Learning To Be A Student

By Randy Harp, Director, Baptist Bible Fellowship International Central Office, Springfield, MO

Read Matthew 5:1-2.

Over the past several years, I have had the privilege of teaching at a local Bible college. I love to watch as the students mature over their time on campus. One area where I see the most maturity is in a student arriving at college thinking they know everything about the Bible and a few years later graduating, realizing how much they still have to learn. What changed during those four or five years? Typically, it is that they truly learn how to be a student. This is a skill that we all need to learn regarding being a follower of Christ.

As we begin this study through the Sermon on the Mount, these first two verses set the stage for the next three chapters. Jesus, upon seeing the immense crowds that had gathered around Him, intentionally withdraws to a mountainside. As He sits down, His disciples gather around Him. We see a beautiful picture of humility and a hunger to learn. The disciples recognized the significance of their Teacher’s actions and eagerly sought to understand His teachings. They did not passively listen but actively engaged in the pursuit of spiritual knowledge.

In the midst of our busy lives, Jesus invites us to ascend to His presence — to meet Him on the mountainside. Click To Tweet

Today, as followers of Christ, we are called to heed the same summons that Jesus extended to His disciples centuries ago. In the midst of our busy lives, Jesus invites us to ascend to His presence — to meet Him on the mountainside. It is an invitation to press pause on the chaos and distractions of daily existence, seeking solace in His company. We need to find a quiet place, both physically and spiritually, where we can encounter His divine presence. Just as the disciples surrounded Jesus, we, too, are called to draw near unto Him. In doing so, we position ourselves to receive His teachings and wisdom.

This passage highlights the importance of our posture as listeners and learners. When we approach God’s Word with humility and a hunger for deeper understanding, it opens the door for life-transforming encounters with the living God. It is in these moments of communion that we gain fresh insights, receive guidance, and find the strength to walk in obedience. The more we sit at the feet of Jesus, the more prepared and equipped we become to fulfill our divine calling here on earth.

Reflective Questions:

1. How would you rate yourself as a student? Are you actively learning more about Jesus and His will for your life? Go ahead, give yourself a grade. 
2. What would it look like for you to press pause on the chaos and distractions of daily existence and seek solace in the presence of Jesus? Where would that be? When would that be? 
3. Do you have a hunger for a deeper understanding of God? 

Memory Verse:

¹⁶ All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, ¹⁷ that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. II Timothy 3:16-17 (NKJV)

Prayer:

Dear God, help me to be a good student of the Word of God. Help me to set aside time in the chaos of life to sit at Your feet and learn. I don’t want to stay the same. I want to grow in my knowledge and understanding.