Profiting from the Word

by Arthur W. Pink

The true source of spiritual nutrition to gain truth and life! A classic from one of the finest Christian writers of the twentieth century. " There is grave reason to believe that much Bible reading and Bible study of the last few years has been of no spiritual profit to those who engaged in it. Yes, we go further; we greatly fear that in many instances it has proved a curse rather than a blessing. This is strong language, we are well aware, yet no stronger than the case calls for. Divine gifts may be misused, and Divine mercies abused. That this has been so in the present instance is evident by the fruits produced. Even the natural man may (and often does) take up the study of the Scriptures with the same enthusiasm and pleasure as he might of the sciences. Where this is the case, his store of knowledge is increased, and so also is his pride. Like a chemist engaged in making interesting experiments, the intellectual searcher of the Word is quite elated when he makes some discovery in it; but the joy of the latter is no more spiritual than would be that of the former. Again, just as the successes of the chemist generally increase his sense of self-importance and cause him to look with disdain upon others more ignorant than himself, so alas, is it often the case with those who have investigated Bible numerics, typology, prophecy and other such subjects. "The Word of God may be taken up from various motives. Some read it to satisfy their literary pride. In certain circles it has become both the respectable and popular thing to obtain a general acquaintance with the contents of the Bible simply because it is regarded as an educational defect to be ignorant of them. Some read it to satisfy their sense of curiosity, as they might any other book of note. Others read it to satisfy their sectarian pride. They consider it a duty to be well versed in the particular tenets of their own denomination and so search eagerly for proof-texts in support of "our doctrines." Yet others read it for the purpose of being able to argue successfully with those who differ from them. But in all this there is no thought of God, no yearning for spiritual edification, and therefore no real benefit to the soul. Of what, then, does a true profiting from the Word consist? Does not 2 Timothy 3:16,17 furnish a clear answer to our question? There we read, "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." Observe what is here the Holy Scriptures are given us not for intellectual gratification and carnal speculation, but to furnish unto "all good works," and that by teaching, reproving, correcting us. Let us endeavor to amplify this by the help of other passages." 1. THE SCRIPTURES AND SIN 2. THE SCRIPTURES AND GOD 3. THE SCRIPTURES AND CHRIST 4. THE SCRIPTURES AND PRAYER 5. THE SCRIPTURES AND GOOD WORKS 6. THE SCRIPTURES AND OBEDIENCE 7. THE SCRIPTURES AND THE WORLD 8. THE SCRIPTURES AND THE PROMISES 9. THE SCRIPTURES AND JOY 10. THE SCRIPTURES AND LOVE Arguably Arthur Pink's finest book, Profiting from The Word demonstrates the nourishing and life supporting effect of Bible reading (rightly done) on the believer's attitude to sin, God, prayer, good works, obedience, the world, the promises, joy and love. It’s a clear, stirring treatise for all readers, and will prove excellent for group study. Especially recommended for young believers.

Genres: Christian, Theology, Nonfiction, Religion, Christian Living, Christianity

110 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 1952

About the author

Arthur Walkington Pink was born in Nottingham, England on April 1, 1886 and became a Christian in his early 20s. Though born to Christian parents, prior to conversion he migrated into a Theosophical society (an occult gnostic group popular in England during that time), and quickly rose in prominence within their ranks. His conversion came from his father's patient admonitions from Scripture. It was Proverbs 14:12, 'there is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death,' which particularly struck his heart and compelled him to renounce Theosophy and follow Jesus.

Desiring to grow in knowledge of the Bible, Pink migrated to the United States to study at Moody Bible Institute. In 1916 he married Vera E. Russell, from Kentucky. However, he left after just two months for Colorado, then California, then Britain. From 1925 to 1928 he served in Australia, including as pastor of two congregations from 1926 to 1928, when he returned to England, and to the United States the following year. He eventually pastored churches Colorado, California, Kentucky and South Carolina.

In 1922 he started a monthly magazine entitled Studies in Scriptures which circulated among English-speaking Christians worldwide, though only to a relatively small circulation list of around 1,000.

In 1934 Pink returned to England, and within a few years turned his Christian service to writing books and pamphlets. Pink died in Stornoway, Scotland on July 15, 1952. The cause of death was anemia.

After Pink's death, his works were republished by the Banner of Truth Trust and reached a much wider audience as a result. Biographer Iain Murray observes of Pink, "the widespread circulation of his writings after his death made him one of the most influential evangelical authors in the second half of the twentieth century." His writing sparked a revival of expository preaching and focused readers' hearts on biblical living.

Reviews

[Josue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some read the Bible for prideful reasons, some out of curiosity, and some for other unspiritual reasons. Yet such motives have nothing to do with God and the yearning for spiritual edification. This book focuses on reading the Bible with right motives, and how, upon doing so, we profit from it.

Each chapter begins with a brief introduction to the relationship between Scripture and some topic such as God, sin, prayer, good works, joy, and love. The author then provides seven main points for each chapter, which illustrate either how the Word profits one’s reading, or what must be done in the life of a believer for the Word to profit him/her.

This book is concise and clearly written. It was a blessing to read each chapter, as I was challenged to stop and consider my own attitude and intentions when reading the Word. There were a few things I disagreed with, but nothing heretical or damaging to the book as a whole, thus I really liked this book!

[Anne Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bible is the only book we read where the author is always present. Pink does a great job of practically outlining how our reading of the Scriptures should make us more Christ-like. The content is largely based on 2 Timothy 3:16 "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness." Pink challenges the reader to really examine if they are merely reading the Word of God to acquire head knowledge or are seeking the Holy Spirit's guidance to be transformed in their daily lives. This book is truly a treasure and one that should be re-read often.

[Regina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am often frustrated by modern books, particularly in the business or spiritual genres, that have one or two ideas that they beat mercilessly for 385 pages, enough to make it worthwhile for the publisher to support.

This is not the case with Pink's Profiting from the Word, which is a compilation of magazine articles that were written between 1930-1932. Every sentence begged meditation. I borrowed this book from our church library, so I couldn't keep it as long as I would have liked. A slow and careful daily plug to chew on is the approach this little study deserves.

[Sheri Ingersoll · Rating 5 out of 5]

06/15/24

Second reading. I enjoyed it even more!

A.W. Pink is one of my favorite authors. What are ways in which we profit from the Word? He breaks it down into The Scriptures and Sin/God/Christ/Prayer/Good Works/Obedience/the World/the Promises/Joy/Love. Every true believer has a reverence and deep love for God's Word. Are the reading and searching of the Scriptures really being blessed to our souls? Pink says, "Many are deceived on this matter, mistaking an eagerness to acquire knowledge for a spiritual love of the Truth (2 Thess. 2:10), and assuming that addition to their store of learning is the same thing as growth in grace. A great deal depends upon the end or aim we have before us when turning to God's Word. If it be simply to familiarize ourselves with its contents and become better versed in its details, it is likely that the garden of our soul will remain barren; but if with the prayerful desire to be rebuked and corrected by the Word, to be searched by the Spirit, to conform our hearts to its holy requirements, then we may expect a Divine blessing."

Some questions to ask ourselves:
*Am I acquiring a greater hatred of sin, and a practical deliverance from its power and pollution?
*Am I obtaining a deeper acquaintance with God and His Christ?
*Is my prayer-life healthier?
*Are my good works more abundant?
*Is my obedience fuller and gladder?
*Am I more separated from the world in my affections and ways?
*Am I learning to make a right and profitable use of God's promises, and so delighting myself in Him that His joy is my daily strength?

"Unless I can truthfully say that these are (in some measure) my experience, then it is greatly to be feared that my study of the Scriptures is profiting me little or nothing."

Good stuff! I need to read this book on a regular basis.

[Katie Bliss · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wanted to start the year right, as far as devotions go, so I figured I'd get Pink's input on the best way to glean as much as possible from the Bible reading - and this was the right move. I love how simple and direct Pink's writing is. He gets right to the heart of things and doesn't go over the top on crazy vocabulary or theology, just presents clear teachings from scripture on how you should be growing from what you read in the Bible.

[Pauline · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book about 30 years ago and found it to be helpful, but apparently I didn’t list it when I got on GoodReads. I’m preparing to teach our women’s group in the Spring— one of my assigned topics is “the Scripture”so I decided to use Arthur Pink’s book as a reference. I was reminded again how much I appreciated the book so just reread it. I am going to recommend it to our women when I teach.

[Matt Crawford · Rating 4 out of 5]

AW Pink is a fantastic writer. Much of his writing is academic. Yet some, like Profiting from the Word is devotional. It is broad and not as in depth as much of his other writing. Yet in some way it is not shallow either. It puts on display why Christians need to be “People of the Book”. This short little book is a call for Christians to focus on the primary tenets of our faith, which we cannot do unless we are people of the book.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a swift kick in the face! amazing book if you want to grow closer to God and grow in your daily devotions this book while bless you abundantly! this book is a wake up call and is extremely humbling. Hope this blesses you in your walk!

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful and Small Book on God's Word

Pink shows the reader how to profit from the Bible. Lots of practical applications and the book always points to Christ.

[Sarah Moorcroft · Rating 5 out of 5]

A challenging must read

[Allen Thornton · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Christ cannot be trusted at all unless he be known, and the better he is known the more will he be trusted.”

[Paul Stuart · Rating 5 out of 5]

A friend and I read through this over the course of a month. What a great book to facilitate discussion on the Word! Each chapter brings your attention to a specific topic taught in Scripture (such as sin, Christ, the promises of God, love, etc.), and Pink then exposits how the Christian can profit from the Bible's teaching. I would encourage you to read this book devotionally, and would definitely recommend reading it with someone else in order to discuss and retain its teachings.

[Jimmy]

Spiritually uplifting book. Challenges the readers to profit from the Word of God. The running theme is that the reading of the Word of God ought to change our lives, and that reading the Bible should not just be an academic exercise to add more intellectual contents to our minds. I would say this is probably my favorite work by Pink. Some of the points he made include the observation that a profitable reading of the Word of God ought to make us hate sin more, love Him more and desire to be obedient.

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I continue to be impressed by A.W. Pink's writings, and "Profiting from the Word" didn't disappoint. As believers, we are constantly exhorted by others to "be in the Word," and Pink explains throughout his book why reading and studying the Bible is so important and how it should "profit" us as believers. Pink's writing could be described as "all content, and no filler" and lends itself to easy outlining either for personal discipleship or for instruction of others. A great book!

[Joost Nixon · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book has shown me a bit how I have changed over the last 20+ years. I read it first with a friend and mentor from New Zealand. I found Pink's writing bracing and challenging. Now, a few decades later, I assigned it to some hermeneutics students, and found Pink shrill. He overplays his case. So I wouldn't recommend it, and understand a bit more fully why it is out of print.

[Brian Algie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great little book on many ways we ought to be profiting from our reading of Scripture. Especially helpful if you are consistently reading the Scriptures but leaving your time in the word with the thought, "Check, did my quiet time." It will challenge you and excite you to read, study, and meditate on God's word.

[Joost Nixon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Twenty years ago, when I first read this book, I might have given it 5 stars. But today--having assigned it to my son for a class--I find it a bit cranky and dark-side-of-the-moonish. Maybe it should stay out of print.

[YoungBishop · Rating 3 out of 5]

'How much profit do we gain from our reading of the Bible?' To find out reasons why we don't gain as much and how we can gain more, have a read; won't regret it.

[Peter Clegg · Rating 5 out of 5]

This little book has the potential to impact your quiet times greatly. Pink illustrates what being Changed by God's Word looks like.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Offers some good, convicting practical reminders about how and why the Christian studies scripture.

[Brian Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not a book about how to study the Bible. This is a book about the goals, the mindset, and desires to have when studying the Bible. Worth multiple re-readings.

[Becky Pliego · Rating 4 out of 5]

2020. I liked it more this time around. Really good.

2017:Good

[Mystie Winckler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Own. Paperback. Read with a book club.
5x5: Christian Living. Excellent and convicting.
So straightforward, applicable, and convicting! Will reread.

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good book.