“Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me”.–John 5:39
Of all the advice ever given by Jesus, or anyone else, it doesn’t get any better than this. Searching the Scriptures is the wisest thing you can do. This is exactly what the Bereans did—“they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily”(Acts 17:11). We should do the same! There we find the answers to life’s most important questions, promises the are exceeding great and precious, instructions that are flawless, and comfort that is sufficient.
We keep debating issues and wrestling with problems that could have been settled long ago had we simply searched the Scriptures and let God’s Word determine the conclusion. Sadly, instead of doing that, many–
–skip the Scriptures, as though they have more important things to do.
–skim the Scriptures, as though some parts aren’t important.
–slight the Scriptures as though they are of no value.
–substitute the Scriptures, as though something else is better.
–scorn the Scriptures, as though they aren’t worthy of consideration.
–select portions and ignore the rest, as though it was cafeteria style.
–suppress the Scriptures, rather than submit to them.
But, Christ tells us to “Search the Scriptures”. The word “search” signifies a close, careful, curious search. We should search as a miner digs for gold, as a hunter searches for game, etc. We ought to search the Scriptures as though our very lives depended on it. The reasons for such a search are numerous. The responsibility to search is clear. The results of such a search are glorious. In the Scriptures we find a treasure, due to its theme, which is Christ; theology, describing the glorious attributes of God; truth, without any admixture of error; topics, dealing with everything of practical value; transforming power, as it provides, protects and prepares us; and timelessness, as it is relevant to all generations.Don’t let another day pass without spending quality time in the Bible. Search its wonders. Seek its wisdom. Store its words. Submit to its will. Share it with the world. — HDS, 9/4/14
