The study and research that Christ requires isn’t a religious and analytical approach to Christianity. He requires something much deeper than that. Go beyond religion and analysis to the Lordship and Headship of the risen Jesus!

“For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the Law of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach statutes and ordinances in Israel.” The Law of the Lord can be studied and analyzed with the logical mind, but to be effectively sought and taught, it must be obeyed and caught by a hungry (Matthew 5:6) humble (James 4:6) heart.

The research that Christ requires is not human biblical dissection and analysis. It’s the daily revelation that comes from being obedient to and led by the Spirit. Jesus said: “If you love Me keep My commands and I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to help you and be with you forever — the Spirit of Truth.”

We need the Spirit’s help, guidance, and revelation today as much as the first Christians did. The Spirit works with, in, and through the Bible. What He reveals to us today won’t contradict what He revealed in Scripture.

Let God “research” you. Let your heart and your life be continually searched by the Bible and by God’s Spirit. If Jesus is your Lord that means that staying focused on Him, listening to Him, and obeying Him is your #1 priority. Jesus first!

The body of Christ has a perfect leader. His name is Jesus. If churches and individual Christians would continually focus on, listen to, and obey Him, we would see ongoing glorious demonstrations of the kingdom of God.

Life is a parade

That goes marching by.

People masquerade

And hide in alleyways

Where the tunnel vision

Of human study

No longer portrays

What’s fully going on.

To get clearer sight

Step out of the shade

And into the light.

Open up your heart

To the Holy Spirit

And to the word of God.

Stop your masquerade.