In 2 Corinthians 3:6 (NKJV), it tells us that God “made us sufficient as ministers of the new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.” This verse reveals a powerful truth: the Word of God is not meant to be approached as a legal document alone, but as a living message that must be received through the Spirit.
There are two ways to study Scripture: through the letter and through the Spirit. The Jews in Jesus’ day were diligent students of the Scriptures. In John 5:39 (NKJV), Jesus says, “You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me.” They were searching for answers yet missing the very One to whom the Scriptures pointed to … Jesus. They approached the Word to support their traditions and conclusions, rather than to encounter the living God.
In John 8:47 (NKJV), Jesus clarifies the issue: “He who is of God hears God’s words; therefore you do not hear, because you are not of God.” Studying the Word to confirm our own biases is not of God. Scripture is not meant to be twisted to justify our own will. Instead, it is a divine conversation with a holy God who speaks to those with open and humble hearts.
John 7:17 (NKJV) adds another key, “If anyone wills to do His will, he shall know concerning the doctrine, whether it is from God or whether I speak on My own authority.” Knowing the truth of God’s Word begins with a heart that is willing to obey. Revelation flows from a relationship rooted in humility and surrender.
As believers, we must approach Scripture like newborn babes, as 1 Peter 2:2 (NKJV) which says, “desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.” It is not through intellect alone that we grow, but through the Spirit working in our yielded hearts.
Finally, 2 Peter 1:19 (NKJV) reminds us that we have “the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place ….” The Word, when received by the Spirit, becomes light that guides, reveals, and transforms. It pierces darkness and awakens us to the presence of Christ. For when we have the light … Jesus, we will see the truth and the truth will set us free.
As we study the Word, may we do so with a hunger for truth, a willingness to obey, and a heart that longs to encounter Jesus.
Pastor Keith Hair is a staff member of Lord of Hosts Church.
