Assuming that the believer can find the treasure the Holy Spirit has buried in a book of the Bible without diligent study is like trying to mine for gold or diamonds by strolling through a field above them.  For example, often historical or prophetical books will have appendices attached as additional chapters.  Without a thorough study of the language, history and grammar of the text, the average reader might think that these added chapters are part of the narrative.  Shallow reading can even suggest contradictions or other conflicts unless we understand that these appendices are explanatory amplifications or supporting evidences for the actual narrative.

The Scofield Reference Bible, the Ryrie Study Bible, the Life Application Study Bible, and many others have helpful introductory material at the beginning of each of the sixty-six books of the Bible.  The information provided usually includes something about the author, the audience, and the time and circumstances in which the book was written.  Knowing who wrote the book, to whom, and why will open up understanding that is otherwise difficult to discern.  Often a general outline is provided which goes beyond the chapter divisions in clarifying logical or chronological divisions.

It is far more mystical than spiritual to hope for sufficient illumination by merely reading a Bible book, but the reader should not be entirely dependent on the scholarship of others.  As we read study helps, our own spiritual discernment and faith in the Bible will confirm or question the ideas presented.  Of course, it’s possible for an unbelieving historian or student of ancient languages to understand some technical things that the untrained Christian may not, but skills developed through formal education or diligent personal study will never displace the discernment of the believing mind, regenerated and renewed by the Holy Spirit.  This is the confidence with which we persist in studying books of the Bible.