit to it. We don’t study to find loopholes or justify what we already believe—we study to know God’s will and obey it.
Paul told Timothy:
"Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." – 2 Timothy 2:15 (NKJV)
Rightly dividing the word is not about intellectual boasting—it’s about handling God’s truth with reverence and care, so we may be found faithful and approved by Him.
Study to Lead and Share with Others
God’s word equips us to lead our families and help others come to Christ. As parents, teachers, and examples to others, we must be grounded in truth.
"And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children..." – Deuteronomy 6:6–7a (NKJV)
"Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another..." – Colossians 3:16a (NKJV)
We study so that we can be prepared to guide, teach, and encourage others—not to show off what we know, but to glorify God and help others grow in Him.
Study Because We Desire God
Ultimately, we study because we love God. We want to know Him more. Just as we spend time with those we love, we spend time in God’s word because we long to draw near to Him.
"As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God." – Psalm 42:1 (NKJV)
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." – Psalm 119:105 (NKJV)
God’s word lights our path, strengthens our faith, and fills our souls. We don’t study just to fill our minds—we study to transform our lives.
What Is Our Motive?
Let us always examine our hearts when we open God’s word. May our motive not be applause or pride, but a deep longing to know the One who gave us life. May we grow in His truth, lead our homes in His way, and humbly share His gospel with the world. All to His glory—not ours.
"He must increase, but I must decrease." – John 3:30 (NKJV)