BiblicalInsights.net

Alexander Campbell’s Study-Bethany, WV
     Could anyone estimate the number of hours Alexander Campbell spent in his study at Bethany, WV?  He would arise about 4 a.m. and go to the study to begin work.  He wrote more than 60 volumes.  He edited two papers: The Christian Baptist and the Millennial Harbinger.  In this study, he prepared for his five major debates.   
     The original study was hexagonal by design.  The only windows were located in the cupola in the center of the study where light would flood in from above.  In 1836, Campbell added a rectangular extension to the study so a fireplace could be added.  Shelves lined the interior of the study and were filled with books.  Many of these books have been catalogued and are on display in the Campbell room of the library at Bethany. 
     The diligent study of God’s Word was an important discipline in the life of Campbell.  Every Christian should heed the instruction of the apostle Paul, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (II Tim. 2:15).   Consider these three steps for Bible study.
      -The first step is to study.  Reading is not study.  Reading devotionally is good and essential.  However, one can read a lifetime devotionally and never acquire an in-depth knowledge of the sacred Scriptures.  Study regularly at least 15 minutes a day at the same hour in the same location.
       -Study under controlled conditions.  Our minds are so constituted that they operate at top efficiency only when they are allowed to do so under conditioned and orderly circumstances.  Every person should have a quiet nook, a study table, and study tools arranged in an orderly fashion. 
       -Study with the proper tools.  Select a good study Bible that is an accurate and trustworthy translation.  I would recommend the King James Version.  It has stood the test of time and criticism.  You will need a collegiate dictionary, a good Bible Dictionary (Smith’s Bible Dictionary or J. D. Douglas’ Bible dictionary called The New Bible Dictionary), a concordance (Strong’s has a numbering system that connects it with other tools for Bible study), and a large loose-leaf notebook for taking notes on your study.
       How do you begin?  Study systematically.  Take a book of the Bible that is of interest to you and begin reading and outlining each chapter.  Ask yourself these questions:  who is speaking?, to whom is he speaking?, who is the author?, what is the topic?, where is this taking place? why is this being written?, when do these events take place?, and how does this text relate to me today?  Let me suggest the books of Luke and Acts.  Bible study that is regular, personal, deliberate, and diligent will pay big dividends in spiritual growth.  The New Year has just begun.  Why not get started with your study of the sacred Scriptures today?