Reading The Scriptures
(II Tim. 3:14-17)
Introduction: In Jesus’ teaching ministry, He emphasized the importance of the scriptures on several occasions. Let us look at three of these:
A. Jesus in the synagogue at Nazareth (Luke 4:16-21).
B. Jesus & the men on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-27).
C. Jesus & His disciples in Jerusalem (Luke 24:44-47).
D. If the scriptures were this important to Jesus, should they not be to us also? (John 8:31,32).
I. Scripture Reading Is Commended.
A. The Bereans were diligent readers (Acts 17:10-12).
II. The Use Of Scriptures Is Commended.
A. Pricilla and Aquila used them to instruct Apollos (Acts 18:24-28).
III. The Benefits Of Scripture Reading.
A. Encouragement—(Romans 15:1-4; I Cor. 10:13; I John 4:4).
IV. The Proof Of Jesus’ Resurrection.
A. Luke 24:1-7
B. I Cor. 15:1-8
V. The Scriptures Strengthen Our Faith.
A. John 20:30,31
B. Hebrews 11:1
VI. Paul’s Admonitions To Timothy.
A. I Tim. 4:12-16
B. II Tim. 2:15; 3:16,17
C. II Tim. 4:1-5
VII. How Does This Apply To Us?
A. If the scriptures were important to Jesus, Paul, etc., should they not be important to us also? Should we not be good students of them also?
Have you ever read the Bible in it entirety?1.
a. If not, a daily Bible reading program is a good way to do this.
2. Do you study seriously what you have read?
3. Do you apply it seriously to your life? (Psalm 119:105).
B. Do we live what we read in the scriptures before those with whom we come in contact? (Matt. 5:16).
Robert L. Brown
Great Oaks Church of Christ