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To move those in our studies beyond these obstacles, we have to present the Word of God as the living, active thing it is. We have to help those under us savor the Word of God as a precious morsel and allow it to ask questions of us, rather than simply asking questions of it. When we read the story of the rich, young man who Jesus tells to sell all his possessions and follow him, we shouldn't make up an analytical interpretation to explain this away. We should listen to Jesus' words as if they are directed to us and consider what that means for our lives. Or if we adamantly believe in man's free will and then come across a passage such as Romans 9 that says God chooses whom he will, we need to let that challenge us rather than fall back on our carefully laid theological systems. In other words, we have to avoid making God in our own image and let him make us in his.

One of the practical ways we can help others come to the Bible with an attitude of letting it transform them is to give them time to prepare their hearts. In our harried, busy world, we often come to Bible study exhausted, frazzled, and with a million other things vying for our attention. Consider starting your Bible study with a time of silent prayer, suggesting that everyone see if there is anything they need to confess or simply to ask God to open their eyes and hearts to his Word.

Perhaps using recorded music may help focus those in your group on why they are there. Choose a song that reflects humbling ourselves before God or proclaims the glory of God. Another idea is to use spiritual readings. Perhaps you've come across a poem, ancient writings, or a prayer that would help set the tone.

Of course, the goal is to help those in your group hunger for the Word of God beyond the short time you meet together. So pray together that God will give you a thirst that is never quenched in a mere hour a week, but that each person will want to read the Bible often because they can't get enough of it—that they would see it as the only way they can move beyond the confines of their sinful nature into the glorious light of the Savior of the world.

JoHannah Reardon is the managing editor of ChristianBibleStudies.com

More Bible Study Helps

Expectant Prayer Current Issues Bible Study Sometimes prayer can feel like a quiet affair. We say the words alone, then try to divine the significance of each event in our personal lives. What should we expect when we pray? What should we pray about? What responsibilities remain on us? This study examines these questions. Read more.

We Revere the Bible More Than We Read It New research shows a surprising number who follow Christ but don't prioritize time in the Word. by JoHannah Reardon, ChristianBibleStudies.com Editor When I asked her why she was an atheist, she said she couldn't believe stuff that was in a 2,000-year-old book. Four months later, she still attends our church and plans to be baptized. When I asked her what changed, she said it wasn't until now that she understood what was in the Bible. Read more.

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