B
Brother Mike
Guest
You are most definitely correct in that sentiment, it is a condition of the heart. What is the condition of our heart when we study. Do we stand with pride and self-righteousness in our hearts that cause us to hear the word of God as if we are the one's delivering the condemnation, or has our hearts been prepared that we might be able to receive the word of God as the one receiving the condemnation?
Well, the question you asked is "HOW" to rightly divide the Word of Truth. The other part of that scripture was to be a Workman. They are connected.
Looking at the responses, you see the normal human reasoning involved as with lots of responses on the forum. If you want the answer, I'll give it to you. If you want it. I have learned more and more not to expound to those who do not seek, or reveal to those who do not care. Jesus actually told us. How to divide the Word of truth correctly, how to know what is right?
So, it's the condition of the heart "BEFORE" we study. Any person can increase in knowledge, but still be lost to the power of the knowledge gained. There is certainly no power to use knowledge to condemn someone or use scripture against them that does not lift up and help them.
Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
(2Ti 3:7)
There is a blindness the comes on those who do not meet the Lord's One condition. You will see it in their lives, the way they talk, and conduct themselves. When you see bad doctrine, this will always be present in their life. You will notice it right away, once you know what your looking for.
Unless this is changed, no amount of Hermeneutics, human reasoning, and study will help. It also explains why there are bad places people call church and always will be.
Be blessed, thank you for responding.