Many Christians say they read the Bible. But the deeper question is this: Are you reading Scripture—or truly studying it?

There is a difference. And that difference can determine whether you grow in truth or remain spiritually shallow.

A Story About Assumption and Understanding

A man once served time at the Queen Victoria Reformatory Center. During his incarceration, he encountered Jesus Christ and gave his life to Him. Overjoyed by his transformation, he began writing weekly letters to his son, sharing the gospel and explaining his newfound faith.

When his sentence ended, he eagerly anticipated reuniting with his son. On the day of his release, the two embraced warmly—until something interrupted the moment. The son’s necklace, a crucifix pendant, pressed against the father’s chest.

The father stepped back, overwhelmed with joy.
“Hallelujah!” he exclaimed. “All my letters paid off! My son is a Christian!”

But the son gently replied, “Dad, I’m not wearing this cross because of your letters. I’m not a Christian. It’s just fashion.”

In that moment, both father and son had misunderstood each other.

The father failed to consider cultural trends outside prison walls.
The son failed to grasp the spiritual depth behind his father’s letters.

Both made assumptions. Neither sought deeper understanding.

Reading the Bible vs. Studying the Bible

This story reflects a common issue among believers today.

Many Christians read the Bible casually, focusing on stories, favorite verses, or inspirational quotes. But reading alone does not guarantee understanding.

The real question is:

Are you reading Scripture for surface inspiration—or studying it for divine truth?

What Is Eisegesis?

If you quickly skim Scripture and assign your own meaning to it, you may unknowingly be practicing eisegesis.

Eisegesis is the subjective interpretation of a text—reading your own ideas, opinions, cultural assumptions, or biases into Scripture.

In other words, you approach the Bible asking:
“What does this mean to me?”

Instead of asking:
“What did this originally mean?”

This approach may feel comforting, but it often distorts God’s Word.

What Is Exegesis?

If you truly desire truth, your approach must be exegesis.

Exegesis is the objective study of Scripture to uncover its original meaning by examining:

* Historical context
* Cultural background
* Grammar and language
* Authorship
* Audience
* Literary structure

Exegesis asks the important questions:

* Who wrote this?
* To whom was it written?
* When and why?
* What was happening historically?
* How does this fit within the whole of Scripture?

Exegesis draws truth out of the text.
Eisegesis reads ideas into the text.

Only one reveals God’s intended message.

Why Studying the Bible Matters

Surface reading may inspire you.
Deep study transforms you.

When you study Scripture correctly, you:

* Grow spiritually mature
* Avoid false doctrine
* Understand God’s character.
* Develop discernment
* Strengthen your faith

The Bible is not merely a collection of stories—it is God’s revealed Word. It deserves careful, prayerful study.

“Study to show yourself approved unto God…” — 2 Timothy 2:15

A Final Question

So ask yourself honestly:

Are you reading the Bible for comfort and stories?
Or are you studying it for truth and transformation?

Both approaches may sound good—but only one stands the test of objective scrutiny and reveals the fullness of God’s Word.

Which one are you practicing?

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Prayer

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of Your Word. Forgive me for reading it casually or through my own understanding. My main request is to learn to study Scripture with humility, patience, and a hunger for Your truth. Open my eyes to see what You intended, not what I assume. Help me to grow in wisdom, discernment, and faith as I seek You through Your Word. Transform my heart through truth, and draw me closer to You each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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