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First Principles · Pilot Edition · Study 3 of 11

The Word of God

A self-guided Bible study. Read the passages for yourself, then write down your own answers, questions and conclusions.

Day 1

What can God's Word do?

Read

• Hebrews 4:12-13 - Read NIV on YouVersion

Think about it

1. How is God's word described?

2. What does it reveal?

3. Why might being completely known by God be uncomfortable?

4. Why might it also be helpful?

Day 2

Where does Scripture come from?

Read

• 2 Timothy 3:16-17 - Read NIV on YouVersion

Think about it

1. What does Paul claim about Scripture?

2. What purposes does he give for it?

3. What is the intended result?

4. What would it mean to actually use Scripture in these ways?

Day 3

Belief and behaviour

Read

• 1 Timothy 4:15-16 - Read NIV on YouVersion

Think about it

1. What two things is Timothy told to watch closely?

2. Why do you think both matter?

3. What does perseverance look like?

4. What could happen if someone's beliefs and life move in different directions?

Day 4

What makes someone a disciple?

Read

• John 8:31-32 - Read NIV on YouVersion

Think about it

1. Who is Jesus speaking to?

2. What condition does He put after belief?

3. How does Jesus describe a disciple?

4. What connection does He make between teaching, truth and freedom?

Day 5

Taking Jesus' words seriously

Read

• John 12:47-48 - Read NIV on YouVersion

Think about it

1. Why does Jesus say He came?

2. What happens when His words are rejected?

3. What authority does Jesus give His message?

4. What response would make sense if His claim is true?

Day 6

Scripture, tradition and ourselves

Read

• Mark 7:6-9 - Read NIV on YouVersion

• Proverbs 3:5 - Read NIV on YouVersion

• Proverbs 14:12 - Read NIV on YouVersion

Think about it

1. What danger does Jesus identify?

2. Can religious traditions ever compete with what Scripture says?

3. What warning do the Proverbs give about relying entirely on our own judgement?

4. How could someone test their beliefs honestly?