Christianity Oasis Forum

[cimi]

********************HOW TO STUDY THE BIBLE*******************

One excellent way to study the Bible is called the induc-
tive method. The strategy is: (1) observation, (2) interpre-
tation, and (3) application, in that order.

STEP #1__OBSERVATION: What does the context
say? Collect as many facts as possible about the context.
Don't take anything for granted. Ask questions: Who?
What? Where? When? How? What logic indicators can
be marked in words such as therefore, then, and, also,
but, however, or nevertheless? What recurring words
indicate a main idea? What elements, arguments, or
illustrations does the author use?

STEP #2__INTERPRETATION: What does the text
mean? Only then do we ask, "What does the author
mean by these words as they relate to the words that
precede and follow? What was his intent?" Observe the
context. A word is best understood in the way the author
used it. Now the Scriptures come alive with the pulse
and throb of the author's own heart and intent.

STEP #3__APPLICATION: What does this text mean
to my life? Only after discovering the meaning of a text
in its own time and place should the student ask, "What
does this mean to me?" Distinguish between cultural
facts and timeless principles. Focus on the main idea.
What are the primary issues of the heart? What does this
say about my relationship to God? As we answer these
questions, the Bible explodes with significance.
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Adapted from How Can I Understand The Bible? RBC Ministries.