1, 2. How is learning to apply Bible principles like mastering a new language?

HAVE you ever attempted to learn a new language? If so, you will no doubt agree that it is hard work. After all, more is involved than simply learning new words. Proficient use of a language also requires mastering its grammar. You must perceive how words relate to one another and how they combine to form complete thoughts.

² It is similar with our taking in knowledge of God’s Word. More is involved than simply learning isolated Scripture texts. We must also learn the Bible’s grammar, as it were. We need to grasp how scriptures relate to one another and how they serve as principles that can be applied in daily life. We can thus become “fully competent, completely equipped for every good work.”​—2 Timothy 3:17.

3. Regarding service to God, what change took place in 33 C.E.?

³ Under the arrangement of the Mosaic Law code, faithfulness could be demonstrated, to a great extent, by strict adherence to well-defined rules. In 33 C.E., however, Jehovah blotted out the Law, in effect “nailing it to the torture stake” on which his Son had been put to death. (Colossians 2:13, 14) Thereafter, God’s people were not given an extensive list of sacrifices to offer and rules to follow. Rather, they were told: “Present your bodies a sacrifice living, holy, acceptable to God, a sacred service with your power of reason.” (Romans 12:1) Yes, Christians were to give of themselves, with their whole heart, soul, mind, and strength in God’s service. (Mark 12:30; compare Psalm 110:3.) But what does it mean to offer “sacred service with your power of reason”?

4, 5. What is involved in serving Jehovah with our power of reason?

⁴ The phrase “power of reason” is translated from the Greek word lo·gi·kosʹ, which means “rational” or “intelligent.” Servants of God are called upon to use their Bible-trained conscience. Instead of hinging their decisions on numerous preset rules, Christians are to weigh Bible principles carefully. They need to understand the “grammar” of the Bible, or how its various principles relate to one another. Thus, they can make balanced decisions with their power of reason.

7. How can parents reason on Bible principles regarding discipline?

⁷ For example, take the matter of parenting. Proverbs 13:24 says that the father who loves his son “does look for him with discipline.” Taken by itself, this scripture could be misapplied to justify harsh, unrelenting punishment. Yet, Colossians 3:21 provides balancing admonition: “You fathers, do not be exasperating your children so that they do not become downhearted.” Parents who use their power of reason and harmonize these principles will not resort to discipline that could be termed “abusive.” They will treat their children with warmth, understanding, and dignity. (Ephesians 6:4) Thus, in parenting or in any other matter involving Bible principles, we can develop our power of reason by weighing all related factors. In this way, we can perceive the “grammar” of Bible principles, what God’s intent was and how to accomplish that.

The Pharisees knew the technical framework of the Law but could not perceive its “grammar.” They could recite myriad details of the Law, but they failed to grasp the Personality behind it. Jesus told them: “You give the tenth of the mint and the rue and of every other vegetable, but you pass by the justice and the love of God!” (Luke 11:42)