Knowing a Lot Does Not Mean Knowing Well

Knowing a Lot Does Not Mean Knowing Well

In general, there are two reasons why someone studies the Bible. First, because they want to know God and understand His will for their life. The second reason is to use the Bible as a weapon in debate so that they appear smart.

Aldi, an informatics engineering student at Brawijaya University, once studied the Bible for the second reason. He joined a Christian student organization to enrich his spiritual knowledge, so he could show that he knew a lot about the contents of the Bible. Moreover, this young man from Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, was indeed active in various campus activities and committees, so he had the firmness and courage to argue.

Some time later, Aldi met a brother named Mampe in that organization. Seeing Aldi's willing heart to learn, Mampe was moved to share the gospel with the younger man he was mentoring. However, his efforts did not bear fruit. Mampe then brought his struggle in prayer so that Aldi could study the Bible with the right motivation. Sadly, he was forced to bury his hope for several years.

People may stop trying, but God will answer prayers offered sincerely at the right time, when His people are ready (Psalm 65:2). Through Aldi's friend, a sister who was part of Campus Ministry Jakarta, Mampe met Aldi again—who still wanted to study the Bible as preparation for debate. Not wanting to miss the opportunity from God, Mampe and a brother from Malang once again built a friendship with Aldi.

In the end, it was the word of God that succeeded in opening Aldi's eyes.

For the word of God is living and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword; it pierces deep enough to divide soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it is able to discern the thoughts and intentions of our hearts. – Hebrews 4:12

This verse shattered Aldi's defenses so completely that he dared to examine himself and review his purpose for studying the Bible. Aldi now understands that studying the word of God is not about who has the most Bible knowledge, or who serves the most often. Studying the word of God means learning about faith, love, and hope that can transform wrong character. 

With that awareness, Aldi made the decision to repent and study the word of God personally. On 5 August 2019, he decided to become a disciple of Jesus and was willing to be guided. 

Today, Aldi is someone who does not boast. Every day he wants to be renewed by the word of God, and he sees correction as something valuable that will produce better character. Aldi's dream is that he may love the word of God more and more and grow in Him. Amen! - Church GKDI is currently present in 35 cities. We have Bible Study activities in every region; if you need information or would like to get involved, contact us at Church GKDI Official: WhatsApp 0821 2285 8686 or Facebook / Instagram GKDI Official

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