The Milk Of The Word, a compilation of Scriptures for use in group sessions, otherwise referred to as a Bible Study, that actually, naturally, bring about what is attempted within the field of Nouthetic Counselling, also known as Biblical Counselling, where the counseled are encouraged to examine themselves in the light of the written word of God under the guidance of experienced counselors trained in the methodology.

The field of Nouthetic Counselling comprises of applying the three ideas found in the biblical Greek word nouthesia. These  are confrontation, concern, and change. To quote Jay Adams, the founder of Nouthetic Counselling, as biblical counselling is also known today: Nouthetic counseling consists of lovingly confronting people out of deep concern in order to help them make those changes that God requires.

The following is an analysis of each chapter that highlights the value of compilation of Scripture that makes up the Milk of the Word.

The excerpts from "Milk of the Word" present a theological perspective on the importance of foundational knowledge in understanding spiritual truths, particularly as it relates to Christian teachings. Here are some key points and assessments based on the content provided:

Foundational Knowledge: The author emphasizes the necessity of grasping the "rudiments of the first principles" of faith, drawing parallels to basic arithmetic and language skills. This analogy effectively illustrates the idea that without a solid foundation, deeper understanding and interpretation of spiritual truths become challenging.

Scriptural References: The use of various biblical passages (Hebrews, Isaiah, 1 Peter, Acts, Ephesians, and Colossians) supports the argument that spiritual growth requires a progression from basic to more complex teachings. The references to "milk" and "solid food" highlight the stages of spiritual maturity, suggesting that new believers must first absorb fundamental teachings before advancing.

Learning Process: The author likens spiritual learning to assembling a jigsaw puzzle, where understanding the context (the perimeter) is crucial for correctly interpreting individual pieces (scripture texts). This metaphor underscores the importance of context in biblical interpretation, warning against eisegesis (reading into the text) and advocating for exegesis (drawing out the text's meaning).

 

Humility and Growth: The text suggests that spiritual growth requires humility, likening the need for believers to become "babies" in their thinking. This notion challenges readers to set aside pride and preconceived notions to fully embrace the teachings of Christ and grow in righteousness.

 

Inheritance and Enlightenment: The excerpts discuss the concept of inheritance in the context of faith, emphasizing that understanding spiritual truths is essential for receiving the full benefits of one's faith. The call for enlightenment about spiritual realities aligns with the broader Christian theme of seeking wisdom and understanding through the Holy Spirit.

 

Warnings Against Deception: The mention of being cautious of "philosophy and vain deceit" reflects a concern for the influence of worldly ideas on spiritual understanding. This warning is relevant in contemporary discussions about the intersection of faith and secular thought.

 

Spiritual Maturity: The distinction between "milk" and "solid food" in Hebrews 5:13-14 emphasizes the need for believers to progress from basic teachings to deeper understanding. The idea that those who live on milk are "not experienced in the word of righteousness" suggests that spiritual maturity involves discernment and the ability to navigate moral complexities.

 

Childlike Faith: The references from Matthew (11:25 and 18:3-4) highlight the value of humility and childlike faith in the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus' teaching that one must become like a child to enter the Kingdom underscores the importance of approaching faith with openness and a willingness to learn.  

 

New Birth: The passage from John 3:3-7 introduces the concept of being "born anew" or "born from above," which is foundational to Christian belief. This new birth is essential for perceiving the Kingdom of God and signifies a transformative experience that enables believers to see spiritual truths.

 

Role of Scripture: The excerpts from 2 Timothy (2:15 and 3:15-16) stress the importance of Scripture in the believer's life. The idea that Scripture is "God-breathed" and profitable for teaching and correction reinforces the notion that engaging with the Bible is crucial for spiritual growth and understanding.

 

Pressing On to Perfection: Hebrews 6:1 encourages believers to move beyond the foundational teachings and strive for maturity. This call to "press on to perfection" suggests an ongoing journey of growth and transformation in the Christian life.

 

Sanctification and Holiness: The references to Ephesians 5:25-27 and 1 John 2:6 highlight the process of sanctification, where believers are cleansed and made holy through the Word. The goal is to be presented to Christ as pure and without defect, reflecting the transformative work of God in the believer's life.

 

New Creation: The assertion that those born of God do not continue in sin (1 John 3:8-9) emphasizes the radical change that occurs in a believer's life. The idea that God's seed remains in them suggests an inner transformation that aligns with God's nature, leading to a desire for righteousness.

 

Joy and Completeness: The concluding thoughts about being presented to Christ "pure, holy, and full of joy" encapsulate the ultimate goal of the Christian journey. The notion that believers are new creations with God dwelling within them speaks to the profound change that faith brings.

Overall, these excerpts reinforce the themes of spiritual growth, the necessity of humility and childlike faith, the transformative power of Scripture, and the importance of being born again. They present a holistic view of the Christian life, emphasizing both the initial experience of salvation and the ongoing process of sanctification and maturity in faith. The use of scriptural references throughout strengthens the theological arguments and provides a solid foundation for the teachings presented.