I. Introduction (1 Corinthians 2:9-16)
The Bible is unlike any other book. It’s not just historical, literary, or philosophical - it’s spiritual. And that makes all the difference in how we approach it.
A. Why Many People Miss What the Bible Says
- They approach it only intellectually
- They lack spiritual discernment
- The natural man cannot receive the things of the Spirit
B. The Key Passage
“But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” (1 Corinthians 2:14)
II. What Makes the Bible Spiritual?
A. It Was Written by the Spirit of God
- 2 Peter 1:21 - “Holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost”
- God breathed out His words through human authors
- Every word is God’s word
B. It Reveals Spiritual Truth
- Things the eye has not seen
- Things the ear has not heard
- Things that have not entered into the heart of man (1 Corinthians 2:9)
C. It Must Be Spiritually Discerned
- The Holy Spirit is the teacher
- He opens our understanding
- He applies the truth to our hearts
III. How to Read a Spiritual Book
A. Come Humbly
- Not as a critic
- But as a learner
- Ready to be changed
B. Come Dependent on the Spirit
- Ask for illumination
- Trust Him to guide you
- Let Him convict and correct
C. Come Obediently
- Ready to obey what you learn
- Not just gathering information
- But seeking transformation
IV. The Results of Spiritual Reading
A. Understanding Opens Up
B. The Bible Comes Alive
C. God Speaks Personally
D. Life Changes
Conclusion
Don’t approach the Bible like any other book. Come to it spiritually, dependently, and humbly - and watch God open your understanding.