The Bible joins receiving God’s truth with understanding it and doing it. Its own accounts show people listening together, asking questions, examining an explanation, remembering what they have heard, and changing their conduct. These practices belong together as you learn to love and serve the Lord.
Receive Scripture as God’s gift for salvation and faithful living
Read with a willingness to be taught and changed by God. In 2 Timothy 3:14–15, Paul tells Timothy to continue in what he has learned and recalls the holy Scriptures he has known from childhood. Their purpose reaches beyond familiarity with sacred words: they can make him wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. The Scriptures Timothy first learned were Israel’s sacred writings. Paul sees them leading toward the salvation found in Christ. Approach them with that purpose, seeking to know the Lord and trust what he has done.
Paul explains why Scripture deserves this attention in 2 Timothy 3:16–17: it is given by God’s inspiration and is useful for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness. Teaching makes the truth known; reproof exposes what is wrong; correction directs a person back toward what is right; training forms a faithful way of life. The stated goal is that God’s servant be fully equipped for good works. The KJV’s “perfect” and “throughly furnished” describe this readiness and equipment. Let the passage teach you something true, correct something mistaken, and prepare you to do good.
This confidence belongs in difficult life as well as quiet study. Paul has just recalled his suffering and warned that godly living will meet persecution (2 Timothy 3:10–13). He then charges Timothy to proclaim the word with patience and teaching, even when hearers prefer what suits their desires (2 Timothy 4:1–5). That charge addresses Timothy’s ministry; it also helps a listener recognize what faithful teaching is meant to provide. Receive instruction that brings you into the truth and sustains obedience, including when it challenges what you wanted to hear.
Second Peter 1:16–21 likewise gives reasons to take God’s testimony seriously. Peter recalls the witnessed majesty of Jesus and the heavenly voice, then urges attention to the prophetic word as to a light in darkness. Verse 21 explains that prophecy did not originate in human will: the speakers were moved by the Holy Ghost. God’s action gives the message its authority. The reader’s proper response is attentive trust in what God has given, with the understanding that explaining that message carries responsibility before him.
Further study: John Frederick · Matt Skinner · Biblical Studies Press · Biblical Studies Press
Give God’s words a lasting place in your attention
Return to God’s instruction often enough to remember it and consider how it directs your life. Deuteronomy 6:4–9 joins love for the LORD with keeping his words in the heart and speaking of them while sitting at home, travelling, lying down, and rising. Moses is addressing Israel as it prepares to live in the promised land. In Deuteronomy 6:10–12, he explains why remembrance matters: houses, wells, and vineyards can fill their lives while they forget the God who delivered them from slavery. His words are to remain present within the life his goodness has made possible.
Psalm 1:1–6 praises the person whose delight and regular meditation are in the LORD’s law. The contrast concerns the direction of a life: whose counsel shapes it and where that path ends. The tree beside streams bears fruit in its season, while wind carries away the chaff. The image commends a rooted, fruitful life under God’s care. Give Scripture recurring attention because its truth deserves to shape your judgment, your affections, and your choices.
Psalm 119:9–16 makes this attention personal and practical. The writer treasures the word in his heart so that he may avoid sin, speaks of God’s judgments, rejoices in them, meditates on them, and resolves to remember them. Meditation here involves considering God’s instruction and attending to his ways. Read a passage, think through what it says, recall its words, and ask how its meaning bears on your conduct. Remembering words serves the larger purpose of keeping them.
Joshua 1:7–8 also connects constant attention with doing what is written. Joshua must speak and meditate on the law as he carries out his commission to lead Israel into the land. The promised success belongs to that calling; it is not a general promise of wealth for anyone who completes a reading routine. Psalm 119:105–112 supplies a complementary picture: the word lights the writer’s path while he remains afflicted and exposed to danger. He keeps learning and obeying within those circumstances. Establish a regular practice of hearing and reading, and return to the word as you carry out the responsibilities actually given to you.
Read to understand, and welcome help with the meaning
Aim to understand what you hear and read. In Nehemiah 8:1–8, the returned community asks Ezra to bring the law of Moses. Men, women, and those able to understand listen attentively. The Levites help the people understand, and verse 8 says the reading is made clear and its sense given. The scene values both the actual words and their explanation. Take time over a passage, and receive help that makes its meaning clearer.
The understanding changes the people’s response. They first weep, but the leaders explain that this holy day calls for rejoicing and sharing food with those who have none prepared (Nehemiah 8:9–12). Further attention to the law leads them to observe the feast of booths, with reading continuing through the feast (Nehemiah 8:13–18). Their action follows instruction they have understood. This is Israel’s particular covenant gathering and festival; its lasting lesson for a reader is the connection between attentive hearing, faithful explanation, and an appropriate response.
The Ethiopian official in Acts 8:26–35 shows the value of asking a precise question. He is reading the passage about a servant led like a sheep to slaughter and deprived of justice. Philip asks whether he understands. The official invites help and asks whom the prophet is describing: himself or someone else. Philip begins from that Scripture and tells him about Jesus. His explanation addresses the reader’s actual question. The surrounding poem, Isaiah 52:13–53:12, moves through the servant’s suffering, innocence, bearing of others’ sins, and vindication. These details matter to understanding the passage Philip uses, although Acts does not preserve his whole explanation.
Bring that kind of attention to your own reading. Identify who is speaking, whom the words address, and what the paragraph is explaining. Follow a question into its answer and a command into its stated reason. Read enough of the surrounding passage to understand the people, events, or argument being discussed. When the meaning remains unclear, ask someone who can explain the text carefully and show the basis for the explanation. The official’s invitation to Philip treats help with understanding as something to receive gladly.
Further study: Patricia Tull · J. R. Daniel Kirk
Let the passage’s meaning guide how you use it
Use a verse in a way that agrees with what God is teaching through it. Matthew 4:1–11 shows Jesus responding to temptation through Scripture. When urged to make bread, he recalls that human life depends on every word from God (Matthew 4:3–4). Deuteronomy 8:2–6 explains the original lesson: God allowed Israel to hunger, supplied manna, and taught dependence on him as he trained his people. Jesus’ answer expresses that trusting obedience. It does not make bodily food unimportant; God himself had supplied it.
The next temptation makes the need for faithful interpretation especially clear. The devil quotes the promise of angelic protection from Psalm 91:11–12 and urges Jesus to throw himself from the temple (Matthew 4:5–6). Jesus answers with the command against testing God (Matthew 4:7; Deuteronomy 6:16). Psalm 91:1–2 presents God as the refuge of the one who trusts him. Its closing promises address the person who loves and calls on him, and include his presence in trouble (Psalm 91:14–16). Its promise is being misused when it becomes a reason to manufacture a test of his faithfulness.
The setting recalled in Deuteronomy makes Jesus’ answer clearer. At Massah, the thirsty people quarrel with Moses and question whether the LORD is among them; God nevertheless gives them water (Exodus 17:1–7). Deuteronomy 6:16–19 calls Israel to obey instead of repeating that test. Jesus receives both God’s promise and God’s command together. Read related passages in that way: let them explain the character of the trust, hope, or obedience a verse calls for. A biblical phrase is rightly used when its proposed application agrees with that meaning.
Careful handling matters when explaining Scripture to others. In 2 Timothy 2:14–18, Paul contrasts a faithful worker with teachers who have departed from the truth by saying that the resurrection has already happened. Their teaching overturns faith. The KJV’s “Study” in verse 15 calls for diligence, and “rightly dividing the word of truth” concerns handling or teaching the message accurately. Paul then joins this responsibility to righteous conduct, patience, and gentle instruction (2 Timothy 2:19–26). Learn with care, and explain only what you can support from the passage, with the same willingness to receive correction that you ask of others.
Further study: Judith Jones · Biblical Studies Press
Follow Scripture’s witness to Christ and its unfolding promises
Seek to know Christ through the witness Scripture actually gives to him. In Luke 24:13–27, the two travellers know about Jesus’ crucifixion and the report of the empty tomb, but their hope has been shaken. Jesus addresses their slowness to believe the prophets and explains that the Christ’s suffering leads to his glory. Beginning with Moses and the prophets, he unfolds what concerns himself. Their understanding of the events changes as those events are placed within God’s revealed purpose.
Luke 24:36–49 makes the center of that purpose explicit. The risen Jesus shows his hands and feet and eats before the disciples, then opens their understanding of the Scriptures. He speaks of his suffering and resurrection and the proclamation of repentance and forgiveness to all nations. Read the earlier writings with this fulfilled purpose in view, following the connections the biblical texts give. John 5:39–40 makes the personal response equally clear: the Scriptures testify to Jesus, and life is found by coming to him. John 20:30–31 explains that the recorded signs were selected so that readers would believe Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and have life through his name. Let the testimony lead you to that faith.
Take the earlier writings seriously as you follow Jesus. In Matthew 5:17–20, he says that he came to fulfill the law and the prophets. Even the law’s smallest written marks will remain until all is fulfilled. He joins doing the commandments with teaching them. He then calls for a righteousness exceeding that of the scribes and Pharisees. The passage gives no permission to treat obedience lightly. Read those words together with the accounts of what Jesus fulfills and the instruction he gives: his coming carries God’s purpose forward and calls his disciples into faithful living.
Following that fulfillment also helps you understand how an earlier command applies. Hebrews 10:1–14 explains that repeated animal sacrifices could not finally remove sins, whereas Jesus has offered himself once for all. His single offering and his sitting at God’s right hand explain why the earlier sacrifices are not an instruction for Christians to repeat. Hebrews 10:15–18 then recalls the promised covenant in which God writes his laws within his people and remembers their sins no more. Jeremiah 31:31–34 originally announces that promise to Israel and Judah. The earlier words remain instructive as Hebrews explains their fulfillment in Christ. Respond by trusting his sufficient offering, receiving the forgiveness he gives, and letting God’s instruction shape your heart.
The earlier Scriptures also continue to nourish the church’s conduct and hope. Romans 15:1–4 calls the strong to bear with the weak for their good. Paul points to Christ’s refusal to please himself and quotes the words about bearing the reproaches directed against God. He then explains that the earlier writings give patience and encouragement so that believers may have hope. The argument leads to receiving one another as Christ received them, and to Jews and Gentiles praising God for fulfilled promises and mercy (Romans 15:5–13). Read for what God reveals about himself, what he has promised and accomplished, and the response the passage supports. A law, a poem, a narrated event, and an instruction to a church contribute in their own ways; understanding that contribution helps you obey faithfully.
Further study: John Frederick · J. R. Daniel Kirk · Emerson Powery
Ask God for understanding as you give careful attention
Ask God to help you understand and receive his truth. Psalm 119:18 prays, “Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.” The writer is looking toward God’s given instruction and asking for help to see its worth and meaning. In Ephesians 1:15–23, Paul prays for believers to know God more fully: the hope of his calling, the riches of his inheritance, and the power displayed in raising and exalting Christ. Let your prayer have that substance—greater knowledge of God, firmer hope, and readiness to live by what he reveals.
God’s Spirit is essential to receiving God’s wisdom. In 1 Corinthians 2:1–5, Paul recalls proclaiming Jesus Christ crucified so that faith would rest in God’s power. Verses 6–12 explain that this wisdom comes from God, whose own Spirit knows and reveals what human wisdom could not discover. Verses 13–16 distinguish receiving that gift from dismissing it as foolishness. Understanding here reaches beyond being able to repeat the words: it involves recognizing and welcoming God’s saving wisdom in Christ.
Dependence on the Spirit should therefore make you receptive to truth and correction. The same argument continues with Paul telling the Corinthians that envy and factions show their immaturity (1 Corinthians 3:1–9). They are addressed as people in Christ, yet still need their judgments and conduct corrected. The Spirit’s help gives no reason to treat your present explanation as incapable of error. Submit it to the apostolic teaching that made Christ known to you, and be willing to learn more faithfully.
Ephesians 3:3–6 shows how God’s revelation and a reader’s understanding relate. Paul says the mystery was made known to him by revelation and that his readers can understand his knowledge by reading what he writes. He identifies the revealed truth: Gentiles share the inheritance, the body, and the promise in Christ through the gospel. The Spirit disclosed it to the apostles and prophets; their testimony gives others something intelligible to read and receive. Attend to that testimony with confidence that its meaning can be understood.
Prayer and thought work together in that learning. In 2 Timothy 2:3–7, Paul uses a soldier’s single-minded service, an athlete’s obedience to the rules, and a farmer’s labor to teach Timothy about faithful endurance. He tells Timothy to consider what he says and looks to the Lord for understanding. Timothy must actually think through the comparisons. Ask for God’s help while attending to the words, weighing their reasons, and receiving patient instruction. What Christians often call illumination is God’s help in understanding and embracing his truth; it does not make each reader another inspired author.
Further study: Bryan J. Whitfield
Learn among God’s people and examine what you are taught
Give shared hearing and learning a place alongside your own reading. In 1 Timothy 4:6–16, Timothy is to nourish the believers with faithful teaching, set an example in conduct, and attend to reading, exhortation, and doctrine. His ministry includes putting the word before its hearers and helping them respond. Colossians 3:16 addresses the whole community: Christ’s word is to dwell richly among them as they teach and admonish one another and sing to the Lord. Join in that learning and worship with attention and gratitude.
The setting in Colossians 3:12–17 shows the character of this shared learning and what it should produce. Compassion, kindness, humility, patience, forgiveness, love, and peace surround the command to teach. Admonition is instruction that helps someone recognize and turn from wrong; it belongs within care for that person. Listen to faithful teaching, contribute what you have understood, and allow others to help you. The community is being formed together by the word of Christ.
Examine an explanation with a readiness to receive what is true. Acts 17:1–3 describes Paul reasoning that the Christ had to suffer and rise, and that Jesus is this Christ. At Berea, the hearers receive the message eagerly and search the Scriptures daily to see whether the things he says are so; many believe (Acts 17:10–12). Luke commends that combination of openness and examination. Hear the argument accurately, return to its passages, and consider whether the explanation follows from them.
Keep that teachability as your knowledge grows. Acts 18:24–28 describes Apollos as eloquent and strong in the Scriptures, yet knowing only John’s baptism. Aquila and Priscilla explain the way of God to him more accurately, and his later ministry helps believers while showing from Scripture that Jesus is the Christ. The account does not supply all the details of their lesson. It does show substantial ability receiving further instruction. Welcome correction that helps you understand God’s truth more clearly.
First John 2:24–27 gives confidence for this shared learning. John speaks of an abiding anointing—the Spirit’s teaching help—and calls believers to remain in what they heard from the beginning. John is addressing people being drawn toward teaching that denies the Son; his own written instruction recalls them to the truth they already received (1 John 2:18–26). His assurance that they do not need someone to teach them is therefore not a direction to abandon all teachers. They possess God’s provision for remaining in Christ and need no replacement for that received truth. Read the assurance with the letter’s own teaching and the church’s responsibility to teach one another.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press
Let hearing become repentance, trust, and action
Receive the word with a heart ready to respond. James 1:17–21 begins with the Father’s good gifts and his bringing people to life through the word of truth. It then calls for attentive hearing, restraint in speech and anger, the putting away of evil, and meek reception of the implanted word. The order matters: obedience answers the saving truth God gives. As you hear it, acknowledge what it reveals about your life and turn toward the good it teaches.
James 1:22–25 explains why hearing must continue into action. A hearer who never acts resembles someone who sees his face in a mirror, walks away, and forgets it. Seeing has produced no lasting response. The blessed person looks into the law of liberty, continues in it, and does what it requires. James then identifies concrete conduct: governing the tongue, caring for orphans and widows in their distress, and keeping clear of the world’s corruption (James 1:26–27). Bring what you learn into your words, your care for people, and the direction of your life.
Jesus gives this response lasting weight in Matthew 7:21–27. Calling him Lord and claiming impressive works do not replace doing the Father’s will. His comparison of two builders then makes the distinction unmistakable: both hear, but the wise builder also does what Jesus says. When rain, floods, and wind beat against the houses, the one founded on rock stands. Hearing joined to obedience gives the life its foundation. John 14:15–24 places this obedience within love for Jesus: those who love him keep his words. Respond to him personally as you act on his teaching.
Allow Scripture to form your prayers as well as your actions. After praising the LORD’s instruction as life-giving, wise, delightful, and precious, the writer of Psalm 19 asks to be cleansed from hidden faults and kept from presumptuous sins (Psalm 19:7–13). He ends by asking that his words and inward meditation be acceptable to his redeemer (Psalm 19:14). His delight leads into honest dependence. Give thanks for what God makes known, confess the wrong he exposes, ask for his help, and pursue the faithful response you have understood.
Keep learning patiently and hold to the word you receive
Be patient with what takes further study while taking seriously what you already understand. While urging faithful readiness for the Lord’s coming, 2 Peter 3:14–18 acknowledges that some things in Paul’s letters are difficult, places their distortion alongside distortion of the other Scriptures, and calls readers to grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ. Difficulty is real, and continued learning is the appropriate response. Read the argument again, seek sound help, and distinguish a firm conclusion from a question you have not yet resolved.
Growth also comes through using what you learn. Hebrews 5:11–14 interrupts an explanation of Christ’s priesthood because the hearers have become dull in listening. They still need elementary teaching when they should be able to teach others. The comparison between milk and solid food concerns maturity in receiving and using God’s truth; the mature have their faculties trained by practice to distinguish good from evil. Stay attentive to the teaching about Christ and exercise the judgment it forms as you obey.
Jesus’ explanation of the sower gives perseverance a concrete shape. In Luke 8:11–15, the seed is God’s word. Some hearers lose it, some welcome it briefly and fall away under testing, and some allow cares, riches, and pleasures to choke its growth. The good soil pictures those who hear, hold the word in a good and honest heart, and bear fruit with patience. This is Jesus’ account of response to the kingdom message. Receive that message deeply enough to continue with it through pressure and distraction, giving it time and obedience in which to bear fruit.
Psalm 119:97–112 joins these practices in a sustained life with God. The writer gains understanding through meditation and keeping the precepts, turns his feet away from evil, and continues to ask God to teach him while afflicted. The word remains both delight and guidance. Keep returning to Scripture with this purpose: to know the Lord more truly, receive the help he gives, and walk faithfully in the light you have received.
Read the passages
Scripture in context
39 contextual selections for this subject, including the passages cited above and further related reading. Every selected range is reproduced in full from the KJV. Context notes identify the setting and kind of evidence.
Wilderness narrative with explicit evaluation 1 selections
Exodus 17:1–7 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete water-at-Rephidim account includes thirst, accusation, Moses’ appeal, God’s provision, and the explanation of the names Massah and Meribah.
17:1 And all the congregation of the children of Israel journeyed from the wilderness of Sin, after their journeys, according to the commandment of the LORD, and pitched in Rephidim: and there was no water for the people to drink.
17:2 Wherefore the people did chide with Moses, and said, Give us water that we may drink. And Moses said unto them, Why chide ye with me? wherefore do ye tempt the LORD?
17:3 And the people thirsted there for water; and the people murmured against Moses, and said, Wherefore is this that thou hast brought us up out of Egypt, to kill us and our children and our cattle with thirst?
17:4 And Moses cried unto the LORD, saying, What shall I do unto this people? they be almost ready to stone me.
17:5 And the LORD said unto Moses, Go on before the people, and take with thee of the elders of Israel; and thy rod, wherewith thou smotest the river, take in thine hand, and go.
17:6 Behold, I will stand before thee there upon the rock in Horeb; and thou shalt smite the rock, and there shall come water out of it, that the people may drink. And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel.
17:7 And he called the name of the place Massah, and Meribah, because of the chiding of the children of Israel, and because they tempted the LORD, saying, Is the LORD among us, or not?
Covenant instruction 1 selections
Deuteronomy 6:1–25 KJV · In this guide
Context: Moses addresses Israel before life in the promised land: love and teach the LORD’s words, remember deliverance amid abundance, refuse other gods and testing, and explain the covenant to a questioning child.
6:1 Now these are the commandments, the statutes, and the judgments, which the LORD your God commanded to teach you, that ye might do them in the land whither ye go to possess it:
6:2 That thou mightest fear the LORD thy God, to keep all his statutes and his commandments, which I command thee, thou, and thy son, and thy son’s son, all the days of thy life; and that thy days may be prolonged.
6:3 Hear therefore, O Israel, and observe to do it; that it may be well with thee, and that ye may increase mightily, as the LORD God of thy fathers hath promised thee, in the land that floweth with milk and honey.
6:4 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD:
6:5 And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.
6:6 And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart:
6:7 And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.
6:8 And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes.
6:9 And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.
6:10 And it shall be, when the LORD thy God shall have brought thee into the land which he sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give thee great and goodly cities, which thou buildedst not,
6:11 And houses full of all good things, which thou filledst not, and wells digged, which thou diggedst not, vineyards and olive trees, which thou plantedst not; when thou shalt have eaten and be full;
6:12 Then beware lest thou forget the LORD, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage.
6:13 Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name.
6:14 Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which are round about you;
6:15 (For the LORD thy God is a jealous God among you) lest the anger of the LORD thy God be kindled against thee, and destroy thee from off the face of the earth.
6:16 Ye shall not tempt the LORD your God, as ye tempted him in Massah.
6:17 Ye shall diligently keep the commandments of the LORD your God, and his testimonies, and his statutes, which he hath commanded thee.
6:18 And thou shalt do that which is right and good in the sight of the LORD: that it may be well with thee, and that thou mayest go in and possess the good land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers,
6:19 To cast out all thine enemies from before thee, as the LORD hath spoken.
6:20 And when thy son asketh thee in time to come, saying, What mean the testimonies, and the statutes, and the judgments, which the LORD our God hath commanded you?
6:21 Then thou shalt say unto thy son, We were Pharaoh’s bondmen in Egypt; and the LORD brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand:
6:22 And the LORD shewed signs and wonders, great and sore, upon Egypt, upon Pharaoh, and upon all his household, before our eyes:
6:23 And he brought us out from thence, that he might bring us in, to give us the land which he sware unto our fathers.
6:24 And the LORD commanded us to do all these statutes, to fear the LORD our God, for our good always, that he might preserve us alive, as it is at this day.
6:25 And it shall be our righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandments before the LORD our God, as he hath commanded us.
Covenant exhortation interpreting history 1 selections
Deuteronomy 8:1–6 KJV · In this guide
Context: Moses recalls the wilderness, hunger, manna, preserved clothing and fatherly discipline to explain dependence on God and obedience.
8:1 All the commandments which I command thee this day shall ye observe to do, that ye may live, and multiply, and go in and possess the land which the LORD sware unto your fathers.
8:2 And thou shalt remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his commandments, or no.
8:3 And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.
8:4 Thy raiment waxed not old upon thee, neither did thy foot swell, these forty years.
8:5 Thou shalt also consider in thine heart, that, as a man chasteneth his son, so the LORD thy God chasteneth thee.
8:6 Therefore thou shalt keep the commandments of the LORD thy God, to walk in his ways, and to fear him.
Particular divine commission 1 selections
Joshua 1:1–9 KJV · In this guide
Context: After Moses’ death the LORD commissions Joshua to cross the Jordan and lead Israel, promising his presence and requiring courage, meditation and obedience to the law.
1:1 Now after the death of Moses the servant of the LORD it came to pass, that the LORD spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ minister, saying,
1:2 Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel.
1:3 Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses.
1:4 From the wilderness and this Lebanon even unto the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and unto the great sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your coast.
1:5 There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.
1:6 Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them.
1:7 Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest.
1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.
1:9 Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.
Evaluated communal narrative 1 selections
Nehemiah 8:1–18 KJV · In this guide
Context: The restored community requests the law, hears it publicly with explanation, receives direction to rejoice and share, and observes the feast of booths with continued reading.
8:1 And all the people gathered themselves together as one man into the street that was before the water gate; and they spake unto Ezra the scribe to bring the book of the law of Moses, which the LORD had commanded to Israel.
8:2 And Ezra the priest brought the law before the congregation both of men and women, and all that could hear with understanding, upon the first day of the seventh month.
8:3 And he read therein before the street that was before the water gate from the morning until midday, before the men and the women, and those that could understand; and the ears of all the people were attentive unto the book of the law.
8:4 And Ezra the scribe stood upon a pulpit of wood, which they had made for the purpose; and beside him stood Mattithiah, and Shema, and Anaiah, and Urijah, and Hilkiah, and Maaseiah, on his right hand; and on his left hand, Pedaiah, and Mishael, and Malchiah, and Hashum, and Hashbadana, Zechariah, and Meshullam.
8:5 And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people; (for he was above all the people;) and when he opened it, all the people stood up:
8:6 And Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God. And all the people answered, Amen, Amen, with lifting up their hands: and they bowed their heads, and worshipped the LORD with their faces to the ground.
8:7 Also Jeshua, and Bani, and Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodijah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, and the Levites, caused the people to understand the law: and the people stood in their place.
8:8 So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading.
8:9 And Nehemiah, which is the Tirshatha, and Ezra the priest the scribe, and the Levites that taught the people, said unto all the people, This day is holy unto the LORD your God; mourn not, nor weep. For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the law.
8:10 Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength.
8:11 So the Levites stilled all the people, saying, Hold your peace, for the day is holy; neither be ye grieved.
8:12 And all the people went their way to eat, and to drink, and to send portions, and to make great mirth, because they had understood the words that were declared unto them.
8:13 And on the second day were gathered together the chief of the fathers of all the people, the priests, and the Levites, unto Ezra the scribe, even to understand the words of the law.
8:14 And they found written in the law which the LORD had commanded by Moses, that the children of Israel should dwell in booths in the feast of the seventh month:
8:15 And that they should publish and proclaim in all their cities, and in Jerusalem, saying, Go forth unto the mount, and fetch olive branches, and pine branches, and myrtle branches, and palm branches, and branches of thick trees, to make booths, as it is written.
8:16 So the people went forth, and brought them, and made themselves booths, every one upon the roof of his house, and in their courts, and in the courts of the house of God, and in the street of the water gate, and in the street of the gate of Ephraim.
8:17 And all the congregation of them that were come again out of the captivity made booths, and sat under the booths: for since the days of Jeshua the son of Nun unto that day had not the children of Israel done so. And there was very great gladness.
8:18 Also day by day, from the first day unto the last day, he read in the book of the law of God. And they kept the feast seven days; and on the eighth day was a solemn assembly, according unto the manner.
Wisdom poetry 1 selections
Psalms 1:1–6 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete opening psalm contrasts two ways through counsel, meditation, tree and chaff imagery, and final judgment.
1:1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.
1:2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.
1:3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
1:4 The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.
1:5 Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.
1:6 For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.
Praise and prayer poetry 1 selections
Psalms 19:1–14 KJV · In this guide
Context: The whole psalm moves from creation’s testimony to the goodness of the LORD’s instruction and a prayer for cleansing, restraint and acceptable speech and thought.
19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.
19:2 Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge.
19:3 There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.
19:4 Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,
19:5 Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race.
19:6 His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.
19:7 The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.
19:8 The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.
19:9 The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.
19:10 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.
19:11 Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.
19:12 Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults.
19:13 Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression.
19:14 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.
Trust poetry and promise 1 selections
Psalms 91:1–16 KJV · In this guide
Context: The whole psalm expresses trust in God’s shelter and protection and closes with divine promises to one who loves and calls upon him, including his presence in trouble.
91:1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
91:2 I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.
91:3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.
91:4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
91:5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;
91:6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.
91:7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.
91:8 Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.
91:9 Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;
91:10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.
91:11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.
91:12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.
91:13 Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.
91:14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.
91:15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.
91:16 With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.
Prayer and wisdom poetry 2 selections
Psalms 119:9–24 KJV · In this guide
Context: Two complete alphabetic stanzas join a guarded way, remembered words, delight, meditation and prayer for sight with faithful attention under opposition.
119:9 Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.
119:10 With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments.
119:11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.
119:12 Blessed art thou, O LORD: teach me thy statutes.
119:13 With my lips have I declared all the judgments of thy mouth.
119:14 I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as much as in all riches.
119:15 I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways.
119:16 I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.
119:17 Deal bountifully with thy servant, that I may live, and keep thy word.
119:18 Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.
119:19 I am a stranger in the earth: hide not thy commandments from me.
119:20 My soul breaketh for the longing that it hath unto thy judgments at all times.
119:21 Thou hast rebuked the proud that are cursed, which do err from thy commandments.
119:22 Remove from me reproach and contempt; for I have kept thy testimonies.
119:23 Princes also did sit and speak against me: but thy servant did meditate in thy statutes.
119:24 Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counsellors.
Psalms 119:97–112 KJV · In this guide
Context: Two complete alphabetic stanzas associate practiced understanding with love of God’s law, then describe his word as light amid affliction and danger.
119:97 O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day.
119:98 Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me.
119:99 I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation.
119:100 I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts.
119:101 I have refrained my feet from every evil way, that I might keep thy word.
119:102 I have not departed from thy judgments: for thou hast taught me.
119:103 How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!
119:104 Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.
119:105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
119:106 I have sworn, and I will perform it, that I will keep thy righteous judgments.
119:107 I am afflicted very much: quicken me, O LORD, according unto thy word.
119:108 Accept, I beseech thee, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O LORD, and teach me thy judgments.
119:109 My soul is continually in my hand: yet do I not forget thy law.
119:110 The wicked have laid a snare for me: yet I erred not from thy precepts.
119:111 Thy testimonies have I taken as an heritage for ever: for they are the rejoicing of my heart.
119:112 I have inclined mine heart to perform thy statutes alway, even unto the end.
Prophetic poetry 1 selections
Isaiah 52:13–53:12 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete servant poem moves from exaltation and astonishment through rejection, suffering for others, death and vindication.
52:13 Behold, my servant shall deal prudently, he shall be exalted and extolled, and be very high.
52:14 As many were astonied at thee; his visage was so marred more than any man, and his form more than the sons of men:
52:15 So shall he sprinkle many nations; the kings shall shut their mouths at him: for that which had not been told them shall they see; and that which they had not heard shall they consider.
53:1 Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed?
53:2 For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.
53:3 He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.
53:4 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
53:5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
53:6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.
53:7 He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth.
53:8 He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken.
53:9 And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth.
53:10 Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand.
53:11 He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities.
53:12 Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.
Prophetic promise 1 selections
Jeremiah 31:31–34 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete new-covenant oracle promises Israel and Judah inwardly written law, knowledge of the LORD and forgiveness after their breach of the exodus covenant.
31:31 Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:
31:32 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith the LORD:
31:33 But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people.
31:34 And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the LORD: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the LORD: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.
Gospel narrative 1 selections
Matthew 4:1–11 KJV · In this guide
Context: The Spirit leads Jesus into the wilderness; the devil tests his sonship through food, protection and rule, and Jesus answers from Deuteronomy before angels minister to him.
4:1 Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.
4:2 And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred.
4:3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.
4:4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
4:5 Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple,
4:6 And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.
4:7 Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.
4:8 Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them;
4:9 And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.
4:10 Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.
4:11 Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.
Jesus’ teaching about law and prophets 1 selections
Matthew 5:17–20 KJV · In this guide
Context: After the Beatitudes and salt/light sayings, Jesus explains his relation to law and prophets and calls for doing, teaching and surpassing righteousness before developing particular commands.
5:17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.
5:18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.
5:19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
5:20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.
Teaching and parabolic comparison 1 selections
Matthew 7:21–29 KJV · In this guide
Context: The conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount moves from claims made at judgment to hearing and doing, the two houses, and the crowd’s recognition of Jesus’ authority.
7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
7:22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
7:24 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
7:25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.
7:26 And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:
7:27 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.
7:28 And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine:
7:29 For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.
Parable with Jesus’ explanation and related teaching 1 selections
Luke 8:4–21 KJV · In this guide
Context: The sower, the disciples’ question and Jesus’ explanation lead to further sayings about hearing and the identification of his family through hearing and doing God’s word.
8:4 And when much people were gathered together, and were come to him out of every city, he spake by a parable:
8:5 A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it.
8:6 And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture.
8:7 And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it.
8:8 And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold. And when he had said these things, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.
8:9 And his disciples asked him, saying, What might this parable be?
8:10 And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand.
8:11 Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God.
8:12 Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.
8:13 They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away.
8:14 And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection.
8:15 But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.
8:16 No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light.
8:17 For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad.
8:18 Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have.
8:19 Then came to him his mother and his brethren, and could not come at him for the press.
8:20 And it was told him by certain which said, Thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to see thee.
8:21 And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it.
Resurrection narrative and scriptural explanation 1 selections
Luke 24:13–35 KJV · In this guide
Context: Two disciples interpret the crucifixion as disappointed hope; the risen Jesus explains the prophets, becomes known in the breaking of bread, and they return to the others.
24:13 And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs.
24:14 And they talked together of all these things which had happened.
24:15 And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them.
24:16 But their eyes were holden that they should not know him.
24:17 And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?
24:18 And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?
24:19 And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people:
24:20 And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him.
24:21 But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done.
24:22 Yea, and certain women also of our company made us astonished, which were early at the sepulchre;
24:23 And when they found not his body, they came, saying, that they had also seen a vision of angels, which said that he was alive.
24:24 And certain of them which were with us went to the sepulchre, and found it even so as the women had said: but him they saw not.
24:25 Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken:
24:26 Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?
24:27 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.
24:28 And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went: and he made as though he would have gone further.
24:29 But they constrained him, saying, Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent. And he went in to tarry with them.
24:30 And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them.
24:31 And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight.
24:32 And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?
24:33 And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them,
24:34 Saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon.
24:35 And they told what things were done in the way, and how he was known of them in breaking of bread.
Resurrection appearance and commission 1 selections
Luke 24:36–49 KJV · In this guide
Context: Jesus shows the disciples his bodily resurrection, explains fulfillment in the law, prophets and psalms, and commissions witness to repentance and forgiveness among the nations.
24:36 And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.
24:37 But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit.
24:38 And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts?
24:39 Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.
24:40 And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet.
24:41 And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat?
24:42 And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb.
24:43 And he took it, and did eat before them.
24:44 And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.
24:45 Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,
24:46 And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:
24:47 And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
24:48 And ye are witnesses of these things.
24:49 And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.
Jesus’ argument about testimony 1 selections
John 5:30–47 KJV · In this guide
Context: Jesus explains testimony to his mission through John, his works, the Father and Scripture, then exposes refusal to believe Moses and come to the one he foretold.
5:30 I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.
5:31 If I bear witness of myself, my witness is not true.
5:32 There is another that beareth witness of me; and I know that the witness which he witnesseth of me is true.
5:33 Ye sent unto John, and he bare witness unto the truth.
5:34 But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I say, that ye might be saved.
5:35 He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light.
5:36 But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me.
5:37 And the Father himself, which hath sent me, hath borne witness of me. Ye have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his shape.
5:38 And ye have not his word abiding in you: for whom he hath sent, him ye believe not.
5:39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.
5:40 And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.
5:41 I receive not honour from men.
5:42 But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you.
5:43 I am come in my Father’s name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive.
5:44 How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only?
5:45 Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father: there is one that accuseth you, even Moses, in whom ye trust.
5:46 For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me.
5:47 But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?
Farewell promise to Jesus’ disciples 1 selections
John 14:15–31 KJV · In this guide
Context: Jesus’ farewell teaching joins love and obedience with the promised Spirit, explanation to Judas, remembrance of Jesus’ words, peace and his departure.
14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.
14:16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;
14:17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
14:18 I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.
14:19 Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also.
14:20 At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.
14:21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.
14:22 Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?
14:23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.
14:24 He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me.
14:25 These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you.
14:26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
14:28 Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.
14:29 And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe.
14:30 Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me.
14:31 But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.
Narrator’s purpose statement 1 selections
John 20:30–31 KJV · In this guide
Context: The Gospel’s explicit purpose statement follows the resurrection appearances and Thomas’s confession, explaining the selection of recorded signs.
Mission narrative 2 selections
Acts 8:26–40 KJV · In this guide
Context: The angel and Spirit direct Philip to an Ethiopian official reading Isaiah; his question about the servant leads to the proclamation of Jesus, baptism and joy.
8:26 And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.
8:27 And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship,
8:28 Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.
8:29 Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.
8:30 And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?
8:31 And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.
8:32 The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth:
8:33 In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth.
8:34 And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?
8:35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.
8:36 And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?
8:37 And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.
8:38 And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.
8:39 And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.
8:40 But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Cæsarea.
Acts 18:24–28 KJV · In this guide
Context: The full episode describes Apollos’ scriptural ability, limited knowledge of baptism, fuller instruction by Aquila and Priscilla, and fruitful ministry in Achaia.
18:24 And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus.
18:25 This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.
18:26 And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.
18:27 And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace:
18:28 For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publickly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ.
Mission narrative with explicit commendation 1 selections
Acts 17:1–15 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul’s argument from Scripture in Thessalonica sets the content of the message later examined at Berea; belief and renewed opposition lead to his departure.
17:1 Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews:
17:2 And Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures,
17:3 Opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ.
17:4 And some of them believed, and consorted with Paul and Silas; and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief women not a few.
17:5 But the Jews which believed not, moved with envy, took unto them certain lewd fellows of the baser sort, and gathered a company, and set all the city on an uproar, and assaulted the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people.
17:6 And when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren unto the rulers of the city, crying, These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also;
17:7 Whom Jason hath received: and these all do contrary to the decrees of Cæsar, saying that there is another king, one Jesus.
17:8 And they troubled the people and the rulers of the city, when they heard these things.
17:9 And when they had taken security of Jason, and of the other, they let them go.
17:10 And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews.
17:11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.
17:12 Therefore many of them believed; also of honourable women which were Greeks, and of men, not a few.
17:13 But when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people.
17:14 And then immediately the brethren sent away Paul to go as it were to the sea: but Silas and Timotheus abode there still.
17:15 And they that conducted Paul brought him unto Athens: and receiving a commandment unto Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with all speed, they departed.
Shared Christian instruction and canonical argument 1 selections
Romans 15:1–13 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul moves from bearing others’ weaknesses and Christ’s example to scriptural encouragement, mutual welcome, fulfilled promises and Gentile praise.
15:1 We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.
15:2 Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification.
15:3 For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me.
15:4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.
15:5 Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus:
15:6 That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
15:7 Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.
15:8 Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers:
15:9 And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name.
15:10 And again he saith, Rejoice, ye Gentiles, with his people.
15:11 And again, Praise the Lord, all ye Gentiles; and laud him, all ye people.
15:12 And again, Esaias saith, There shall be a root of Jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles trust.
15:13 Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
Apostolic argument and correction 1 selections
1 Corinthians 2:1–3:9 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul recalls proclaiming Christ crucified, explains the Spirit’s disclosure and reception of God’s wisdom, and rebukes the Corinthians’ factional immaturity while identifying teachers as servants.
2:1 And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.
2:2 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.
2:3 And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.
2:4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:
2:5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
2:6 Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought:
2:7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory:
2:8 Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
2:9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.
2:10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.
2:11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.
2:12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
2:13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
2:15 But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.
2:16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.
3:1 And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ.
3:2 I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able.
3:3 For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?
3:4 For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal?
3:5 Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?
3:6 I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.
3:7 So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.
3:8 Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour.
3:9 For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.
Apostolic prayer 1 selections
Ephesians 1:15–23 KJV · In this guide
Context: Thanksgiving leads to prayer for fuller knowledge of God’s hope, inheritance and power, exemplified in the risen and exalted Christ as head of the church.
1:15 Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints,
1:16 Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers;
1:17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:
1:18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,
1:19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,
1:20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,
1:21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:
1:22 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,
1:23 Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.
Apostolic explanation of revealed truth 1 selections
Ephesians 3:1–13 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul explains his ministry to the Gentiles, revelation of their shared inheritance in Christ, the written communication of that mystery, and the church’s place in God’s purpose.
3:1 For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles,
3:2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward:
3:3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,
3:4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)
3:5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;
3:6 That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:
3:7 Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.
3:8 Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;
3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:
3:10 To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,
3:11 According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:
3:12 In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.
3:13 Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.
Shared Christian instruction 1 selections
Colossians 3:12–17 KJV · In this guide
Context: The community is clothed in compassion, patience, forgiveness and love, and called to peace, rich indwelling of Christ’s word, mutual teaching, song and thanksgiving.
3:12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
3:13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
3:14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.
3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
3:17 And what soever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
Instruction to a minister 1 selections
1 Timothy 4:6–16 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul directs Timothy’s nourishment in sound teaching, godliness, public example, reading, exhortation and continuing care for himself and his hearers.
4:6 If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.
4:7 But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.
4:8 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.
4:9 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation.
4:10 For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe.
4:11 These things command and teach.
4:12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
4:13 Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.
4:14 Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.
4:15 Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.
4:16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
Ministerial instruction with analogies 1 selections
2 Timothy 2:1–13 KJV · In this guide
Context: Grace, transmission of teaching and endurance are developed through soldier, athlete and farmer comparisons, reflection, remembrance of the risen Jesus and the faithful saying.
2:1 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
2:2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
2:3 Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
2:4 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.
2:5 And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.
2:6 The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits.
2:7 Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things.
2:8 Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel:
2:9 Where in I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound.
2:10 Therefore I endure all things for the elect’s sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.
2:11 It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him:
2:12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us:
2:13 If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he can not deny himself.
Instruction to a teacher 1 selections
2 Timothy 2:14–26 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul contrasts accurate handling of truth with ruinous arguments and false resurrection teaching, then urges holiness, usefulness, patience and gentle correction.
2:14 Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.
2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
2:16 But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.
2:17 And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus;
2:18 Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.
2:19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
2:20 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.
2:21 If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master’s use, and prepared unto every good work.
2:22 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
2:23 But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.
2:24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,
2:25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;
2:26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.
Apostolic instruction to a minister 1 selections
2 Timothy 3:10–4:5 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul recalls his example and suffering, directs Timothy to continue in received truth and childhood Scripture, explains Scripture’s purpose, and charges him to teach patiently despite resistance.
3:10 But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,
3:11 Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me.
3:12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
3:13 But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
3:14 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;
3:15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
3:17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
4:1 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
4:3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
4:4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
4:5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
Theological argument and exhortation 1 selections
Hebrews 5:1–14 KJV · In this guide
Context: The comparison of ordinary priesthood with Christ’s calling and obedient suffering leads to the author’s explanation that dull hearing prevents fuller instruction.
5:1 For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins:
5:2 Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity.
5:3 And by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins.
5:4 And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron.
5:5 So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee.
5:6 As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.
5:7 Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared;
5:8 Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;
5:9 And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;
5:10 Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec.
5:11 Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing.
5:12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.
5:13 For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.
5:14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
Theological argument from Scripture 1 selections
Hebrews 10:1–18 KJV · In this guide
Context: Repeated sacrifices are contrasted with Christ’s obedient, single offering; the argument culminates in the Spirit’s witness through the promised covenant and the end of offerings for forgiven sin.
10:1 For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect.
10:2 For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins.
10:3 But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every year.
10:4 For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.
10:5 Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me:
10:6 In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure.
10:7 Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God.
10:8 Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law;
10:9 Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second.
10:10 By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
10:11 And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins:
10:12 But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God;
10:13 From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool.
10:14 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.
10:15 Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had said before,
10:16 This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them;
10:17 And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.
10:18 Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.
Shared Christian exhortation 1 selections
James 1:16–27 KJV · In this guide
Context: God’s good giving and life through the word lead to receptive conduct, meek reception, the mirror comparison, and concrete expressions of faithful religion.
1:16 Do not err, my beloved brethren.
1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
1:18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
1:19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
1:20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
1:21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.
1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
1:23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:
1:24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.
1:25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
1:26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain.
1:27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.
Apostolic testimony and argument 1 selections
2 Peter 1:16–21 KJV · In this guide
Context: The defense of the message about Christ recalls witnessed majesty and the heavenly voice, then explains why the prophetic word deserves attention.
1:16 For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty.
1:17 For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
1:18 And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount.
1:19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:
1:20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.
1:21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
Apostolic exhortation and warning 1 selections
2 Peter 3:1–18 KJV · In this guide
Context: The final chapter recalls prophetic and apostolic words, addresses scoffing at the promised coming, explains divine patience, and concludes with holy conduct, difficult Pauline letters, stability and growth.
3:1 This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance:
3:2 That ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour:
3:3 Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts,
3:4 And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.
3:5 For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water:
3:6 Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished:
3:7 But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.
3:8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.
3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
3:10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
3:11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness,
3:12 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?
3:13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
3:14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.
3:15 And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;
3:16 As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.
3:17 Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.
3:18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.
Pastoral instruction amid deceptive teaching 1 selections
1 John 2:18–29 KJV · In this guide
Context: John contrasts secession and denial of the Son with the readers’ received truth, anointing, abiding and righteous conduct.
2:18 Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time.
2:19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.
2:20 But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things.
2:21 I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth.
2:22 Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son.
2:23 Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: [but] he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also.
2:24 Let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father.
2:25 And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life.
2:26 These things have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you.
2:27 But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.
2:28 And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.
2:29 If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him.
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Sources & interpretation
The teaching starts with the cited Scripture. These consulted works inform wording, context, and interpretive questions. No qualified human review has been recorded for this guide.
What does Scripture’s inspiration establish in this passage?
Second Timothy 3:14–17 joins childhood Scripture, salvation through faith in Christ, divine inspiration, four uses and readiness for good works. Its next paragraph concerns Timothy’s teaching. Second Peter 3:15–16 discusses Paul’s letters with the other Scriptures.
- All Scripture is inspired and useful, with two descriptions predicated of Scripture; this is the KJV and the NET note’s defended reading.
- Every inspired Scripture is also useful, taking inspired as a modifier; Skinner notes the possible different constructions, while the NET argues against this one.
- All Scripture stresses the whole; every Scripture stresses each part, a difference the NET regards as slight in practical sense.
STRONG: The parallel-predicate reading fits the coordinated descriptions and their stated purpose. The main article affirms God-given Scripture and explains its saving and formative use. Timothy’s childhood writings chiefly concern Israel’s Scriptures; the passage is not itself a table of contents of the completed Christian canon. The guide uses the project’s pinned 66-book collection without claiming to settle canon formation or every doctrine of inspiration.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press · John Frederick · Matt Skinner
Further examination: How do verses 15 and 17 explain the purposes of the claims in verse 16, and what can be affirmed from this paragraph without making it answer questions it does not directly address?
How does the sentence about private interpretation fit Peter’s argument?
The KJV of 2 Peter 1:20 speaks of private interpretation; verse 21 begins with a reason about prophecy’s origin in the Spirit rather than human will. Verses 16–18 contrast eyewitness testimony with invented tales.
- The prophet does not originate or unfold the prophecy from his own resources; verse 21 explains its divine source.
- The reader must not impose a private interpretation on Scripture; the following chapter’s false teaching gives this reading a wider contextual argument.
- An individual prophecy cannot supply its own full explanation and must be read with the rest of Scripture.
PROBABLE on the precise force of verse 20: the origin reading best accounts for verse 21’s stated reason and the contrast with invention. STRONG on the explicit claim of verse 21 that the Spirit moved the speakers. The main teaching rests on that firmer statement. This passage alone does not establish a complete system of interpretive authority or a prohibition on ordinary believers reading Scripture.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press
Further examination: What does the word For at the start of verse 21 explain, and how does your proposed interpretation connect to the testimony and prophetic light of verses 16–19?
How can the Spirit teach while believers still need study and correction?
First Corinthians 2 centers on God’s revealed wisdom in the crucified Christ, followed by correction of believers in 3:1–9. First John 2 recalls what readers heard from the beginning while assuring them of the anointing. John 14:25–26 promises Jesus’ present disciples remembrance of what he said to them; Colossians 3 directs mutual teaching.
- Possession of the Spirit exempts each believer’s interpretation from correction or removes the need for teachers.
- The Spirit makes God’s saving truth known and enables its reception, while believers grow through the given testimony, reflection and faithful teaching.
- In 1 Corinthians 2, we refers especially to apostolic proclaimers in some clauses; alternatively, its scope also includes the believing community.
STRONG: The second reading fits the passages together and avoids transferring the inspiration of testimony into private infallibility. The exact extent of we in each clause and the translation of 1 Corinthians 2:13 remain narrower questions. The main article makes the revelation’s origin and Christ-centered content explicit. First John’s assurance does not cancel the act of instruction the letter itself performs. The guide does not decide continuationist/cessationist disputes or reduce all the Spirit’s work to a reading technique.
Further study: Bryan J. Whitfield · Biblical Studies Press
Further examination: What particular truth is revealed, remembered or retained in each passage, and what do the commands to consider, teach and receive correction show about how that truth is learned?
How can all Scripture instruct us without every command applying in the same way?
Joshua receives a land commission; Nehemiah’s assembly observes Israel’s feast. Luke 24 directs attention to Christ’s suffering, resurrection and forgiveness. Hebrews 10 uses earlier Scripture to explain the sufficiency of Christ’s offering. Romans 15 explicitly says earlier writings instruct the church.
- Every narrated practice or command becomes a direct command to every later reader.
- Earlier Scripture is now irrelevant to Christian conduct.
- Earlier Scripture remains God-given instruction, with its application understood through its audience, literary purpose, covenant setting and fulfillment in Christ.
STRONG: The third approach follows the explicit reasoning in Hebrews and Romans. Particular promises retain their recipients and purposes; inspired narratives communicate more than a list of actions to copy. Christians differ on some covenant applications, including Sabbath and food laws, which this guide does not attempt to settle. The sacrificial example is explicit enough to teach the distinction without importing an entire disputed system.
Further study: John Frederick · Patricia Tull · Emerson Powery
Further examination: Why does Hebrews conclude that no further offering for sin is needed, and how does that conclusion honor rather than discard the older promise it cites?
What sort of confidence and growth should a continuing reader expect?
Second Peter acknowledges hard material while directing stability and growth. Hebrews reproves dull hearing and commends practiced discernment. Luke’s good soil holds the word and bears fruit patiently. The flourishing tree of Psalm 1 and the afflicted learner of Psalm 119 belong together.
- A faithful reader should immediately understand every text and experience visible success.
- Difficult texts excuse neglect of learning and of what is already clear.
- Faithful reading can produce increasing understanding and obedience while requiring patience, help and perseverance amid unresolved questions and affliction.
STRONG: The third reading retains each passage’s actual claims. The tree is a wisdom portrait of the righteous way; Joshua’s successful mission is particular; Luke’s fruit belongs to persevering reception of the kingdom word. No schedule, word count, or guarantee of material prosperity is imposed. The guide does not settle Hebrews 6’s apostasy debate or make the presence of a difficult question evidence of unbelief.
Further examination: What response does each passage ask of someone who has heard, and which promised or described outcomes belong to that response rather than to a technique for completing more reading?
- Commentary on 2 Timothy 3:14—4:5
John Frederick · Working Preacher / Luther Seminary · 2016-10-16
Connects Israel’s Scriptures, salvation in Christ and equipped conduct.
What was reviewed
Complete commentary body, from the opening on childhood Scripture through the final paragraph on the church; especially the paragraphs on 3:15 and 3:17. Accessed 2026-09-25.
His wider formulations about the church bringing salvation are not made premises here. The BDAG entry he cites was not independently read.
- Commentary on 2 Timothy 3:14—4:5
Matt Skinner · Working Preacher / Luther Seminary · 2013-10-20
Emphasizes perseverance, inherited teaching, Scripture’s usefulness and patient ministry; flags syntax questions in 3:16.
What was reviewed
Complete body: introductory recap, Exhortations Renewed, and all three numbered portions of Preaching the Message of Second Timothy. Accessed 2026-09-25.
The main article keeps Timothy’s particular commission distinct from shared duties. Modern illustrations and speculative historical conclusions are not adopted.
- NET Bible: 2 Timothy 3:16, notes 1–3
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible
Prefers every individual Scripture and argues that inspired and useful are parallel predicates; clarifies reproof.
What was reviewed
Verse rendering and all three notes on the compact passage page; recovered after the longer verse page failed on follow-up access. Accessed 2026-09-25.
A concise translator argument, not a full commentary. No independent lexicon or manuscript survey is claimed.
- NET Bible: 2 Peter 1:20, notes 1–3
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible
Explains the origin reading through the connection between verses 20 and 21 and reports alternatives about reader, passage and prophet.
What was reviewed
Verse and all three notes, including the full extended interpretation and study-note continuation of note 3. Accessed 2026-09-25.
Broad denominational generalizations in the note are not treated as verified descriptions. Its grammatical account was inspected, but cited background scholarship was not independently consulted.
- Commentary on Nehemiah 8:1–3, 5–6, 8–10
Patricia Tull · Working Preacher / Luther Seminary · 2016-01-24
Reads the account as communal reading with interpretation, shared rejoicing and continued attention.
What was reviewed
Complete body and note identifying original publication on 2013-01-27; especially the paragraphs beginning with Ezra’s reappearance and the reading’s continuation, and the final discussion of joy. Accessed 2026-09-25.
Textual-compositional suggestions, exact gate location, later Jewish practice and the modern anecdote are not adopted. No claim that translation into Aramaic is established by the passage.
- Commentary on Acts 8:26–40
J. R. Daniel Kirk · Working Preacher / Luther Seminary · 2018-04-29
Relates Philip’s explanation to Luke 24 and notices that Acts does not give his full sermon.
What was reviewed
Complete body, including The wrong people, The suffering servant, Inclusion and surprise, and its note. Accessed 2026-09-25.
The guide does not adopt the claim that the apostles failed their task, a comprehensive denial of substitutionary atonement in Luke-Acts, or an unrecorded later African mission. The source’s Luke 22:47 locator for the centurion is erroneous; that event is in Luke 23:47.
- Commentary on Matthew 4:1–11
Judith Jones · Working Preacher / Luther Seminary · 2014-03-09
Explains Jesus’ faithful sonship through the original settings of his scriptural answers.
What was reviewed
Complete commentary body, with particular attention to the bread/Deuteronomy 8 paragraph and the Psalm 91–Deuteronomy 6–Massah connection. Accessed 2026-09-25.
Her imagined rhetorical questions, political framing and suggestion that angelic ministry implies a meal are not adopted. The guide derives its bounded application from the quoted biblical texts.
- NET Bible: 2 Timothy 2:15, translation and note 1
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible
Checks diligence and accurate handling of the message against older KJV wording.
What was reviewed
Verse page’s NET and comparison renderings and the complete single study note. Accessed 2026-09-25.
The road-cutting image is one explanation of the figure; the main article uses the functional meaning without claiming a settled concrete background.
- Commentary on Matthew 5:13–20
Emerson Powery · Working Preacher / Luther Seminary · 2011-02-06
Emphasizes Jesus’ continuing regard for the law and interprets fulfillment in relation to faithful practice.
What was reviewed
Complete body: opening orientation, Matthew 5:13–16, Matthew 5:17–20, and Summary for Preaching. Accessed 2026-09-25.
Its interpretation emphasis informs the review but is not treated as the only sense of fulfillment. Historical generalizations about Pharisees and the cited Josephus passages were not independently investigated.
- Commentary on 1 Corinthians 2:1–12 [13–16]
Bryan J. Whitfield · Working Preacher / Luther Seminary · 2026-02-08
Locates spiritual understanding in God’s disclosed saving purpose and reads the Corinthians’ immaturity against claims to wisdom.
What was reviewed
Complete body: Paul’s ministry, God’s plan, The Spirit’s revelation, and concluding preaching implications. Accessed 2026-09-25.
His identification of an unknown apocalyptic quotation source and broader account of ancient teaching stages are not used. The revelation/study contrast concerns the origin of God’s plan and is not extended into a ban on attentive study.
- NET Bible: 1 John 2:27, notes 1–7
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible
Identifies the anointing with the Spirit and reads the sentence as reassurance before the exhortation in verse 28.
What was reviewed
Verse rendering and all seven notes, including note 7’s indicative/imperative comparison. Accessed 2026-09-25.
The slightly preferred indicative and probable referent of pronouns remain qualified; neither settles church authority or makes private interpretations infallible.