The problem with so many “so called” doctrines is that they are based on a single meaning of words which actually have different meanings.
Words such as “elect,” “baptism,” and “church” are blindly given one blanket meaning, based on presumptions, which are based on theological traditions.
Context is Key, and King, in defining words in Scripture. Otherwise we are placed into Biblical positions which are not genuine positions, or Biblical, for that matter.
The key to proper Bible study is to actually study the Bible. Our tendency is to study the scriptures with a predetermined outcome, as well as to take as fact someone else’s predetermined outcome. A vicious circle, indeed.
Our goal is to “shew ourselves approved into God.” (2 Timothy 2:15) Our old man seeks the approval of man, rather than by God.
Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: [43] For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God. – John 12:42-43
How do men, especially pastors, look for the praise of men? Quite simply, they do so by standing by their denominational, and seminary traditions. When I look back I’m grateful that I went through different traditions / viewpoints.
I decided several years ago that I wasn’t going to go by a human standpoint, even though I’m grateful for those that have gone before me. Yet, so many hold these human scholars up as the standard. This may come as a shock to some, but there is no one on this earth who meets the standard! No matter how intelligent one appears to be they are fools compared to God.
For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. [19] For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent. [20] Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? [21] For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe. [22] For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom: [23] But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; [24] But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. [25] Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men. – 1 Corinthians 1:18-25
The answer
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. – 2 Timothy 2:15
The key is to be a workman, or laborer.
Yes, salvation is entirely a gift of God. But, in order to realize how great that salvation is we really do need to render due diligence in exercising our minds in the truth.
But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness. [8] For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. – 1 Timothy 4:7-8
Physically speaking; as a person gets older he, or she needs more physical activity to maintain muscles. Spiritually speaking, more spiritual exercise is needed to maintain “spiritual muscle.”
There are no shortcuts. Commentaries, YouTube videos of your favorite (and not so favorite) Bible teachers cannot replace the hard work, the laboring, involved with personally studying the Bible.
Yes, study the Bible! This is the most effective exercise a believer has at their disposal. You’ll profit greatly.
Bob Picard, Pastor, God’s Grace Bible Church, Millbury, MA
http://www.godsgracebc.org info@godsgracebc.org
SUPPLY OF GRACE 
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