We study to show ourselves approved to God (2 Tim. 2:15). Using the example of those in the first century, they were studying what they heard from inspired men, daily (Acts 2:46; Acts 17:11). Today we do not have inspired men but rather an inspired Book. We should exercise what we have learned from those in the past and daily search the scriptures to see if what we have been taught is correct. Implied in such a statement in the idea that we can KNOW the truth. If it is impossible to know the truth, then how could we conclude that this or that doctrine is correct? There is a standard and it is the Word of God and men can know that truth (John 8:32).
Are there those who would teach error or corrupt what God has said? This has always been the case. John says try the spirits (I John 4:1). He had reference to false prophets or in our case today, false teachers. Am I to believe that by a sincere and correct study of the Word of God that I cannot know if someone is teaching error? Such is the reasoning of some today that is that if the Holy Spirit does not give you an “understanding” then you cannot KNOW. In days gone by we debated those of the religious world upon the basis of saying that anyone could know and obey Christ without special help. Today some have moved the same teaching over into the realm of the church saying that without special help you cannot increase your faith.
Everything in God’s Word is not easily to be understood. Some things require a deeper study and increased effort to know what God has revealed. Peter points to those who are unlearned and unstable wrestling the Word of God to their own destruction (2 Peter 3:16). What does it mean by that? They take the scripture and fail to understand the meaning. It does not mean that it is impossible but rather hard to be understood. We may turn to faithful Christians to help us in reaching right conclusions based on other scriptures. Each of us must be fully persuaded in our own minds (Rom. 14:5). No special help other than what God provides through His Word. We can know God’s will based on proper application of the evidence.