Why is it important to read the Bible for oneself?

The sermon emphasizes the need for personal engagement with Scripture, as exemplified by the Bereans in Acts 17:11. By reading and understanding God's word, believers can distinguish between the truth and the lies propagated by false prophets. In Jeremiah 23, the call to examine God’s word underscores the importance of personal responsibility in knowing what God has truly said. This engagement not only strengthens one's faith but also protects against the deceptions that arise when people rely solely on the words of others without verifying them against Scripture.