The purpose of "Study"

When did the gospel become a topic to debate?  When did it become an item to pull apart and have a "smart" conversation about?  This question has been brewing in my heart for a while now.  Yes I'm sure someone will comment about how we need to study and show ourselves approved, I agree.  Study is different though than becoming a philisophical thinker who prides themselves on neat big words.  Our lives are to be impacted by hearing the voice of the Lord and obeying.  We obey out of his love for us.  If we dont understand that as Christians, we are no more than pharisees who are stuck in the law.  Let us experience Christ.