“Bible literacy matters because it protects us from falling into error. Both the false teacher and the secular humanist rely on biblical ignorance for their messages to take root, and the modern church has proven fertile ground for those messages. Because we do not know our Bibles, we crumble at the most basic challenges to our worldview. Disillusionment and apathy eat away at our ranks. Women, in particular, are leaving the church in unprecedented numbers.” -Jen Wilkins
This switch has helped me stay accountable for studying a whole book of scripture. It keeps me focused on what I'm reading and studying. Sometimes I can't even remember which books I've studied and which books I haven't. I'm excited for long term progress with the bible binder. I can keep track of what I've studied and how long ago.
Jen Wilkin suggests to not use commentaries or outside sources the first time you read a text. Once you've read it a few times and need help clarifying something then you can look at outside sources. She advocates for the struggle; not understanding, re-readings, and pushing yourself toward comprehension. Try not to feed yourself the answers when you haven't even had time to produce any questions from the text yet.
I highly recommend this book to women struggling with having a purposeful bible study. Notice how I didn't say daily. Your bible study does not have to be everyday to be purposeful, but I do commend you to make a set day and time for a bible study. This book is great for long time believers or new believers. It takes the reader through the why and how to read the bible.
To quote the book, “We will not wake up ten years from now and find we have passively taken on the character of God.” It's time to be intentional in getting to know the God of the Bible and reading His Word.
Click here for a free study guide for Women of the Word.
Below is my review of the book. Click the link to see other reviews on Goodreads.
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Jen Wilkin soberly reminds us that the bible is a book about God. It's not about me or how I can make my life better. I recommend this book to any woman who feels the weight of bible literacy like I did. (and still do) It gave me the courage and the tools to dive into the word of God tetherless; no commentaries, no devotions. No one giving me all the questions and answers. No instant gratification or checking off "bible study" from my To-Do List.
Wilkins encouraged me in enjoying the struggle. To be OK with reading, rereading, and rereading again until I got it. One of the most practical things I took away is to photocopy the pages of your bible. Do this so that you can write in the margins easier. You can highlight, cross references, underline, and circle without worrying about destroying your bible.
This is a great book to go through with a small group or Sunday School group!
For more stuff check out Jen Wilkin's blog! http://jenwilkin.blogspot.com/
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