Long Term Study

Steven’s Scribbles
“Long term Study”
Matt. 28:18-20


    It is a non-controversial point that after someone obeys the gospel, they must continue to be taught and learn about discipleship (Matt. 28:18-20). However, how long is this supposed to happen? How long did the Apostles stay and encourage the disciples? After S/Paul converted to Christianity, he stayed in Damascus “many days” (Acts 10:23). Gal. 1:17-18 tells us that the time period was 3 years. It’s arguable that he spent that time there to be encouraged and fellowship for himself, rather than others. But yet, the three years is still present. Barnabas and Saul spent a year in Antioch together and “taught considerable numbers” (Acts 11:26). In Acts 18 Paul stayed in Corinth for a year and a half (Acts 18:11). Not only did the first century preachers teach God’s word in any place they found themselves, they also stayed for lengthy amounts of time in order to “encourage the disciples.” It takes a long term commitment to study the Bible, and to teach others in the process of discipleship. There are many tools in the brotherhood, books, workbooks, tracts, etc., that teach people the truth about the Gospel quickly, but we must remember that long term bible study is still necessary. We offer a Sunday morning bible study hour and a Wednesday night bible study hour. Why? We have weekly hour and a half bible study with college students. Why? Everyone needs to be encouraged and be a part of a long term bible study. Not just the “faithful few.” I love you all!
    


In His service,
Steven Hugley