Bible Literacy: Getting the Most Out of God’s Word
“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment”. (Matthew 22:36-38)
As believers, loving God with all our heart and soul seems simple to understand. But what does it mean to love God with all our mind? It might look like correcting our thoughts to line up with His desires (Romans 12:1-2) or redirecting our attention to focus on the good (Philippians 4:8-9). An important interpretation that’s often overlooked is using our minds to lean into the depth of God’s word.
Biblical literacy – knowing, articulating, and understanding scripture – is a central part of loving God with our minds. The bible guides us into knowledge of who God is and what He’s done. Just like any other field of study, learning the bible requires work. And we’re blessed enough in our day and age to have a plethora of resources that can help us out. Here are a few simple tips for getting the most out of the scriptures and digging deeper into the treasures of God’s word:
1. Know what it says
It’s easy to think we already know exactly what the bible says. But when we read it thoroughly, we see what truly is and isn’t there. Consistently observing scripture using the lens of exegesis (reading the text for its intended meaning) is a way to become a student of the bible and hear what God wants you to know about Himself. Whether you read a chapter a day or listen to scripture on your morning commute, build a consistent discipline for thoughtful engagement with God’s word. Carve out a set time, number of scriptures, or specific place where you can buckle down and take it in.
2. Know what it means
The biblical writers used a mixture of styles in their work: historical narrative, poetry, songs, you name it. Contextualizing what you’re reading will help you know how to interpret it, painting a clearer picture of the narrative inside. Reading Romans? Gather information about Paul’s original audience, the timeframe of its authorship, and the genre he’s working within. It might be an investment, but a good study bible goes a long way! Interpreting God’s word to understand better what it means takes your bible literacy to a whole new level.
3. Live it out with others
You really know something when you’re able to live it out. The same goes for the word of God. Live out what you’re learning in meaningful fellowship with those around you. Whether it’s joining your church’s bible study or trading favorite scriptures with a friend, the best way to live and learn the bible is in community. Ask questions, exchange ideas, and get clarity from those around you who are also leaning into the study of God’s word. This creates room for accountability and grace, fostering safe spaces to ask life’s tough questions without judgment.
Knowing what the word says, interpreting it for clarity, and living it out with and for others can make us everyday theologians – good servants who love God with all our heart, soul, and mind.