1. Introduction
With so many misuses of Scripture, it’s crucial to approach the Bible carefully. Like the Bereans we’re called to search the Scriptures daily.
2. Observation
We can be tempted to rush through our reading of the Bible, but the psalmist helps us to slow down and delight in God’s Word.
3. Highlighting
Get the highlighters to mark key words, important details, repeated phrases, or anything that stands out as you read.
4. Context
Has someone ever taken your words out of context? That’s frustrating isn’t it? How much worse it would be for us to take God’s Word out of context.
5. Asking Questions
Someone has said, “a text with context is a pretext for making the Bible say whatever you want.” Careful Bible study involves asking good questions and exploring the context.
6. Seeing the Big Picture
Before diving deep into a verse we must understand where it fits in the overall flow of the book, and how that book fits into the larger story of Scripture.
7. Bible Survey
Good study can’t be rushed. Take time to gain an overview of the book or you will lack the necessary background information to make sense of what you’re reading.
8. Meaning
Examining the words that are used in a passage can help us better understand the message that is being conveyed.
9. Word Study
Words might have several possible senses depending on the context. We must take our time to carefully consider key words and phrases when we study the Bible.
10. Related Verses
There are many passages in the Bible that give additional insight to our study. The tricky part is finding them. Cross references point us in the right direction.
11. Cross References
Cross references can be found in most Bibles, either in the center column or on the outer edge of the page. This brings greater clarity by speaking to the subject.
12. Good Teachers
As we’ve been studying how to approach Scripture more faithfully, it’s important to recognize that Bible study isn’t something we do in isolation. God designed us to learn together.
13. Commentaries
Commentaries are resources that explain the meaning of biblical books, usually going verse by verse. They provide information to help readers understand the text.
14. Genre
Understanding genre is part of good interpretation. It helps you grasp the author’s intent and rightly apply the Word of God.
15. Figures of Speech
A figure of speech is a literary device where words are used in a non-literal way for effect or emphasis. Understanding figurative language helps prevent confusion or misinterpretation.
16. Application
The believer has all necessary ingredients for spiritual growth, but without applying God’s Word, the reaction never takes place. The Bible is transformation waiting to happen.
17. Wrap Up
In this series we have looked at the three phases of Bible Study: 1) Observation, 2) Interpretation, and 3) Application. Now open God’s Word and listen to his voice