Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
Studying the word:
Paul tells us the main purpose of studying God’s word is to show our self approved unto God (dokimos, certified, approved, genuine). In Bible times coins were all metal and soft. They were molded from molten gold or silver and many people would shave the coins and keep the shavings to eventually make new coin. Those who were men of integrity would accept only full weight coins and these coins were called dokimos – approved.
Paul says we are to study in order to be full weight before God – acceptable to Him. We are to study all of God’s word, not just parts of it we like. All Scripture is from God (2 Tim 3:16) and is true and accurate. Not every word is God’s speaking, but it is a record of what God and others said and it is true and accurate. It is not a science book but when it speaks of science it is true and accurate. It is not a complete history of man but in areas that it records historical facts it is true and accurate.
The word for study means “to exert yourself” not just a simple looking at but serious thought and examination of it. God is not afraid for man to closely scrutinize His word because it is pure, right and holy (Psa 119:140; Prov 30:5; Psa 18:30; 19:8).
Rightly dividing God’s word:
God says what He means and means what He says; to rightly divide means to make straight cuts, proper divisions of the word (1 Cor 2:13) not interpreting it as we desire but allowing the word to interpret itself (1 Pet 1:20). As we read and study the word ask God’s Spirit to enlighten us and open our eyes to see truths that we need (Psa 119:17-18). Do not refuse to accept what God says in His word, but allow it to say what it says without out bending or twisting it to make it say what we want (2 Pet 3:16; James 1:8).
One primary interpretation:
There is only one interpretation to Scripture but there are many applications from which we can learn and grow in our spiritual walk – 1 Tim 5:18; 1 Cor 9:7-14; Deut 25:4. There are spiritual principles in the normal application of Scripture relating to the natural – 2 Cor 6:14; Deut 22:9-11. God’s word is inexhaustible and we can never completely apply Scripture, but as God gives us insight we can apply it to our life or situation.
Examining the word:
When we try to understand what is being said we should first consider the text and see who is speaking, to whom and also try to understand some of the customs of that time and culture i.e. parables like Sower and seed or the woman washing Jesus’ feet with her tears. We should also consider the context if it is applicable (verses before and after the text); look at parallel passages. Once we have done this we can seek good Bible dictionaries or commentaries. Studying the original language, using an interlinear or language helps – being sure they are not using corrupted texts. Above all seeking God’s help during all our study and allowing His Spirit to guide us.
We will never understand all of Scripture or exhaust its truth, but we can know much and understand much with God’s help provided we also apply it to our own life.