Why should we use cross-references when studying the Bible?
Cross-references should be used in Bible study to demonstrate that all of Scripture agrees, rather than isolating verses to build ideas. They help confirm that the whole Bible substantiates the teaching, ensuring a consistent interpretation across passages. This practice prevents proof-texting and shows that Scripture is harmonious and trustworthy.
Les explains that when studying the Bible, we must use cross-references as much as possible to see that all of Scripture agrees. He cautions against just picking up a verse here and there to build ideas, but instead wants all of Scripture to substantiate what is being taught. In the context, he then goes back to Acts chapter 9 to compare the account of Saul's conversion and Ananias, illustrating how references help confirm the consistency of the biblical record.