How to Read the Bible

Prepared by Rev. John Springer

STUDY THE BIBLE:

With a prayer;

With a plan;

With a purpose;

With pen or pencil;

With obedience.

STUDY THE BIBLE INTELLIGENTLY BY:

1. Using tools such as a Bible Dictionary, Commentary, Concordance, et al.;
2. Knowing where you are going, ie., knowing where the books are in relation to each other,
3. Letting the Bible speak for itself
4. Being open to the leading of the Holy Spirit in studying the Bible;
5. Getting the proper historical context, ie., "a text out of context is mere pretext";
6. Significant underlining to bring out the sense of the passage, e.g., use of red and blue pencils or pens;
1. Using memory aids such as personally prepared flash cards or Navigator packs.

SEVEN METHODS FOR STUDYING THE BIBLE:

Study the Bible a book at a time.

Study the Bible by chapters.
a What is the principal subject of this chapter?
b. What is the leading lesson of this chapter?
c. Which is the verse which speaks to me in this chapter?
d. Who are the principal persons in this chapter?
e. What does this chapter teach concerning Christ?
f. Is there any example here for me to follow?
g. Is there any error for me to avoid?
h. Is there any duty for me to perform?
i. I there any promise for me to claim?
j. Is there any prayer for me to echo?

Study the Bible by paragraphs.

Study the Bible by verses.

Study significant words of the Bible (use of lexicons).

Study Biblical biographies.

Learn to pray from a study of the prayers of the Bible.

BROADER IMPLICATIONS OF BIBLE STUDY = PRACTICAL RESULTS