I will also add to my earlier post that an understanding of the time period of the NT will help the reader of the Bible understand the culture and background of those times.
In addition a working knowledge of the original Kione Greek is invaluable to studying the NT.
Understanding the different moods and tenses of verbs has increased my understanding of the NT.
If you have a good grasp of those two you'll have a real good chance of understanding the Word.
Finally, keep everything in context.
I believe the reason we have the doctrinal problems of today stems from the failure to follow these precepts.