Week 2: The BIBLE - Basic Christianity Course

The Greatest Love Story

John 1:1-14

Author: John, the Disciple

Note: The Word and Truth were there from the beginning.

Study Questions

• What was John the Baptist's role?
• What is the role of Jesus?
• What surprises you about Jesus coming to earth as a human being?
• What is comforting and encouraging about God taking on a human form?

How do we study the Word (Bible)?

• Pray ask the Holy Spirit to help you understand what you read and to know how to apply it to your life.
• Find a quiet place free of distractions.
• Have your notebook and pen.
• Take small bites; read a portion (a few verses) and then ask some questions:
  • What is this saying about God, Jesus, or the Holy Spirit?
  • Is there a command for me to obey?
  • Is there a principle for me to live by or a spiritual truth for me to know?
  • Is this saying something for me right now?
  • How can I apply this to my everyday life?

Why should you read the Bible?

Earthly things do not satisfy the heart. The Bible is the Book of the heart. It shows us how we may possess and enjoy real life. A worthwhile life and satisfaction in life are found by reading and receiving the Word of Life into our hearts. (John 6:63)

1. It is God’s message to you.
2. It is totally reliable, without error.
3. God does not change, and you need it for life. (Matthew 4:4)
4. It is a measuring stick for you to determine truth from error.
5. It will equip you for serving God. (Psalm 32:8)
6. You can learn from Biblical characters how to live and act.
7. It will bring real hope and peace to your life. (Romans 15:4)
8. The enemy of your soul does not want you to be a person of the Word.
9. As a child of God, you should keep up on all the blessings your Heavenly Father desires for all His Children. (There are 7,000 promises throughout the Bible!)
10. The Word of God is powerful and is our spiritual weapon. (Ephesians 6:10-18)

Examples of Bible Translations

• New International Version
• King James
• New King James
• The Message
• New Living
• Amplified
• New American Standard
• New Century

Also useful in your study

Bible Dictionary: These explain the meaning of words, places and subjects of the Bible.

Bible Commentary: These offer an explanation of the Bible, chapter by chapter.

Bible Study Groups: Personal study is good, but other believers can help you better understand and grow.

Memory Verse

2 Timothy 3:16-17 "All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."