How to Read the Bible and Actually Hear from God
Scroll to read a recap of Pastor Rachel Culver’s sermon from July 13, 2025!
Like some of the greatest works of art, we’ve heard about them—maybe even seen them in passing—but we’ve never really stopped to look closely. Some of the most powerful masterpieces exist right in front of us, yet we’ve never taken them in.
That’s exactly how many of us approach the Bible. We might know a few verses, recognize familiar stories, or have grown up hearing sermons. But if we’re honest, sometimes it just feels like. . .words on a page. Rules. History. Information.
The Bible is one of the most powerful ways God reveals Himself to us, yet we often treat it like just another book to study. It’s not a spiritual encyclopedia. It’s how God shows us who He is and how deeply He loves us.
What’s the Difference between Knowing and Experiencing?
Knowledge is something you learn.
Revelation is something God shows you.
When Scripture Comes Alive
There’s a moment in Luke 24 that captures this beautifully. Two men were walking the road to Emmaus, heartbroken and confused after Jesus’s crucifixion. A stranger joined them and started explaining Scripture in a way they had never heard before. As He spoke, their hearts began to burn within them. They didn’t realize it right away—but the stranger was Jesus.
They already knew the Scriptures. But when Jesus revealed how it all pointed to Him, something shifted. It wasn’t just head knowledge anymore—it became a fresh revelation in the heart.
What Does This Revelation Look Like?
The Bible is the primary source of revelation from God.
It’s not just an old book. Through it, God speaks, reveals His heart, and invites us to know Him personally.
Knowledge is discovered by us, but revelation is disclosed to us.
We can learn facts and gather information, but true understanding happens when God opens our eyes to see more than just words on a page.
Knowledge will inform us, but it’s revelation that will transform us.
Learning about God is a start, but meeting Him changes everything. Revelation turns belief into something real and personal.
Information becomes revelation when God unveils our eyes.
You might read the same verse dozens of times, but one day, it hits different. That’s God revealing something deeper to your heart.
Revelation is experiential—it’s truth finding a home in our hearts.
God doesn’t just want us to know about Him. He wants us to know Him. Revelation is when His truth becomes alive and personal—something we live, not just believe.
How Can You Experience This Revelation?
Start with an open heart.
Don’t just look for answers—come expecting to meet Someone.Ask God to speak.
Before you read, simply say, “God, speak to me through this.”Be honest.
You don’t need perfect faith or perfect prayers. Bring your doubts, your questions, your curiosity. He welcomes it.Look for Jesus.
From prophecies to poetry to parables, the whole Bible points to Him.Slow down and reflect.
Don’t rush. Let a word or phrase linger. Sit with it. Write down what stands out—even if you don’t fully understand it yet.
The Word as Revelation
The Bible isn’t just something to study or follow—it’s an invitation to relationship with Jesus. What if we stopped treating it like a manual and started reading it like a conversation—with Someone who already knows us and wants to be known?
When we come to Scripture as a meeting place with our Father, something shifts. We begin to see more, understand more, and are changed by it.
Knowledge will inform us, but it’s His revelation that will transform us.
Tap to watch Pastor Caleb Culvers’ full sermon on Youtube.
Here's a 5-day devotional guide based on this sermon:
Day 1: Unveiling God’s Love
Reading: John 3:16–21; Romans 5:6–11
Devotional: Just as the sermon described the moment a twelve-year-old encountered the revelation of God’s love, today we focus on experiencing that same love anew. As you read, don’t simply process the information—ask God to reveal His love to you personally. Reflect on times when you’ve felt God’s love in a tangible way. How did it change you?
Day 2: Seeing Jesus in Scripture
Reading: Luke 24:13–35
Devotional: The story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus reminds us that Jesus is present throughout all of Scripture. As you read today’s passage, imagine walking alongside Him. What would you ask? How might He explain the Scriptures to you?
Day 3: The Power of Revelation
Reading: Ephesians 1:15–23
Devotional: Paul’s prayer for the Ephesians highlights the vital role of spiritual revelation. As you read, pay attention to the specific things Paul asks God for. How might your life be different if you received “the spirit of wisdom and revelation”?
Day 4: Tasting the Sweetness of God’s Word
Reading: Psalm 119:97–104
Devotional: The psalmist describes God’s words as “sweeter than honey.” This image invites us to savor Scripture, not just read it. As you go through today’s passage, slow down. What verses stand out to you? How does God’s Word “taste” to you today?
Day 5: Finding God in Suffering
Reading: Romans 8:18–39
Devotional: Though not mentioned directly in the sermon, the theme of God’s presence in suffering is essential to our journey of faith. Today’s passage reminds us that nothing can separate us from the love of God. As you read, consider how these verses might encourage someone going through hardship. Reflect on your own experiences of God’s faithfulness in difficulty. How has suffering revealed more of God’s character to you?
There’s an opportunity for you to grow in your spiritual journey, build meaningful community, and truly get connected. At Radiant Church, we’re passionate about helping people grow in faith, encounter the presence of God, and be part of a church grounded in Spirit and truth.