Is there a difference between reading and understanding the Bible?

If someone reads the Bible, does that mean that he understands all that he has read?

Consider the example of Phillip and the E·thi·o´pi·an eunuch:

"Philip ran alongside and heard him reading aloud Isaiah the prophet, and he said: “Do you actually know what you are reading?” He said: “Really, how could I ever do so, unless someone guided me?”' (Acts 8:30, 31)

There is a true difference between reading something and understanding it. To illustrate: one can read an instruction manual, but if he fails to understand it, of what use is it to him?

The same principle applies to the Bible. We can read it all we want, but unless we seek to find true understanding, we may miss out on "finding the very knowledge of God" and even "eternal life":

"If you call out for understanding itself and you give forth your voice for discernment itself, if you keep seeking for it as for silver, and as for hid treasures you keep searching for it, in that case you will understand the fear of Jehovah, and YOU WILL FIND THE VERY KNOWLEDGE OF GOD." (Prov. 2:3-5)

"THIS MEANS EVERLASTING LIFE, their taking in knowledge of you, the only true God, and of the one whom you sent forth, Jesus Christ." (John 17:3)

“Make me understand, that I may observe your law and that I may keep it with the whole heart . . . THAT I MAY KEEP LIVING.” (Ps 119:34, 144)

For more, see:
UNDERSTANDING THE BIBLE - What Will Help You?

Search For Bible Truths - ARCHIVE 

Scriptures Index

Search For Bible Truths - Search Guide