Paul told Timothy, “Be diligent” (or “do your best”) to present himself to God as an approved worker, “rightly handling” God’s word (2 Timothy 2:15). That’s not a word only for preachers. It’s for all of us. If it’s possible to “rightly handle” Scripture, then it’s also possible to mishandle, misunderstand, or misapply it. And since our lives must be presented to God in a way he approves, God’s word must be at the center of how we live.
Psalm 1 illustrates what that looks like. The blessed person doesn’t align with the wicked, but “delights” in the law of the Lord and “meditates” on it day and night (Psalm 1:1–3). Meditation involves more than just hearing or reading passively; it’s about taking the word into your mind, turning it over, and allowing it to shape you. Jesus also says, “The word that I have spoken will judge him on the last day” (John 12:48, ESV). Therefore, we need to know his words, live by them, and teach them (Matt 28:19–20). Over time, Christians should grow to the point where we can help others learn as well (Hebrews 5:12–13).
Bible Class Facilitates Personal Growth
Bible class provides a focused chance to learn and grow. Yes, we study alone, and we need to. But none of us can cover everything at once. In a class setting, we can learn from others' insights. Sometimes, someone makes an observation you’ve never thought of, even in a passage you’ve read many times. Classes also help us improve as teachers. Knowing a lot and teaching well are not the same. Watching committed teachers handle a text teaches us not just the content but also the method. And classes help us become better apologists, ready to give a reason for our hope “with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15).
Bible Class Fosters Communal Unity
Acts 2 shows the early Christians devoted to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, spending time together daily (Acts 2:42–47). Much of the New Testament was written to be heard in community. Paul even instructed churches to read letters to one another (Colossians 4:16). When we read, study, and talk together, we develop a shared understanding of what it means to follow Christ together. That strengthens unity and builds congregational identity.
Bible Class Fuels Mutual Encouragement
Hebrews 10 teaches us to encourage one another to love and good works, “not neglecting to meet together,” but inspiring each other (Hebrews 10:24–25). Our presence motivates. Our absence discourages, especially when people have prepared to teach and others simply choose not to come. Mutual attendance confirms that this matters and helps us “pump life” into one another for the tough days ahead.
Bible Class Furthers a Shared Witness
Participation also sends a message to outsiders. If a visitor comes and only a few people show up, what does that say about how important Bible study is? Joint participation, however, affirms that we don’t follow Christ “in a corner.” It demonstrates a faith that isn’t marginal and a commitment that goes beyond the minimum.
Concluding Observations
Elders, or shepherds, who must “feed the flock,” set designated times for us to study God’s word together. Those times are a gift. Hebrews 13:17 reminds us to support and submit to the elders as they work for our souls. We can lighten their burden by respecting the times they’ve set aside for us. Let’s read our Bibles daily. Let’s be present and punctual. Let’s prepare ahead of time, stay attentive, and help each other attend. And let’s invite visitors to share in the blessings with us.
Watch to a sermon on The Benefits of Attending Bible Class here
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