Patrick Jane Forums | Theology, Anthropology, Conspiracy

Quote from: Lori Bolinger on August 19, 2019, 09:53:22 am

II Timothy 2:15 15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.



There is actually so much in this verse even without all the context but saying that I am NOT suggesting leaving out context.  What I am most interested in in this discussion is how we can study in such a way as to ensure we are rightly dividing the word of truth....what are your thoughts.  We have tons of different interpretations and ideas of what scripture is saying and all of us can claim to be right or spirit taught, those are easy claims to make....but how do we ensure that we are rightly dividing the word?  What is the process, or key to being right in our understanding?

I've learned over the last sixty years after going to so many different churches that there's a difference between what I would call head knowledge and heart knowledge. While going to those different churches, I could answer questions exactly as I was taught yet I knew that I couldn't be truly spiritually fulfilled until I started learning with my heart.

I've found it helpful to pray about something that I don't understand, maybe a scripture or a certain doctrine. I pray for understanding. God has different ways to answer a prayer for understanding. He can use a person, a situation, an experience or He will bring understanding to our hearts and minds through the Holy Spirit.

I had a very profound experience when I was about four or five years old. I was in a church and there was a large picture of Jesus in front of the pulpit. I asked this woman a question about the picture and what she said to me...well, you could have knocked me over with a feather. Because at that age I hadn't read the bible, had no understanding of scripture or doctrines. It was what I knew about God in my heart. It has stayed with me all these years. It was very important to me and definitely made a lasting impression. Let's just say that maybe this woman needed to have given more thought to my question before she answered.

I've had experiences that have helped me to come to know God better and even helped me to understand some scriptures that I struggled with for years.
I won't go into all that but some of those experiences were very profound and made me think about some things that I didn't understand and needed answers to.

That being said, I'm continually learning and seeking answers and understanding. God is patient and loving like a good Father.

 ◄ Proverbs 3 ►

1My son, do not forget my law,
But let your heart keep my commands;
2For length of days and long life
And peace they will add to you.

3Let not mercy and truth forsake you;
Bind them around your neck,
Write them on the tablet of your heart,
4And so find favor and high esteem
In the sight of God and man.

5Trust in the LORD with all your heart,
And lean not on your own understanding;
6In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He shall direct your paths.

Deut. 11:18 And ye shall store these words in your heart and in your soul, and ye shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and it shall be fixed before your eyes.