Yes, studying the Bible is essential because it leads to true understanding, whereas merely reading it often results in missing the deeper truths.
Les Feldick emphasizes that studying, not just reading, is what God desires (2 Timothy 2:15). He teaches that careful, systematic study reveals what is truly in the Bible and corrects misconceptions. Through study, believers gain a love for the Word and the Holy Spirit reveals truths that casual reading overlooks.
2 Timothy 2:15 — This verse explicitly commands believers to 'study' rather than simply read, and is a recurring benchmark in Les's teaching.
The Bible directly commands believers to engage in diligent study. In 2 Timothy 2:15, Paul writes, "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." This verse contrasts 'study' with passive reading and highlights the goal of divine approval. Additionally, the principle of careful examination is seen in Acts 17:11, where the Bereans 'searched the scriptures daily' to verify what they were taught. Scripture encourages readers to be like the Bereans—actively, carefully, and personally examining the Word rather than merely skimming it.
Les Feldick consistently stresses that studying the Bible is far more important than merely reading it. He often cites 2 Timothy 2:15, noting that Paul didn't say 'read your Bible' but 'study' it (Clip 5). For Les, studying involves reading carefully, using a good cross-reference Bible and study helps, and approaching the Word with a willingness to learn (Clip 5, Clip 4). He teaches that this kind of study corrects preconceived ideas and helps believers see what is actually in Scripture—and what is not (Clip 2). Above all, Les emphasizes that God has promised the Holy Spirit will reveal truths to those who earnestly study (Clip 7), and that a love for the Word grows as one studies it (Clip 0). He encourages everyone to become students of the Book, regardless of educational background (Clip 1).
Les urges believers to buy a good study Bible with cross-references and helpful footnotes (Clip 5). He emphasizes reading carefully and slowly, not just to 'get through' the text (Clip 4). He also encourages following along with his teaching and verifying what is said in one's own Bible (Clip 6).
Les points out that many people are 'brainwashed' into thinking certain things are in the Bible when they are not. By studying, believers can see what is actually there and what is absent, and they can test teachings against the Word (Clip 2, Clip 3). He advises that if someone cannot find something in the Bible, they should 'run from it' (Clip 3).
Les teaches that if we get into the Book, the Holy Spirit will reveal the truths to us (Clip 7). This promise encourages believers to study diligently, knowing that God Himself will illuminate the Word.
Love for the Word
Les shares a telephone caller's testimony that studying the Bible, not just reading it, is necessary, and that this leads to a love for the Word.
Study vs. Read
Les emphasizes that God wants everyone to become students of the Bible, not just readers, and connects this to 2 Timothy 2:15.
Correcting Misconceptions
Les explains that studying reveals what is actually in the Bible and what is not, correcting common misconceptions.
Why Peter Preached to "Ye Men of Israel" (Acts 2 & 3 Explained)
And as we just mentioned in our prayer here in the studio, that we can just get people to understand what the book really says, not what we think it says, not when someone else says it says, but to be able to search the Scriptures and see if these things are so.
Reading Carefully
Les insists on reading Scripture carefully and slowly, noting that merely reading it is not enough.
Practical Study Tools
Les recommends purchasing a good study Bible with cross-references and footnotes to aid in studying.
From Adam to Tribulation: God's Biblical Timeline Explained
And so again, we just remind you to Nothing thrills us more than when you write and tell us that for the first time in your life you're studying, because after all, that's the only reason we teach is to get people into the book. I don't necessarily expect everyone to agree with me, but I'm always reminded of a lady that was in our class, I think it was at Macalester, several years ago.
Holy Spirit's Promise
Les teaches that studying the Bible brings the promise of the Holy Spirit revealing truths to the student.
2 Timothy 2:15: Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
This verse is the key command to study and is central to Les's teaching on the topic.
Acts 17:11: These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.
This verse illustrates the principle of personally searching the Scriptures rather than merely accepting what is heard.
Les emphasizes that reading the Bible is not enough. He teaches that studying—reading carefully, using cross-references, and seeking to understand—is what God commands in 2 Timothy 2:15.
Yes, Les teaches that if we get into the Book, the Holy Spirit will reveal truths to us, as God has promised.
Les suggests using a good study Bible with cross-references and footnotes, and to read the text carefully and slowly.
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