This word ‘study’ requires a word of explanation. Bible study, by both brothers and sisters, is quite valueless without the fruits of study working in our lives for good. Striving to learn for the sake of learning is not our object, but rather studying to show ourselves approved unto God, workmen that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
It is generally accepted that brothers young, and not so young, devote a portion of their time to Scripture study. The most obvious reason for this is undoubtedly the responsibilities to ecclesial participation in exhortation and lecture work. However, duty or obligation are not the only motives, for we observe in many instances the immeasurable relaxation, pleasure and knowledge many of our brethren have gained through their endeavors to learn more of the revealed word.
But how do sisters fare in this respect? It does not take very long to discover how quickly we can run out of words when discussing Biblical topics. We may contemplate how nice it would be to become more articulate on the missionary journeys of Paul or the crucial verses in our defense against the ‘personal devil’, etc. Perhaps in the course of the readings in Acts we have been arrested by such names as Luke, Barnabas, Timothy, and Mark and wondered who accompanied Paul and when, and for how long !
Could we answer these relatively simple questions at once or would a dash to the Bible dictionary prove a savior? At the present time increasing our knowledge of the Scriptures may appear quite unimportant or unnecessary. Most of us attend ecclesias in which we find a sufficient number of learned brethren who can adequately answer most of our questions. The thought of sitting down with book and pencil in hand can indeed be most unappealing when time makes so many other demands. Before we are aware of it we are excusing our negligence and possibly even justifying it. Let us take stock of ourselves NOW and introduce regular Bible study periods into our daily schedule. Although we know that merely a collection of facts and data stored in the recesses of our minds will not assure an entrance into the Kingdom, we do know that wise men lay up knowledge, and knowledge leads to wisdom and understanding. Let us recall Solomon’s choice when he asked for an ‘understanding heart’ rather than wealth. This pleased God then and it pleases Him today. Now we can begin to see why it is important for sisters also to study.
Let us examine some portions of Scripture about our sisters of long ago. In the last chapter of Romans we read of a sister called Phoebe, a servant of the Cenchrean ecclesia, who succored many. Similarly we often read the name Priscilla, who with her husband Aquila instructed many of the early Christians. Other women are also mentioned with particular reference to their outstanding labors for the Lord. We can safely surmise that these women did not attain this stature in Jesus through meager devotion to the Word. Suppose we should find ourselves confronted with the exigency of assuming the duty of presiding or exhorting due to the lack of any available brother. The amount of ease with which we could carry out this task would certainly be gauged by our familiarity with Scripture.
Most of us attend weekly sisters classes which provide a fine opportunity for sound discussion and questions in an informal atmosphere. This is an excellent way to help others through our studies of the Word. For young sisters, especially those who are not married, the time is indeed more plenteous for Scripture study. For some, this idea seems almost insurmountable because of the immensity and diversity of its contents. Bro. Barling suggested a good way to start. Take one subject, study it directly from the Bible and refer to any qualified writings on the topic. Write an outline of the important facts and review it sufficiently to commit it to memory. Not until this is accomplished should another thought be undertaken. This is a good systematic approach ; a way to help us ‘begin.’
In addition to ecclesial responsibilities there is another and more important reason w h y sisters should study. We must “be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh a reason of our hope.” Are our “feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace ?” Will there be enough oil in our lamps to share it with others when they turn to us in the troubles time to come ?
As young women, we are making many plans and preparations in our lives. We prepare for a job, for marriage. We collect many things for our future homes and in every way strive for a happy and peaceful existence. This is good and commendable if we also include regular Bible studies and make them an active part of our lives. “Blessed is the man who delights in the law of the Lord, and in his law doth meditate both day and night.”
The Origin of the Organic World – Part One