Part 3: The Anatomy of the Bible: The Instruction Manual | Teaching Kids How to Study God's Word

The Anatomy of the Bible: The Instruction Manual

In Second Timothy 3, Paul shares a heartfelt encouragement to his young protégé. He opens his life up allow Timothy to examine it, the way he lived, his purpose for living and what he endured. He explained that the persecution he suffered was because he lived a godly life which is the course of life for all who live righteously. Then Paul makes, for me at least, one of the most profound statements regarding the absolute necessity for the Word of God as recorded in the Bible.

“... the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly equipped for all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:15-17

What a beautiful message. The Bible, that decorates the coffee table, sits tucked away in the hotel room draw, records the names of the family tree, yes that book holds the key to a righteous life. It is not just good for surviving but for thriving in this sin filled world.

Too often I hear the phrase, “Life did not come with an instruction manual”. Or “I wish children came with an instruction manual.” What is the Bible then? According to Paul it is profitable, beneficial, useful, advantageous, illuminating, informative and all the other synonyms showing how it can and will guide us in raising God-fearing, righteous children.

In “The Love Series” we talk about the love of God, love for God, love for others and the love of self. We explored how important it is to teach our children to genuinely seek God as he will supply them with true love that they can then go out and genuinely love others, fostering healthy relationships that will in turn lead others back to God. It is because of the Bible, the guiding of the Holy Spirit, as we read and teach them that Bible that they will develop that relationship with God, embrace through faith what Jesus has done and then be changed into the character of God.

Wow, what an important, imperative book. Dive into it and see where God takes you. Here are a few tips to get you started.

Tip 1: Start reading the Bible. Ask for the Holy Spirit who will guide you into all truth. Download our list of Bible verses by topic for reference.

Tip 2: Try committing passages to memory. Start with the Psalms, after all they are poems and songs. Proverbs is another great choice. Here’s a helpful Bible verse of the week activity that will help your children have fun while learning Bible verses.

Tip 3: Do what it says. Do activities with your children that allow them to see the Bible verses in action. For example, learn Bible verses about obedience and find kid friendly activities about obedience.