1. Why Study the Bible? By Robert C. Archer

2. Why study the Bible? Because of what it is – God’s word 1 Thessalonians 2:13 13 For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe.

3. Why study the Bible? Because of what it does – Penetrates Hebrews 4:12 12 For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Some: destroy the message

4. Why study the Bible? Because of what it can do – It can purify our steps Psalm 119:9 9 How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word. – How? “By taking heed”

5. Why study the Bible? Because of what it can do – It can provide a plan for our life Psalm 119:105 105 Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.

6. Why study the Bible? Because it can help us grow – 1 Peter 2:2 2 as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby,

7. Why study the Bible? Because it can keep one from sinning – Psalm 119:11 11 Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You!

8. Why study the Bible? Because it can comfort the heart – John 14:1-3 1 "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. – 2 In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. – 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.

9. Why study the Bible? Because of the comfort that it brings – Hebrews 13:5 5 …For He Himself has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." – 1 Peter 5:7 7 casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.

10. How to start Study for your class Study with pen and paper Study chapter by chapter – Determine the key verse – Outline it Study verse by verse – Determine the context – Define the words – Make application

11. Conclusion One day we’ll be judged by it – John 12:48 48 He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him--the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day.