About comments

"What you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust it to faithful men who are able in turn to teach others." 2 Timothy 2

Yesterday we emphasized the importance of reading the Bible and seeking by oneself, with the help of the Holy Spirit, the meaning of what one reads.

Today's verse shows that this personal search is not the only way to progress in the knowledge of the Bible. Faithful brothers can instruct us orally in assembly meetings or in personal interviews. Appreciate those brothers who go to great lengths to communicate to others the understanding they have themselves received from the texts studied.

Other brothers have been eager to communicate this in writing, in the form of comments on this or that book of the Bible. Some are difficult and others are more accessible. Some are practically usable only with an open Bible beside you ; others are easier to read because the author has found it useful to paraphrase the text in a very readable or pictorial form.

These comments are numerous today and we can be grateful to have the opportunity to have them in Bible centers, Christian bookstores or also via the Internet. However, it is important to be attentive.

- A first difficulty lies in the choice of books that will be useful. No rule can really be given ; in general, one is guided by a believer who has already appreciated the value of an author, a series of studies or the seriousness of a publishing house.

- The second is the use we make of these works. Indeed, what is important is not the opinion of the author or the interpretation he gives of certain passages of the Bible. The important thing is that reading the comments helps us to better understand God's thinking.

Let us read without prejudice what the author presents, but at the same time verify the accuracy of his remarks by other passages of the Bible. God expressly asks us to do it : "Put everything to the test ; remember what is good "(1 Thessalonians 5: 21). It emphasizes the noble attitude of the believers of the city of Berea who "received the Word (by Paul) with all good will, examining the Scriptures daily to see if it was so" (Act 17. 11).

Thank God for all that he puts at our disposal and remember that without the action of the Holy Spirit in us, no book will really communicate to us the divine thoughts.

Source (Pleasing the Lord)