Selective Scripture – The Importance of Studying the Whole Bible
God’s Word is living and powerful. It is a lamp for our feet and a light for our path. Yet, many today fall into the trap of using only selective scripture—choosing a verse here or there without knowing the whole counsel of God. Jesus warned the Sadducees in Matthew 22:29 KJV that their error came from “not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.” When we only pick parts of the Bible we like or twist verses to suit our own desires, we lose sight of God’s will.
Matthew 22:29 KJV
“Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.”
2 Timothy 2:15 KJV
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
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Why the Whole Bible Matters
The Bible is one complete story of God’s plan of salvation. From Genesis to Revelation, every verse works together. Paul reminded Timothy that we must “study to shew thyself approved” (2 Timothy 2:15) KJV. This means we cannot depend on others alone or on short quotes we see online. We must read, compare, and rightly divide the Word of truth.
When people misuse scripture, they often justify wrong actions. Even criminals have been known to twist verses to clean their conscience or persuade others. The danger is real. Selective scripture taken out of context can lead to deception, false teaching, and even harm.
A Lesson From Fiction
In the futuristic movie, 30 years after a nuclear holocaust, The Book of Eli, the villain (Gary Oldman) in the story violently went after Eli (Denzel Washington) because he wanted the last Bible on earth. He wanted the bible not to worship God, The villian wanted the bible to control people. He believed he could use scripture to keep a town under his power.
He captured Eli violently and finally got the bible. When he held the Bible in his hands, it was full of blank pages. God had erased the pages. Eli continued his journey on foot across waste land to the publisher and cited the bible by heart. The Bible was replicated and put on the shelf to go out to people again. The message is simple: the true power of Scripture is not in the book alone but in God’s Word hidden in the heart.
As Psalm 119:11 KJV says, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” We must know the Bible for ourselves so no one can use it against us.
The Danger of Ignorance
Just as ignorance of the law is no excuse in court, ignorance of God’s Word gives no defense against evil. If we do not know Scripture, we may not recognize lies when we hear them. We may not know how to respond in trials or temptations. Salvation through Jesus Christ is the beginning, but holiness is the lifestyle.
His blood makes us righteous, and the Holy Spirit reminds us of His words. But we must first put His words in our hearts and minds.
Alt tag: #reading the bible
Why Comparing Translations Matters
Many newer Bible versions are published to make reading easier and more understandable. This can be helpful, but language experts know that even one small word can change the meaning of a sentence. That is why it is wise to compare translations.
For example, Colossians 1:16 KJV in the King James Version says:
“For by him [Jesus] were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him.”
Some newer versions say “through him” instead of “by him.” While both may point to Christ as Creator, the wording shifts the emphasis. This shows why checking multiple translations helps with clarity and discernment.
Here’s a free tool to compare verses side by side: BibleHub Parallel.
Other free resources include:
King James Bible Online for reading the KJV
YouTube audio Bibles and podcasts that read Scripture aloud
Google Translate and free Bible apps for study in different languages
At DailyScriptureExplained.com, we offer verse-by-verse teachings based on the whole Bible, along with the 45 Days to Learn the Gospel Challenge and daily insights to guide your study, reflections and journaling.
The Greatest Commandments
Jesus Himself gave us a test for truth. In Mark 12:30–31 KJV He declared:
“And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.”
Any teaching, any selective scripture, must be measured against this: Does it lead us to love God and love others? If not, it is not truth.
Conclusion
Selective scripture is dangerous. The whole Bible is necessary to know God’s will, resist deception, and live holy lives. The Holy Spirit will remind us of Jesus’ words, but only if we are willing to study them and hide them in our hearts. Comparing translations is a wise practice to make sure we are rightly dividing the Word of truth. Let us not be casual readers but faithful students of God’s Word.
Reflection Question
How often do you compare translations to make sure you fully understand what God’s Word is saying?
3 Action Steps
Read daily – Set aside time each day to read both Old and New Testament passages-read daily scripture explained short daily insights of scripture.
Compare translations – Use free online tools to examine key verses for deeper understanding.
Test with love – Ask, “Does this teaching bring me closer to loving God and my neighbor?”
Keywords: selective scripture, study the whole Bible, dangers of false teaching, compare Bible translations, Colossians 1:16 KJV, importance of context in scripture, rightly dividing the word of truth, Matthew 22:29 explained, 2 Timothy 2:15 teaching, Bible study for beginners
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🙏❤️🔥👍Disclosure: Below graphics are not affiliated links. There is nothing to buy. Take the challenge: 45 Days to Learn the Gospel Challenge
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Romans 10:17 KJV “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”
Alt tag: #Offer of Salvation John 315 Final
A CALL TO SALVATION:
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
Romans 10:9-109That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness, and with the mouth, confession is made unto salvation.
John 3:5-65Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7
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