How to Be an Autodidact (Part 1)

A Guide for Christians

These days, with the pandemic and self-isolation going on, and since the last time we talked about this, the murder of George Floyd and the ensuing protests, I have expanded the list of subjects I want to study. Why? I realized that there is knowledge out there that I need to help me with my calling as a Christian. I even want more knowledge about being an autodidact! Why do I feel an obligation to do this? So I can understand how to minister better, to disciple better, to live better for the Lord.

This past Sunday, I was reading an interview with a well-known intellectual, who also says he is also a preacher, and when asked, in his opinion, some of the best books he reads, he named some by philosophers and so-called theologians, who doubt that Jesus was God, and even the very existence of God, among other unbiblical things! I was so grateful and gratified that my mind was using what I call “the filter”, Scripture, to discern and detect what was right versus what was wrong; what is useful for the Kingdom of God and what is not. That is why Scripture should serve as the basis for any study for a Christian:

“These people were more ·willing to listen [open-minded; fair-minded; noble in character] than the people in Thessalonica. The Bereans ·were eager to hear what Paul and Silas said [L eagerly received the word/message] and ·studied [examined] the Scriptures every day to find out if these things were true [C to confirm Paul’s teaching was in line with Scripture].” (Acts 17:11, EXB)

We also learn though books, videos, other people, etc., but we must use the filter, Scripture, the word of God, to make sure it is correct.

How does your study and knowledge of Scripture help you with your study and acquisition of knowledge?