A recent study found that most people who attend church services do not read their Bible on a daily basis. About 34 percent read their Bible daily or a few times per week, while a combined 66 percent read it once per week, a few times per month, once a month, or rarely to never. Really, this should not be a shock to most of our readers. The obvious lack of Bible knowledge shows people are not avid Bible students. See the full article here.
The troubling thing is that this is also true of members of the church. Those of us who claim to faithfully follow New-Testament teaching are little better when it comes to consistent study of God’s word.
The Bible emphasizes again and again the importance of knowing God’s will which only comes through His word (Eph. 3:3, 4; 5:17; Acts 17:11; 2 Tim. 2:15; etc.). The gospel is God’s power unto salvation (Rom. 1:16). The truth sets us free (Jn. 8:32). Jesus commanded the apostles to make disciples and “teach them to observe all things that I have commanded you” (Matt. 28:20). This is not accomplished by two or three group studies per week. We are in a daily battle for our souls and must daily arm ourselves against the onslaught of the devil — as he attacks our minds.
The article also revealed the following.
The survey found 90 percent of churchgoers agree “I desire to please and honor Jesus in all I do,” and 59 percent agree with the statement: “Throughout the day I find myself thinking about biblical truths.” While the majority agree with both statements, there is a significant difference in the strength of agreement. Nearly two-thirds of churchgoers (64 percent) strongly agree with the first statement, but only 20 percent strongly agree with the second.
– Lifeway article
In other words, there is a huge disconnect between what people know is right and what they do. Jesus said the difference between the wise and foolish men was one did, the other did not (Matt. 7:24-27). Hence, James admonished, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves” (Jas. 1:22).
Regarding Bible study, let us not deceive ourselves by thinking that thinking consistent, regular study is good, but not doing it — that this is acceptable. Let us not be satisfied with acknowledging what is good and right, but fail to do it. If we are going to save ourselves and others, we must dig into the word; know it and live it (cf. 1 Tim. 4:16).
— Steven F. Deaton | www.ImplantedWord.com