Russell Haffner
I think all would agree that there is widespread religious division and confusion in our world today. Some are saying this current situation is a result of the Bible being too hard to understand. However, it is wrong to blame God or His word (the Bible). Saying the Bible is too hard to understand is a blasphemous attack on either God's goodness or His ability to communicate to mankind. The Bible can be understood!
The Scriptures were written for our learning and understanding (Romans 15:4). In Ephesians 5:17 the apostle Paul says, "Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is." He told the Christians at Corinth, "For we are not writing any other things to you than what you read or understand. Now I trust you will understand, even to the end" (2 Corinthians 1:12-13).
- Peter also wrote inspired words which were fully able to bring remembrance of the truth to the people (2 Peter 1:12-15).
- John's purpose for writing was to explain what he had witnessed so it could be understood (1 John 1:1-4). His inspired words said that those who read, listened and understood the message given by Christ would be blessed (Revelation 1:3).
- The young evangelist Timothy was able to understood God's Scriptures even from childhood (2 Timothy 3:14-17).
- The noble Bereans were praised for searching the Scriptures to gain understanding (Acts 17:11).
Therefore, it is clear that we are able to understand God's word. We can come to the Father, learn and understand the Holy Scriptures (John 6:44-45). God never commands us to do something we cannot do. It is God's truth that will make us free (John 8:31-32) and He has provided that truth for us today in the pages of the Holy Bible. God intends for us to both understand and obey His word.
It is true that some parts of the Bible are more difficult to understand than others (2 Peter 3:15-16), but we can easily understand what we need to do to be saved and to live a faithful life. It may take more study to understand some passages, but this does not mean it is impossible to understand what God would have us to do to serve Him faithfully. We live in a time of religious error and misunderstanding of the Scriptures, but let us not blame God and His word. If we are determined and willing to study we can find and know the truth revealed in God's word (2 Timothy 2:15) and we will surely be rewarded for our efforts (Matthew 7:7-8). May God bless you as you seek to understand His words and do His will.
If you have already registered for a course you may have noticed the tab which is labeled "Syllabus." This is where you will find information about the course and the requirements needed to earn a certificate for the course. This is a very helpful reference for the Formal and Informal Students who are taking the courses for credit. However, Auditing Students will also find the Syllabus to be an excellent starting point to understand the purpose of the course and the structure of the lessons. All students should begin each course by consulting the Course Syllabus.