In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. ... 14The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. ... John 1:1,14 NIV

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 17God uses [His Word] to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 NLT

What Is the Word of God?

•        A sword that pierces. Hebrews 4:12

•        A light that shines. Psalm 119:105

•        A mirror that reveals. James 1:23

•        A path to purity. Psalm 119:9

•        A meal that nourishes. 1 Timothy 4:6

•        A seed that reproduces. 1 Peter 1:23

•        A fire that consumes. Jeremiah 23:29

•        A defense against temptation. Psalm 119:11

•        The source of our faith. Romans 10:17

•        The truth that lives forever. Isaiah 40:8 

The Bible is meant to transform us, not just inform us.

… while knowledge makes us feel important, it is love that strengthens the church. 1 Corinthians 8:1 NLT

“The Bible should give us a bigger heart, not a bigger head.”

—Rick Warren

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. James 1:22 NIV

How to Study the Bible

1.      Choose a translation you understand.

2.      Choose a time, a place, and a plan to study.

3.      Understand the context.

4.      Read slowly and ask questions.

5.      Pray for God to speak to you, and apply what He shows you.

How to Study the Bible

1.      Choose a translation you understand.

2.      Choose a time, a place, and a plan to study.

3.      Understand the context.

4.      Read slowly and ask questions.

5.      Pray for God to speak to you, and apply what He shows you.

Who wrote it?

To whom was it written?

What was the purpose?

I am sending [Onesimus]—who is my very heart—back to you. 13I would have liked to keep him with me so that he could take your place in helping me while I am in chains for the gospel. 14But I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that any favor you do would not seem forced but would be voluntary. 15Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back forever— 16no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother. He is very dear to me but even dearer to you, both as a fellow man and as a brother in the Lord.

Philemon 1:12-16 NIV

If [Onesimus] has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me. 19I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand. I will pay it back—not to mention that you owe me your very self.

Philemon 1:18-19 NIV

Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering … 5But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. Isaiah 53:4-5 NIV

Which person do you relate to most?

•        Paul, who’s taking a risk on someone.

•        Onesimus, who needs forgiveness.

•        Philemon, who’s being called to forgive.

If we confess our sins, [God] is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 NIV

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32 NIV