Why Studying God’s Word With Others Is Important
Most of us are already aware that studying the Bible on our own is foundational to the Christian life. But do you know how important it is to do it together? If starting or joining a small group Bible study sounds like an unnecessary commitment to you, here are some benefits you may wish to consider:
- It follows Jesus’ example
As believers, we all seek to follow Jesus’ example in all things. Although Jesus often preached to large crowds, he also chose to empower and prepare his followers for ministry in a small group setting. The early light of the word church continued with this discipleship model; Acts 2:42 indicates that first-generation believers met in homes and “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship.”
- It directs us in wisdom
The Bible is a roadmap for life! It contains ‘everything we need for life and godliness.’ Yet just as sometimes we need someone to help us read a map, we benefit from others’ experience of digging deep into the daily word of god. It is possible that they may have found gems of wisdom that we have not even yet discovered. You can also offer insights that they have not yet learned. This is the actual beauty of journeying through the Bible together.
- It creates meaningful connections
Humans were not designed to be alone. We were all made to be dependent on God first, but also on one another. In an increasingly digital world, where interactions on social media may be superficial and may also increase feelings of isolation- the small group Bible study offers a powerful means of forging deep and life-giving connections along with today’s daily word with other believers.
- It provides the necessary encouragement
The group study context also helps to provide a safe space for members to share their struggles. Witnessing the faith of another believer in the Christian daily word encourages all of us to keep going even when things get tough; provides us with the opportunity to comfort those in trouble ‘with the comfort that we ourselves have received from God; and also enriches us as we hear how God has strengthened, guided and directed others throughout their lives.
- It holds us accountable
Small groups tend to offer the optimal environment for meaningful belief and behaviour change. Each and every believer needs others to help them understand biblical truth and how to apply it. All of us need our knowledge sharpened, blind spots in our thinking corrected, and resistance to changes in our behaviour challenged. We tend to mature much more quickly in our faith when we are able to ask one another questions like, ‘What steps are you taking to change that?’ and, ‘How did that go for you this week?’ Accountability happens to lead to a more fruitful application of truth.
