03-25-2026 PART 3: Learning to Fish: Knowing the Word and Standing in Truth

Section 1

This section reinforces the central idea of “learning to fish” as developing a personal, active engagement with the Word of God. It is not enough to hear Scripture quoted; believers are called to verify it, just as the Bereans did by examining the Scriptures daily. A crucial distinction is introduced: knowing the Word is not the same as knowing of the Word. Many people are familiar with the idea that God has given Scripture, yet they lack true understanding of what it actually says. According to 2 Timothy 2:15, believers are to handle the Word of Truth correctly, which requires diligence, humility, and continual study. Scripture itself is described as God-breathed, carrying the very life and authority of God, and it equips every believer for righteous living and effective service.

Section 2

The teaching then moves into a powerful example from Matthew 4, where Jesus is tempted by the devil. This passage reveals a critical truth: Satan can and does use Scripture, but he uses it incorrectly, out of context, or for selfish purposes. His tactic begins with questioning—“If you are the Son of God”—mirroring his earlier deception in the garden. When Jesus responds with “It is written,” Satan counters by quoting Scripture himself. However, Jesus provides the key to overcoming deception with the phrase “It is also written.” This demonstrates that Scripture must be understood in its fullness, not in isolated fragments. One verse cannot be used to override or distort another. The balance of Scripture protects against misuse, and this principle becomes essential for discerning truth from error.

Section 3

The conclusion emphasizes that truth is the only weapon against the lies of the enemy, who is described in John 8:44 as the father of lies. Freedom comes through knowing the truth—fully and accurately—not through partial or distorted understanding. The Word of God is living and active, capable of transforming hearts, renewing minds, and defeating deception. Believers are encouraged to move beyond selective reading or “cherry-picking” verses and instead embrace the entirety of Scripture. By doing so, they gain clarity, strength, and spiritual discernment. The call is simple yet profound: do not merely know about the Bible—know it deeply, live it faithfully, and use it rightly, because it is the very truth that sets people free.