Practical Suggestions for Studying the Bible

 

 

Below are some practical techniques that will enhance your Bible study as you read and apply God’s word in your life.

 

Hebrews 4:12 – “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”

 

I.        Prepare your mind to be open to God.

 

         A.       Study for more than intellectual exercise.

         B.      Realize that God speaks through His word.

         C.      Remember how much He loves you.

         D.      Decide you want to let this word make you more like him.

 

II.       Get a translation you can understand.

 

III.      Get familiar with the major divisions of the Bible

         A.       Old and New Testaments

         B.      In the Old Testament, history, law, poetry, prophets

         C.      In the New Testament, gospels, Acts, letters of Paul, general letters, Revelation

 

IV.      Learn how to use Bible helps

         A.       Many people have spent huge amounts of time doing study that can save you time if you know how to use the tools

         B.      Books: Concordance, Topical Bible, Bible dictionary, Bible atlas, Bible handbook, commentaries

         C.      Computer programs have combined all these books into one program

 

V.       Questions to ask as introduction

 

         A.       Who is writing?

         B.      To whom is he writing?

         C.      What is the occasion of the writing?

         D.      What type of literature is he writing?

                  1.       Narrative (stories and events)

                  2.       Letters (to churches, individuals, or general to all)

                  3.       Prophecy

                  4.       Poetry

 

VI.      As you read, ask these questions to apply them to yourself.

 

         A.       Are there commands to obey?

         B.      Are there promises to trust in?

         C.      Are there good examples to imitate?

         D.      Are there bad examples to avoid?

         E.      Are there principles I can apply to my life?

         F.       Are there things that help me know God of Jesus better?

 

VII.     Write down your questions.  Ask someone who has a better Bible understanding than you.

 

VIII.    Live the principles you learn.

 

         A.       James 1:22 – “But be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.

         B.      Luke 8:15 – “But the one that fell on the good ground are those who, having heard the word with a noble and good heart, keep it and bear fruit with patience.

 

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