This is an interesting topic, I can safely assume that the priests and scribes, etc. had a more extensive library of scripture than did the early church, and I can also safely assume that the Kennedy's, Hagee's, Robertson's, etc. have a more extensive library than do any of us, including Ray!
But what is the catalyst in understanding? God is. Unless He draws us and opens our hearts to His Word we could quote every verse by memory and still think as a base, carnal man. On the other hand, as Chris stated earlier we must trust the scriptures and any revelation that we may receive, even if it sounds reasonable and attractive must be verified by His Word or else it has no Light, just the appearance of light. (paraphrased from Isaiah 8:20).
Jesus was not ambiguous when He stated;
Mat 11:27 All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him.
If we are blessed to be chosen to hear His Words and through God given faith are able to begin to understand we certainly will be motivated to search scripture diligently and pray for wisdom and discernment.
Deu 4:10 Especially the day that thou stoodest before the LORD thy God in Horeb, when the LORD said unto me, Gather me the people together and I will make them hear my words, that they may learn to fear me all the days that they shall live upon the earth and that they may teach their children.
Zec 13:9 And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The LORD is my God.
It is all of God, He has seen fit to give many of us unprecedented access to His Word through our present technology, all this was put in place before the foundation of the world to suit His plan and purpose for us. Trust in Him, listen to hear His voice in all things and be like the Bereans (Acts 17:11) as we work out our salvation (Phi 2:12).
His Peace to you,
Joe