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1 Corinthians 2:14 - Spiritual Discernment Necessary for Biblical Understanding.

1 Corinthians 2:14 (NIV) The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit.

INTRODUCTION

God intends that even in this life the truths of His word shall be ever unfolding to His people. There is only one way in which this knowledge can be obtained. We can attain to an understanding of God's word only through the illumination of that Spirit by which the word was given. SC 109

WORD STUDY

The Natural Man: a man who is not spiritual-minded; one unregenerate, whose interests are confined to the things of this life. Such a man depends on human wisdom for the solution of all his problems. He lives to please himself and to gratify the desires of the unconverted heart, hence is incapable of understanding and appreciating the things of God. To him the plan of salvation, the wonderful revelation of God's love, is folly. He cannot distinguish between worldly philosophy and spiritual truth because the wisdom of God is understood only by those who permit themselves to be taught by the Holy Spirit. [SDA Bible Commentary]

COMMENTARY PEARLS

The preaching of the word will be of no avail without the continual presence and aid of the Holy Spirit. This is the only effectual teacher of divine truth. Only when the truth is accompanied to the heart by the Spirit will it quicken the conscience or transform the life. One might be able to present the letter of the word of God, he might be familiar with all its commands and promises; but unless the Holy Spirit sets home the truth, no souls will fall on the Rock and be broken. No amount of education, no advantages, however great, can make one a channel of light without the co-operation of the Spirit of God. The sowing of the gospel seed will not be a success unless the seed is quickened into life by the dew of heaven. DA 671-672

Those who do not learn every day in the school of Christ, who do not spend much time in earnest prayer, are not fit to handle the work of God in any of its branches; for if they do, human depravity will surely overcome them and they will lift up their souls unto vanity. Those who become co-workers with Jesus Christ, and who have spirituality to discern spiritual things, will feel their need of virtue and of wisdom from Heaven in handling His work. There are some who neither burn nor shine, yet are contented. They are in a wretchedly cold and indifferent condition, TM 169

Those who believe the truth are to be newly converted every day. Then they will be vessels unto honor.  TM 248

QUESTION

How important is prayer to properly understanding the Bible?

AI ANSWER

   Prayer is absolutely crucial for understanding the Bible properly. It's a two-way conversation where we listen to God through His Word and respond in prayer, aligning ourselves with His will. Without prayer, understanding the Bible can be like having light without heat, leading to knowledge without application or connection.
   Here's why prayer is so important for Bible study:
      o Connection with God:
        Prayer helps us to connect with God on a deeper level, allowing us to
        hear His voice and apply His teachings to our lives.
      o Holiness:
        Prayer before reading the Bible helps us to approach it with a humble,
        teachable heart, open to receiving God's message.
      o God's Guidance:
        Prayer allows us to ask God for wisdom, insight, and understanding as we
        study His Word.
      o Spiritual Growth:
        Praying while studying the Bible can supercharge spiritual growth,
        opening the door for God to guide our understanding of His principles.
      o Living the Word:
        Prayer helps us to see how the Bible applies to our daily lives and to
        live in a way that is pleasing to God.
   In essence, prayer is the key that opens our hearts and minds to understanding God's Word. It's not just a passive activity; it's an active engagement with God, leading to a deeper relationship with Him and a more profound understanding of His teachings. AI mod

LINKS FOR FURTHER STUDY

1 Corinthians 2:14 - Spiritual Discernment Necessary for Biblical Understanding.
https://www.abible.com/devotions/2025/20250601-1534.html
https://www.abible.com/devotions/2023/20230103-0953.html

1 Corinthians 2:14 - Spiritual Discernment So Vital.
http://www.abible.com/devotions/2020/20201030-1146.html

1 Corinthians 2:14 - Spiritual Wisdom!
http://www.abible.com/devotions/2007/20070910-1031.html

LINKS WORTH CHECKING OUT

https://abible.com/links/