Why We Don’t Have to Fear Studying Outside Writings

For many Pentecostals—there has been a long-standing fear of studying anything outside of the Bible. This fear often comes from good intentions: a desire to protect the purity of Scripture and avoid deception. However, this mindset can actually weaken faith rather than strengthen it.

The truth is, God’s people have always studied beyond Scripture, using history, culture, and even non-biblical texts to gain wisdom and defend the faith. Even biblical writers themselves referenced outside works!

The Biblical Example: Even the Bible References Other Writings

     One of the best ways to ease concerns about studying outside sources is to point to examples from Scripture where biblical authors did this themselves:

Jude 14-15 quotes from 1 Enoch, a non-canonical book.

Paul (Acts 17:28) quotes Greek poets when speaking to the Athenians.

     The Old Testament references the Book of Jasher (Joshua 10:13, 2 Samuel 1:18) and the Book of the Wars of the Lord (Numbers 21:14).

     Clearly, studying outside texts is not sinful, but rather a tool for better understanding God’s Word.

What We Can Study Without Fear

     To help remove fear, let’s break down different types of writings that can strengthen our understanding of Scripture and history—without leading us into deception.

1. The Bible Itself: The Foundation

Bible study is always primary. We should use trusted translations like the KJV, NKJV, ESV, or NASB to compare wording and get better accuracy.

     Understanding biblical languages (Hebrew, Greek, Aramaic) helps uncover deeper meanings.

2. Ancient Writings That Help Us Understand the Bible

     Some books aren’t Scripture, but they shed light on biblical events, language, and culture.

Jewish Writings

Josephus (Antiquities of the Jews, The Jewish War) – A first-century historian who confirms many biblical events, including Jesus' crucifixion.

The Dead Sea Scrolls – Ancient manuscripts that prove the Old Testament’s accuracy and show Jewish expectations about the Messiah.

The Septuagint (LXX) – The Greek Old Testament, often quoted by Jesus and the apostles.

The Pseudepigrapha: A Word of Caution

Some people fear the Pseudepigrapha (Jewish religious books not in the Bible), but these texts can help us understand Second Temple Jewish thought. While not inspired, they give background on ideas that shaped the New Testament world.

1 Enoch – Quoted in Jude; expands on angelology and fallen beings.

The Book of Jubilees – An interpretation of Genesis that shows early Jewish views on creation and angels.

2 Baruch & 4 Ezra – Discuss God’s judgment and the afterlife, influencing early Christian thought.

     The key is discernment—we don’t take these books as doctrine, but we can study them to understand biblical themes more deeply.

3. Christian History That Strengthens Faith

     Many great Christian leaders throughout history studied widely and didn’t fear outside writings:

Early Church Fathers (Irenaeus, Ignatius, Justin Martyr) – Defended Christianity against heresies.

The Nicene Creed – A simple statement of core Christian beliefs.

Reformation Writings (Luther, Wesley, Spurgeon) – Many revivalists studied deeply while holding to Scripture.

     Even Pentecostal pioneers like Smith Wigglesworth and Aimee Semple McPherson were well-read and encouraged people to be knowledgeable in faith.

4. Practical Resources That Help Us in Life

God gives wisdom in many areas, not just spiritual matters. Some writings help us navigate life wisely:

   The U.S. Constitution & Law Codes – Understanding religious freedom is critical in today’s world.

     Science, Geography, and History – These fields confirm biblical events and God’s creation.

     Books on Leadership & Ministry – Growing in wisdom is not unspiritual!

5. Discernment Books for Spiritual Warfare & Pagan Influence

     Many Christians fear studying the occult, but understanding our enemy is part of spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:12).

The Unseen Realm (Michael Heiser) – Explores the spiritual world of the Bible.

Books on the Occult (for research, not practice!*) – Helps us expose deception and understand modern pagan trends.

Biblical Archaeology – Confirms biblical accuracy through historical discoveries.

Final Thought: No Fear—Just Discernment

    The Bible is supreme, but that doesn’t mean we should fear history, language, and culture. If we refuse to study, we miss out on deeper understanding and risk being ignorant in areas where God calls us to be wise.

     Instead of fearing outside writings, we should test everything by Scripture (1 Thessalonians 5:21). The goal is not to replace the Bible—but to enhance our understanding of it.

     By approaching study with discernment, prayer, and wisdom, we can grow stronger in faith, bolder in truth, and more prepared for the days ahead.