A Prayer to Embrace the Gift of Community Bible Study - Your Daily Prayer- July 27
A Prayer to Embrace the Gift of Community Bible Study
By: Laura Bailey
Bible Reading:
“How can I,” he said, “unless someone explains to me? So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. - Acts 8:31 NIV
Listen or Read Below:
Have you ever read a passage of Scripture and felt completely lost?
I once read that the Bible is written at a level that an elementary-age child could read and comprehend—if that’s the case, then perhaps I need to head back to grade school. I believe the statement was intended to convey that God’s Word is available and applicable to children and adults alike. The message is for everyone, at all times. And while there are passages of Scripture that are clear, easily digested, and share a clear takeaway. But what about the other parts (books)? Of the Bible, which passages are more difficult to comprehend, interpret, and relate to our lives?
One of the best resources is other Christians.
The story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch, though not often cited as a key text on discipleship, beautifully illustrates the practice of coming alongside someone to deepen their understanding of Scripture. Philip, a deacon and evangelist (Acts 6:5), was returning to Jerusalem when an angel redirected him toward Gaza. There he met an Ethiopian official returning from worship in Jerusalem; prompted by the Spirit, Philip approached him. The Ethiopian was reading Isaiah 53 aloud (a common practice at the time), allowing Philip to recognize it and offer to explain it.
Philip asked the Ethiopian eunuch if he understood what he was reading. Though it may sound rude to modern ears, Philip’s question came from genuine concern. The eunuch worshiped God and knew Judaism but likely lacked a full grasp of the Hebrew Scriptures—especially Messianic passages—because he was reading a Greek translation and lacked a Jewish cultural background. In today’s terms, it would be like reading an older Bible translation; the text could be understood, but was harder to interpret without support. The Eunuch is eager to accept Philip’s help and says in Acts 8:31, “How can I,” he said, “unless someone explains to me? So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him.”
We can take away a few things from this interaction. First, the importance of listening, then acting, when the Holy Spirit speaks to our hearts. Second, spiritual knowledge is transferable. It is a privilege to share God’s Word with others. Believers with a mature faith are commanded to support and teach others in the faith (Titus 2:3-4; Ephesians 4:12-13). Third, God’s Word is meant to be studied in community; part of “making disciples” is engaging in active Bible study together. Only God’s Word is infallible (without error), and there is a chance of error in human teaching. Still, the Holy Spirit has gifted numerous men and women with the ability to rightly interpret and unpack Scripture, helping others grow in biblical knowledge.
If you are new to the faith, or if you have a background in Christianity but are new to studying the Bible, there’s no shame in asking for help to understand difficult passages of Scripture. Utilizing tools and supplementing your Bible reading with commentaries, sermons, and conversations with other Christians are all part of growing in your understanding of God’s Word. And if you are a more seasoned Christ-follower, look for opportunities to share what God has taught you, the tools you’ve used to understand Scripture, and invest in teaching someone how to study and apply God’s timeless Truths to their lives.
As a result of Philip taking the time to go through Isaiah 53, the eunuch accepts Christ and then gets baptized! While Philip saw the immediate, eternal impact that God’s Word had on this man’s life, not all of our interactions will produce instant results. But let us hold to the truth the prophet encourages in Isaiah 55:11, “so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”
Let’s Pray:
Heavenly Father, I am so grateful for the gift of the body of believers. How wonderful to know that I am not only saved for all eternity, but was adopted into a family of believers when I accepted Christ. Help me embrace the gifts of community Bible Study, corporate worship, and personal Bible study.
Lord, when I have questions or am wrestling with the text, I ask that the Holy Spirit guide and direct me to proper understanding and application. When I see others who need support, may I come alongside them and impart biblical wisdom. Please help us to humbly serve others through teaching, discipleship, service, and love. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/pcess609
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