Some reject knowledge as declared in Hosea 4:6 and Peter speaks of some being willingly ignorant, II Pet.3:5. A vivid contrast of open and closed minds is found in Matt. 13:10-16. The Ethiopian treasurer had an open mind, Acts 8:31. We must be willing to do God's will,Jhn 7:17. We must not only be willing to do God's wil, but also obedient to his will, Matt.7:21.
III
Love the truth.
If a person doesn't love the truth,God will send him a strong delusion that he might believe a lie and be dammed, II Thess. 2: 10-12. This principle applies both to those outside and inside the church. We must not be afraid to face the facts on any Bible subject,but strive to grow in grace and knowledge,II Pet.3:18. One definition of education is tearing down old ideas and forming new. We must be willing to discard an old idea when we see that it is false, and accept a new truth when it is taught in the Bible.
IV.
Study and not just merely read.
Take time to look up words that are not understood, for example: a good Bible dict. or a Concordance will help;
V.
Consider the setting of the text.
Whether it be a verse,a chapter,or a book of the Bible; the context should always be considered. Observe who is speaking; to whom he is speaking,or writing; the main theme or purpose in view,and under which dispensation the passage was spoken or written.
Some commands were to the Apostles only. They were commanded to tarry in Jerusalem until they be endued with power from on high,Lk. 24:49. convicted and believing sinners were commanded to "Repent and be baptized... for remission of sin, Acts 2: 38. christians were never commanded to be baptized. Those who are children of God are to repent,confess,and pray for fogiveness, Acts. 8:22,I Jhn. 1:9.
