Bible Study

Why Study the Bible?

Bible study helps us understand the Word of God more deeply.

Sacred Scripture reveals God’s plan of salvation and leads us to Jesus Christ.

Studying the Bible helps Catholics grow in faith, prayer, wisdom, and holiness.

“Thy word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my paths.” — Psalm 118:105

How Catholics Study Scripture

Catholics read Scripture with prayer, humility, and the guidance of the Church.

We seek to understand what the sacred authors intended and how each passage fits within God’s whole plan of salvation.

Scripture should never be read as isolated verses detached from context, Christ, or the Church.

Important Bible Study Principles

• Begin with prayer.
• Read passages in context.
• Notice the literary genre.
• Consider the historical setting.
• Read Scripture as one unified story of salvation.
• Interpret Scripture in harmony with Catholic teaching.
• Ask how the passage leads you closer to Christ.

Scripture and Tradition

Catholics do not separate the Bible from the Church.

Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition come from the same divine source and work together.

The Church helps preserve, proclaim, and rightly interpret the Word of God.

Bible Study Should Lead to Prayer

The goal of Bible study is not only information.

Scripture is meant to form the heart and draw us into deeper communion with God.

Good Bible study should lead to prayer, conversion, worship, and faithful living.

Explore Bible Study

Key Truths About Bible Study

• Bible study helps us understand God’s Word.
• All Scripture points ultimately to Jesus Christ.
• Context matters when interpreting Scripture.
• Different biblical books use different literary forms.
• Catholics read Scripture with the Church.
• Scripture and Tradition belong together.
• Bible study should lead to prayer and conversion.
• Every Catholic can learn to read Scripture fruitfully.

What Does This Mean For Me?

You do not need to be a scholar to begin studying the Bible.

Start with prayer, read slowly, stay close to the Church, and ask what God is teaching you.

Over time, Scripture will help shape your mind, heart, and life in Christ.

Continue Learning

The best place to begin is: How to Read the Bible

Learn simple, faithful steps for reading Sacred Scripture with understanding.