We should not be dismayed by the obvious fact that the world is presently full of terrible happenings that become increasingly alarming in their intensity. The scriptures have already stated in 2 Timothy 3:1 that these difficult times would come and that the world will grow increasingly unaccommodating and violent. It is all as a result of increased sin and disobedience to God’s commands.
Despite this, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. (Psalm 23:4).
The word of God is his rod and staff and makes it clear that If we are willing and obedient to the word as laid out in the scriptures we shall eat the good of the land (Isaiah 1:19).
Without knowledge of God’s promises, there would be no hope or assurance. “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17).
Increased Bible literacy will awaken and strengthen the faith of many and put them in a good position to glorify Christ Jesus our Lord. In this path lies great joy and freedom from the shackles of the devil as Jesus said, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32).
There is no joy that compares to having our prayers requests come to fruition. Knowing the Lord Jesus Christ through knowledge of the Bible will result in answered prayer.
Jesus said, “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you” (John 15:7). It is only through knowledge of God’s word that we will not pray amiss. The words of Christ must dwell in us if our prayers are to be effective. Study, memorization, obedience and application of the Word of God Is the key to answered prayer.
In the Celestial Church of Christ, there is a need for us to progressively increase the level of Bible literacy so that we will breed mature followers of Christ who will commit to a lifestyle of letting the word of God dwell richly in them.
A few minutes Sermon a few times a week is not enough time in the word of God and more Bible study is needed. The Psalmist said, “Oh how I love your law! It is my meditation all the day” (Psalm 119:97).
He develops further on the importance of delving deep into the word of God by saying; “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither, and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper” ( Psalm 1:1-3).
The Celestial Church is divinely descended from Heaven and we are the custodians of the Holy Spirit. Greater promotion of Bible literacy in the Celestial Church of Christ will not only strengthen the Church but also be the foundation for more evangelism. This is the way forward to tell the nations the good news about Christ and thereby cleanse the whole world.
