Here’s a basic but good reminder: Christians need to study Scripture. We’ve begun a new year. Why not resolve to do it in 2021? There are at least three reasons why. These are not meant to be the top three reasons or the most important ones. They are just three reasons that came to mind.
First, as an ambassador for Christ (2 Cor. 5:20), we need to know our Sovereign. If our role is to represent Christ, then we need to know his views and the message he wants to convey to the world. Studying Scripture is one of the best ways to do that. As Greg Koukl says, “You don’t need to be a theologian, but you can’t know nothing.”
Second, by studying Scripture and learning the truth, it becomes easier to spot the error. You’ve probably heard the story of how federal agents learn to spot counterfeit bills. They don’t study fake money. Rather, they study real bills so that when a counterfeit comes along, they easily spot it. The same is true with recognizing false ideas. One of the best ways to protect yourself from being duped by counterfeit theology is to study Scripture. Learning to recognize false ideas is beneficial for two reasons: so you don’t succumb to false ideas (Col. 2:8), and so you can destroy false ideas (2 Cor. 10:3–5).
Third, Scripture informs our life decisions. If you’re a Christian, there’s a very good chance you will attempt to base life decisions (both minor and major ones) on the Christian worldview. The first step to deepen your understanding of the faith is to read and study the Bible. This should not be a goal. It’s a lifestyle.
I’d like to add one final thought. Since you’re going to be reading the Bible, why not also take time to learn how to properly interpret it? Your Bible study is only as good as your interpretive method. The good news is that reading the Bible properly requires rules you probably already know. Now, go do it!