How to Study the Bible

Do you feel overwhelmed & struggle to know where to begin when it comes to studying the Bible? Here is a great resource to help you get started!

BIBLE STUDY QUESTIONS

Who is the author & the original audience?

What type of literature does this passage fall under?

When were these recorded events happening?

In summary, what is happening in the passage?

What stood out to you from the passage?

What does this teach us about:

• God?
  • What names / titles are used for Him?
  • How is He described & how would you personally describe Him?
  • What do you learn about God’s nature & character?
  • How does this passage related to or conflict with society’s view of God?
  • Did you have an incorrect view of God before reading this passage? If so, how has that changed?

• People – Christians & Non-Christians?
  • How does mankind respond to God in this passage?
  • What are some noticeable character traits in the people involved? Any tendencies?

• Sin?
  • How should I live my life based upon this passage?
  • What should I change in my life based upon this passage?

• Salvation?
  • What did this passage teach you about salvation?

• Personal Reflection
  • Do I need to confess anything?
  • Is there a command to obey?
  • Is there a principle to follow?

What would we miss if this passage had not been included in the Bible?

Remember that God is the greatest communicator, and He wants people to know the Truth!

see 1 Timothy 2:1-6

3 PARTS TO BIBLE STUDY

1. Observe – what do I see / read?
2. Interpret – what does it mean?
3. Apply – what does it mean to me?
   a. Applies to me regardless of cultural differences
   b. Applies only to certain people of another time / culture
   c. Applies to me in principle, though my circumstances today may be different
   

REMEMBER THAT ALL SCRIPTURE IS FOR US BUT NOT ALL SCRIPTURE APPLIES DIRECTLY TO US!

HOW TO TEST FOR VALID APPLICATION:

1. Never disregard the literal sense.
2. Verify conclusions with other portions of Scripture.
3. Make sure your applications are truths that anyone can pull from the passage [i.e., you don’t have to do gymnastics to make your application fit].
4. Make sure it’s natural and not forced.

THE DANGER OF ALLEGORIZING (interpreting symbolically):

1. Too subjective
2. Strips Bible of its authority
3. Leads us into error
4. Clouds God’s intended meaning
5. Encourages pride – “I’m enlightened & see things in this passage that you can’t.”

FINAL THOUGHTS

When one or more interpretation seems possible, choose the simplest!
Keep the big picture and the small details always in mind.
Never consider your subject or passage exhausted – there’s always more!

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