How to Study the Bible

Dusty Bibles lead to dirty lives.

Do you want to apply God’s Word in your life? Good. The study of scripture is well known to correlate with spiritual growth. But studying the Bible goes far beyond casually reading of the scriptures. Are there strategies that have been proven to enhance the understanding and application of the Word in the believer’s life?

I will make a few basic suggestions, but the best thing is for me to suggest a book that deals with Bible study methods or how to study the Bible. I have several very good ones, but the best one I have used I will refer to here. It is Living By the Book by Howard G. Hendricks and William D. Hendricks.

While much of what they have to say is culled from other good sources, they cover all the bases in an understandable fashion.

Here are three distinct areas to approach when studying the Bible, in order of application.

Observation- First, I’d suggest reading and rereading a passage or a book to get the gist of the message and the context. Familiarity with the text is vital. Another a good procedure is to read through the Bible once a year to continue to familiarize yourself with its total message.

As you read the Bible, pay special attention to the context and the argument of the writer. Ask and answer questions like: Who is writing? To whom is he writing? Why is he writing? Is there a problem he is addressing? What is the purpose and theme of the book? You can ask this last question of every paragraph and chapter as well as for the whole book.

Ten strategies for reading the Bible from Hendricks and Hendricks:

Read Thoughtfully Read Repeatedly Read Patiently Read Selectively Read Prayerfully Read Imaginatively Read Meditatively Read Purposefully Read Acquisitively Read Telescopically

Look for things that are: Emphasized Repeate Related Alike Unlike True to Life

Interpretation

5 Keys to Interpretation: Content Context Comparison Culture Consultation

Application: See the “nine questions to ask”...