How to Study the Bible
The Bible reveals who God is, who we are, and why we are here. Through Bible study we gain insights into God, human nature, and God's will for all creation. Studying with the Scripture can equip, guide, and reveal how to live in life-giving ways that deepen our friendship with God and others. The benefits of Bible study are directly related to how open, attentive, and obedient we are to what we read.
Jesus exemplified the love of God's Word in every area of his life. He used Scripture to: answer those who tested him, resist temptation, find guidance, encourage his heart, comfort others, explain his actions, and, ultimately, face his own death.
Download the YOUVERSION Bible from any app store and you can carry a Bible and a Reading plan on your phone or tablet. Alternatively, you can obtain reading plans online or through your local Christian bookstore.
Experiment With These Methods
There are many ways to be fed from the Scriptures. Try each of these methods over time and see how God uses them in your life.
The Artist Method
When reading ANY passage of Scripture, consider the following three questions as you read...
- What speaks to my heart here?
Draw a heart next to the word that speaks to your heart. - What new thought or idea comes to me?
Draw a light bulb next to the new thought or idea. - What does Scripture move me to do?
Draw a hand next to the action you want to take.
Now, consider how you can live into one of these insights today. Share your insights with a friend.
The Detective Method
When reading a STORY passage, let the narrative take shape in your mind's eye...
- Observe all the facts. Imagine the scene.
Ask the who, when, where, what questions that detail what is going on here. - Interpret the facts. Ask the why and wherefore questions.
What meaning did the words or actions have for the characters? - Then apply your study to your own life.
What meaning do the words or actions have for you? Ask how will this change my life? What is my "take-away" here?
The Treasure Seeker Method
When reading ANY passage of Scripture consider the following application questions...
- Is there an example here for me to follow?
- Is there a promise to claim?
- Is there a command to obey?
- Is there a truth to be applied?
- Is there a prayer here for me to pray?
- Is there a sin to be confessed?
- Is there a question God is asking me?
The Student-of-Jesus Method
Before you plunge into the Old Testament, be sure to read one of the Gospels and try to discover all you can about Jesus. Ask yourself the following questions...
- What seems important to Jesus?
- What questions does Jesus ask people?
- What questions do people ask Jesus?
- What do you admire about Jesus' character?
- What attitudes/behaviors does Jesus commend?
- How is Jesus different from other leaders?
- What claims does Jesus make about himself?
- What does Jesus say his Father is like?
- What does Jesus say the kingdom of God/heaven is like?
- How does what you discover encourage of challenge you?
Additional Ideas for Bible Study
Experiment with different ways of listening to Scripture
- Read the Bible out loud. Savor the words. Which words stand out for you? Keep these words with you all day.
- Listen to the Bible on tape or CD while driving or exercising.
- Print a verse on a card and place it where you will see it throughout the day--or--put a verse on your screen saver.
To enhance your understanding of the Biblical context and the meaning the text may have had to its original audience,
invest in a Bible commentary, a Bible Dictionary, or go online and type in places, cultures, and peoples you read about in your Bible study.
Visit the Christ Church Bookstore or another Christian resource center and look through the array of Bible study guides available. Does one of the study guides intrigue you? Let your desire guide you in choosing one for further study.
If systematic Bible study appeals to you, consider joining a Bible study at the church or in your community. Or invite a few other people to begin your own.
Write down the questions or difficult issues that arise for you when studying the Bible. Make an appointment with a pastor and talk these through with him or her.