The biblical concept of self-education is rooted in the idea of personal growth and spiritual development, as seen in Proverbs 1:7, which emphasizes the importance of acquiring wisdom and knowledge. The Bible encourages believers to take an active role in their own education, seeking wisdom and discernment through prayer, meditation, and study of Scripture, as exemplified in Psalms 119:66, where the psalmist asks God to teach him knowledge and good judgment. Furthermore, 2 Timothy 2:15 urges Christians to be diligent in their study of the Word, striving to present themselves as approved workers who correctly handle the truth. Through self-education and a commitment to spiritual growth, believers can deepen their understanding of God's will and live a life that honors Him, as expressed in Romans 12:2, which encourages transformation through the renewing of the mind.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and self-education in his sermon 'Reading That Incites Thinking.' He recounts a conversation between Dr. Samuel Johnson and a king, highlighting that reading should stimulate deeper thought rather than just be a passive activity. Tozer argues
