Foreword

OOOOWhy do you read the Bible? To learn about God? To find a solution to a problem? To grow as a believer? If you are like me, every day you try to learn something from the Bible. Yet, in these fast-paced times, you might spend a few good minutes wondering, Where should I start?

OOOOThere are many plans for reading the Bible over a period of time—a year, several weeks, even ninety days. But what about the kind of study that will bring us right to the heart of God’s purpose and plan for us? The kind of study that will develop for us a real closeness with God?

OOOOThe answer to Bible study is simple. Start with Jesus. Not with writings before him, after him, or about him, but with his own words from the Bible. What Did Jesus Say? is simply that—the commands, instructions, and teachings that Jesus spoke.

OOOOThis spiritual guide is designed to help you learn about God, to get to know him for yourself, to discover his insight to your perspectives, and to fill your mind with eternal truth. It will facilitate your understanding of biblical teachings without imposing my or anyone else’s interpretation.

OOOOYou will be guided to reach the inspired meaning of each theme by working with the passages themselves. Yes, this interactive study will encompass the asking, knocking, and seeking that Jesus himself advocated.

OOOOWhat Did Jesus Say? does not replace the Holy Bible. It is intended as a tool to enhance Scripture study, accommodate time constraints, and pinpoint your focus. The suggested approach encourages you in a manner that will free your mind to be open to both practical and holy inspiration. The goal is to get into the words of Jesus, so that his words get into you.

OOOOIn Eastern cultures, students addressed their teachers as Master, and Jesus of Nazareth was honored in this way. You will be learning directly from him through his words and his spirit. It is with devotion, humility, and love of the Christ that I set out with you to study What Did Jesus Say? The Master’s Instructions.