I study the Bible to know God, the truth, and to find direction for my daily life.
"For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart."
Hebrews 4:12
The Bible is the most unique and powerful book in the entire world because it is the inspired Word of God. It is the only tangible resource we have that conveys God’s power to save, sanctify, and equip its readers to serve him and others. As disciples (i.e., learners) of Jesus, it is important for us to learn to study the Bible, not simply read or hear it.
Studying the Bible is part of God’s plan to carry out his purposes in the lives of believers. In fact, Paul explained to Timothy that God had used his Word in Timothy’s life for his salvation, sanctification, and service. Look at what the Apostle wrote in 2 Timothy 3:15-17: “and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
For Bible study to be transformational in our lives, we need to have a faithful process that helps us arrive at the correct interpretation and application.
One method that has been used by many is called inductive Bible study. Consider the following process:
Observation
This essential first step in Bible study is to ask the question, “What do I see in the text?” Who is the author? To whom is he writing? What is the author’s primary reason for writing the book? When and where was it written? What is the historical and cultural context of this time and region? Read over the passages again. Note repetitive words and ideas, changes in theme or time, contrasts, cause and effect. Look for any and all details that the Lord may show you.
Interpretation
This second step asks the question, “What does it mean?” The goal here is to discover the primary meaning that the author originally intended. What is the author’s point? What prompted the author to write? What sin is being addressed? What truth or exhortation is being given? What other Scripture might help to better interpret this passage? Ask yourself if you have overlooked anything or made any assumptions. Once you have exhausted these questions, you are better prepared to identify the author’s main point.
Application
The final step of Bible study answers the question, “How does it work?” How is God calling me to apply this passage to my life? The most important part of Bible study is not what you learn from it but rather what you do with it. After all, it is meant to produce good works. Consider what the Bible says in James 1:25, “But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.” In order to accurately understand how God wants you to apply a specific scripture to your life, it is crucial that you spend time with him in prayer. The possibilities are endless. He may be making you aware of sin in your life, reminding you of a foundational truth, or preparing you for where he is leading you next.
PRAYER
Father, thank you for the gift of the Bible. Without it I shudder to think where I would be today. Through the power of your Word, you have saved me, and are faithfully sanctifying and equipping me for your service. Your Word is a lamp to my feet and light to my path (Psalm 119:105). Help me to treasure it. I pray, Father, that you would fill me with a deep longing to spend time with you in your Word and give me the wisdom required to interpret and apply your powerful words to my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.