whats the best way to begin to hve a systematic study of the bible,start @ beginning or topics?

Question

I use to read a chapter a day & discoverd many things in the bible that even the ministers did not realize & i went through it abt 3 times & i want to get going again but should i do it the same way?

Answer 1

I am surprised at all the "topical study" answers.

If you are someone who learns easily from reading (and it sounds as if you are), I advise that you read the bible from beginning to end. Twice. Here's why:

1st, reading each book through, in complete context, gives you a much better understanding of the whole book.

2nd, "topical" studies mean that you learn what someone has decided what you should learn, and you miss what they decide to leave out, as well as missing out on the context.

3rd, the bible is, to a large degree, arranged chronologically. Reading through instead of "topically" provides a much better *historical* overview.

4th, reading the *whole* bible twice allows you to draw connections between the Old Testament and New Testament that were not clear from reading through only once. The first time through, you can *really see* how Jesus and the apostles were operating under the Mosaic Law (since you read them prior). The second time through, you can *really see* how the Old Testament prophecies were manifested in the New Testament (since you have in mind those verses quoted in the New Testament).

Additional info:
I have read the bible through at least 5 times, and plan to do so many more. Here is a link to "physical" differences between bible versions: http://www.jimpettis.com/bibles/chart.htm

I also recommend reading a scholarly study bible the 2nd time around. Read *all* the footnotes and book introductions. My favorite: New Jerusalem Bible, Regular Edition (see why here http://www.jimpettis.com/bibles/njb.htm ). Also worthy is the Oxford Annotated Bible, Augmented Third Edition - inferior version (NRSV), but study notes at least equal to the NJB.

System: if you read the bible slowly and carefully for 1 *whole* hour *every* day, you will finish a "standard" bible in 3 months, a "complete" (all books) bible in less than 4, and a scholarly study bible in less than 6. If you think about it, you can read several versions of the bible in just a few years.

I hope this helps.

Jim, http://www.jimpettis.com/wheel/

Answer 2

Reading the Bible from beginning to end could be daunting, perhaps confusing. I would suggest doing a topical study, starting with the basics.

The Bible give a list of six "elementary principles of Christ" in Hebrews 6:1-2. This is a very logical place to start. I enumerated the list in the text for clarity.

Hebrews 6:1-2 Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection, not laying again the foundation of (1) repentance from dead works and of (2) faith toward God, of (3) the doctrine of baptisms, of (4) laying on of hands, of (5) resurrection of the dead, and of (6) eternal judgment.

Answer 3

I enjoyed reading the Bible straight through from beginning to end. Before I did, I read by subject or topic but when I read straight through, it was different. It seemed to flow and I found myself looking forward to my quiet time so I could sit down and pick up where I left off!

To me "study" implies that there is a certain subject or topic to focus on. But if you are reading for enjoyment, I would say start at the beginning and read straight through. It's good reading - for more reasons than one!....Blessings!

Answer 4

Since you've already read it through a few times, maybe now is a good time to go through topically. Get into the concordance and find out everything the Word says about a particular topic, asking the Holy Spirit to bring you fresh revelation each time you open the Book. God bless your journey.

Answer 5

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Answer 6

That's great!

It depends on your personal learning style. You could get a "read the Bible in a year" bible, or read beginning to end, or do a thematic study, as you said.

Any way is good. Way to go!

Answer 7

Maybe this time you might want to use a topical index and study some particular things in depth. I know what you mean about learning more on your own. We are supposed to study to show ourselves approved, not listen to someone else tell it.

Answer 8

I am doing an intense bible study right now..... and the guy has a study on line, you can print out his work.... I may not agree with all he says, but I do with most..... If you feel it could be right for you please contact me and I will forward the info to you........ go in peace...... God bless

Answer 9

holy spirit
words of Jesus
Jesus risen
no condemnation
He that is of God can not sin
inheriting by faith promises of God not by law
That's the First six.

Answer 10

Sunday school's best because they'll lead you along