Usually, I'll outline the chapter in my own words. Then I'll consider what the text means to me and then I'll seek to apply what I learned from the chapter into my life. Is there anything else that I need to consider as I study? Any other questions that I would need to consider?
2007-01-20 13:41:45 · 12 answers · asked by ? 4 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Good luck on that babe.
2007-01-20 13:50:36 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
First, try not to consider "what the text means to me." Scripture interprets scripture. Don't ask "What does this mean to me?" just ask "What does this mean?" There are lots of things to look for as you study scripture. Are there any repeated words or phrases? Who are the main characters? Who wrote the book? Who was his audience? What do the passages before and after this passage teach? How does this passage fit in the context of the book and history? Are there any other passages that teach about this subject, and what do they say? What type of literary genre is this? (for example, poetry like the Psalms are interpreted differently than historical narrative like Job would be interpreted). There's a great book called, "A Basic Guide to Biblical Interpretation" by Dr. Stein. Its a great, entry level hermeneutics book. It explains why all this is important to consider. Biggest thing: keep studying!!
2007-01-20 15:02:54 · answer #2 · answered by Bucktastic 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, I usually do just a bit of research on the who, what, when, where, why and how of what's being written. I have a good reference Bible for that, as well as online (of course lol).
You might also try looking at your reference Bible and seeing how they organize each chapter, then follow along those guidelines. It's a personal thing of course :)
2007-01-20 13:47:31 · answer #3 · answered by arewethereyet 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
This may seem elementary, but scripture study is best coupled with prayer. In seeking to understand true meaning, it behooveth a man to ask the Author and Finisher for its intent. God, having inspired that book, knows every nuance thereof at every level of understanding. Let him distill the truth into your soul as you read and inspire you with the most appropriate level of comprehension possible fitted to your particular situation.
Most people who read the Bible never pray to find out if it's true and indeed what that truth means to them. Thus, for them, it remains a mere book, and they in turn litter this section with inane babble and asinine childishness. Ask for inspiration.
2007-01-20 13:47:01 · answer #4 · answered by Fergi the Great 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think you got bible study confused with knowledge acquistion. Begin your study with prayer. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you as you read the Holy Word of God. Earnestly seek God's will for you and how He can use you to His purpose.
2007-01-20 13:48:39 · answer #5 · answered by charles b 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The Bible tells us that Ezra “prepared his heart to consult the law of Jehovah and to do it and to teach in Israel regulation and justice.” (Ezra 7:10) Prayer enables us to approach the study of God’s Word with the proper attitude. We want our heart, our inmost self, to be receptive to the instruction that Jehovah gives us. At the beginning of each study session, petition Jehovah for the help of his spirit. (Luke 11:13) Ask him to help you understand the meaning of what you will study, how it relates to his purpose, how it can help you to discern between good and bad, how you should apply his principles in your life, and how the material affects your relationship with him. (Prov. 9:10) As you study, “keep on asking God” for wisdom. (Jas. 1:5) Honestly evaluate yourself in the light of what you learn as you seek Jehovah’s help in getting rid of erroneous thoughts or hurtful desires. Always “respond to Jehovah with thanksgiving” for the things he reveals. (Ps. 147:7) This prayerful approach to study leads to intimacy with Jehovah, since it enables us to respond to him as he speaks to us through his Word.—Ps. 145:18Meditate on what you read in the Bible. (Psalm 1:1-3; 77:11, 12) That means to ponder over the material. You might liken this to digesting food. You can digest spiritual food by relating what you are reading to things you already know. Consider how the material affects your life, or reflect on what it reveals about Jehovah’s qualities and dealings.
2007-01-20 14:16:47 · answer #6 · answered by babydoll 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes this, who wrote the book you're studying, who was it written to, where was it written, when was it written, what was the writing about, why was it written, and what does it mean to you today. I like to call it the 7 Ws
2007-01-20 13:48:20 · answer #7 · answered by Heaven's Messenger 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Ask yourself: How can I apply these words from men and become holy?
2007-01-20 13:46:47 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
"do I believe this because I've been told it's true for so long, or because I really believe it?"
that's the one that saved me from christianity.
2007-01-20 13:46:35 · answer #9 · answered by phalsephasod 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
What does it teach about Christ
2007-01-20 13:49:03 · answer #10 · answered by beek 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋