Have you had a time when the curtains of mystery were pulled back for just a second and you caught a glimpse of the glory of God’s word?
These moments of wonder and awe are why I love Bible study. They are the reason I have committed my life to the study and application of God’s word.
My Bible study journey has taken some interesting turns. I have notes and documents full of the findings from thousands of reading and study times. Themes in scripture start to crystalize as your experience grows and passages that were difficult become easier to understand. But I’ve also had potholes when I’ve studied and misunderstood, even preached things that weren’t there. These potential potholes are why it’s helpful to have a solid Bible Study method.
For the next several weeks we’re going to take a look at a Bible Study Method. A set of skills, tools, and processes that generations of Bible preachers and teachers have used in their search for scriptural truth.
What is the Bible?
The Bible is a collection of 66 books. These were written by various human authors under the inspiration of God. That means that the Bible was given to us by God.
“All scripture is given by inspiration of God” 2 Timothy 3:16a
The Bible is composed of many types of writing including history, poetry, prophecy, and letters. While all of these had a particular purpose at the time of their writing, the Bible teaches that they are also beneficial to us.
16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. 2 Timothy 3:16–17 (emphasis mine)
Why Study the Bible?
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15
The Bible is meant to be applied, and careful Bible study is how we can apply it in a right way.
What’s the Structure for Bible Study?
There’s a great children’s song that provides a great outline for Bible Study.
As I read God's Word each day, I will ask myself three questions: What does it say? What does it mean? What is God saying to me? I will ask God's Holy Spirit- who lives in my heart, to show me the answers clearly, so I'll know God's message to me. — Helen Wunnenberg
These questions are the simplest way to summarize good Bible reading and studying.
What does it say? – Observation
The Bible is the authority. We must begin with the very words of scripture and not stray from what they are actually saying.
We must read THE BIBLE and study THE BIBLE. Too often, in the age of the internet and with the accessibility of helps, we are tempted to go to some Bible study guide, devotional book, or commentary. And some of these may be good, but they are no replacement for the words of God.
A lot of our method will cover knowing what it says.
What does it mean? – Interpretation
To learn what it means we need to read it multiple times, look up words, and memorize it to fully comprehend it.
Pray about your study. Beginning, Middle and End seek God as you look into His word.
What is God saying to me? – Application
The Bible is meant to be applied. We could just let it sit on the shelf and treat it as an academic book. But its real power is seen as we hide it in our hearts, and as God’s Holy Spirit applies it to our lives.
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. John 16:13
Thy word have I hid in mine heart, That I might not sin against thee. Psalm 119:11
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, And a light unto my path. Psalm 119:105
Your Turn
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Comment below some of the tools, methods and habits you’ve used in Bible Study. These may be a blessing and encouragement to others.
