International Journal of Biblical Research Studies

Learning has been conceptualised through numerous educational theories that emphasise cognitive development, behavioural conditioning, social interaction, experiential engagement, and constructivist knowledge acquisition. While these theories have significantly contributed to educational scholarship, they are largely grounded in empirical observation and human reasoning, leaving a noticeable gap regarding a comprehensive learning theory explicitly derived from divine revelation. This study develops the Theory of Progressive Learning (TPL) as a Scripture-governed theo-theoretical framework founded principally upon Proverbs 1:5: "A wise man will hear and will increase learning..." Employing a scriptural review methodology with a Scripture-governed qualitative inductive research design underpinned by Grounded Truth Theory (GTT), the study conducts a canonical and exegetical investigation of Proverbs 1:5 alongside related biblical passages. The study argues that authentic learning is a progressive, lifelong process initiated through attentive hearing, sustained by teachability, illuminated by the Holy Spirit, governed by Scripture, and demonstrated through wisdom and transformed living. From this biblical foundation emerges a comprehensive learning theory comprising clearly defined constructs, philosophical and theological underpinnings, assumptions, principles, propositions, and a conceptual model applicable to Biblical Education, Bibliogogy, Christian discipleship, leadership development, and theological formation. The findings demonstrate that Proverbs 1:5 contains a coherent theology of lifelong learning that extends beyond wisdom literature and is consistently affirmed throughout Scripture. The study concludes that TPL offers a distinctly biblical contribution to educational theory by establishing lifelong learning as a divine process of progressive wisdom acquisition under the supreme authority of God's Word.