2 Peter 3:16
“He writes this way in all his letters, speaking in them about such matters. Some parts of his letters are hard to understand, which ignorant and unstable people distort, as they do the rest of the Scriptures, to their own destruction.”
This verse points out the need to be exposed to good teaching. It could come from our church, other churches, radio/podcast ministries or trusted commentaries. There are plenty of programs out there to develop a strong biblical understanding.
We are to be in the bible regularly. We shouldn’t let the fact that there are difficult parts scare us away. We are admonished to read it. Matthew says, ‘But Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”‘ Acts 17:11 praises a group because they were diligent students of the bible.
There are doctrines and books of the bible that are difficult. The trinity is one. The bible teaches that there is one God, but three personalities are referred to as God, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. We should ask questions of trusted people, when confused. The book of Romans teaches justification by faith. This was a major clarification of our relationship with God. Paul makes his case like a lawyer.
There is reference to ignorant and unstable people who confuse some with their teaching. This is how cults are formed. People with big personalities mixed poor biblical understanding. Once formed the cult members are discouraged from reading the bible.
I can recall wrestling with healing as a young christian. There are some passages that seem to indicate that if one has enough faith, healing would occur. However, I’ve since learned that a couple of verses in isolation aren’t enough to form doctrine. One must take the entirety of scripture. Paul had an ailment, as did Timothy. They weren’t shamed for not having enough faith. God can heal. We are to say, “Thy will be done” at the end of our prayers. If it’s to be, it will be in His time.
Lord, Thanks for Your Word. Help us to be in it regularly. Keep us from error.