Topical Study 101

Last week we discussed giving advice on helping people pick their first book in the Bible to read, today I thought we should look at topical studies. Topical studies help us understand and build on connecting the whole of the Bible. Each book of the Bible points to Jesus, and each topic helps us understand the applicability of Jesus in our own life, John 5:39 “You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me.” Topical studies can help us better understand specific challenges and also expound on comprehending how God has not changed. Malachi 3:6 “For I, the LORD, do not change; therefore you, O sons of Jacob, are not consumed.” When we examine what topical studies do, we can better understand the applicable nature of God’s Word. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 “16 All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; 17 so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.”

This doesn’t mean that a book of the Bible is not applicable, but rather a topical study gives us the liberty to have our curiosity. I will use myself as an example. I have just finished Ecclesiastes in my personal Bible study, but I read each of the gospels continuously. While in the first chapter of Luke I thought it was interesting regarding verse 66 “All who heard them kept them in mind, saying, “What then will this child turn out to be?” For the hand of the Lord was certainly with him.” I wanted to know any other times the Bible said “For the hand of the Lord was certainly with him.” So now I am examining any of the times in the Old and New Testament that God was with a person and if there is a difference based on the examples given. While I do not have an answer yet, this topical study should help me better understand God’s providence.

So now why do I bring this up? Last week we discussed giving Bible study advice regarding a book. At times we need to recognize that God has given us the entire Bible connected and perfect. Thus we can cross examine with as much scrutiny as we can to further build our understanding of God and also His will in our life. So please take some time and see that every now and then we should allow our God given curiosity to see what scripture tells us. When someone asks you what they should study in the Bible, take a moment to understand what is interesting to them and point them towards that. In the end it will all lead back to a better understanding of Jesus. The scripture points to Him no matter if you are doing a book study or topical.

So lets get studying!

Hold until relieved, our Blessed Hope is coming,

JL