The importance of God's Holy Word as recorded and preserved in the Bible cannot be overemphasized, for it is the only rule of doctrine and practice for God's children.

The Bible is important because even the worship of God is "in vain" unless it is done "in spirit and in truth" according to Biblical instruction. (John 4:24)

Those that do not receive and know the truths of God's word are subject to being "tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine..." (Ephesians 4:14) Therefore, the Bible instructs God's ministers to "preach the word..." (2 Timothy 4:2) and to "speak ... the things which become sound doctrine." (Titus 2:1). It instructs God's children to receive "...the word with all readiness of mind... ." (Acts 17:11) God's children are further instructed to become familiar with the sound doctrine and practices of the Bible so they can discern and avoid teaching which is false and contrary to the Bible; and so they may "hold fast that which is good." (1 Thessalonians 5:21)

Special blessings are enjoyed by God's children when they humbly and prayerfully seek a better understanding of the "sound words" of the Bible, which they are to "hold fast" as their only rule and guide for doctrine and practice. (2 Timothy 1:13)

The following study is intended to serve as a general guide and reference for those who "desire the sincere milk of the word" (1 Peter 2:2) and who want to personally study and learn what the Bible teaches regarding the fundamental doctrines and practices God has given for His church.