From the article: How to Study the Bible
One of my favorite things to do is study the Scriptures, but this wasn't always so. At first, studying the Bible seemed too complicated. I was easily distracted. I had to learn how to uncover the nuggets of truth found in the Bible and apply them to my life through an effective Bible study method. Now that I've learned a couple of different techniques that work well for me, I love to study God's Word.
I'm certain that many of you have discovered some excellent Bible study methods, too. Take this opportunity to share with other believers what you consider to be the best Bible study methods.
My Best Bible Study Method
- I find it best to read the Bible as it's written. While our English Bibles are chronologically out of order, the books contained therein are grouped according to type of writing. For instance The OT books of Genesis to Esther are considered books of history. The books of Job to Song of Songs or Song of Solomon are considered to be poetry. Then you have the Major Prophets of Isaiah to Daniel and then the Minor Prophets of Hosea to Malachi. The English New Testament is grouped thusly: The Gospels and Acts are books of history. Then you have Paul's Letters which are Romans to Philemon. Then it's General Letters, Hebrews to Jude. Then Apocalyptic literature with Revelation. The best Bible study method for me is to read it as it's written. If it's history read it as history, if it's poetry read it as poetry, if it's prophecy read it as prophecy. That's what "reading the Bible literally" means. Read it as it's written. Also, let the clear passages interpret the unclear passages
- —Guest Zecryphon
The Best Method
- The best method for me is to read the bible from beginning to end. How? By reading a chapter or two daily. That way you get to understand it better and read everything you have to know.
- —Guest Beibi
Study Bible Plus 1-Year Reading Plan
- My personal favorite method of Bible study is to use a study Bible as I read through the Scriptures daily. In addition, I use a one year chronological Bible reading plan to keep me on track and in God's Word every day. Sometimes I like to slow down and meditate on sections that seem to leap off the page and speak to my situation. Some days nothing significant jumps out, but I continue reading. If a particular passage has me stumped or confused, I will look up those verses in the notes section of the study Bible or in my Bible study program, comparing commentaries to get a better understanding of the meaning and context of the verses. Writing down what I learn is also very helpful.
- —christianity
A Bible Study That Works For Me
- I'm a new Christian and what I like is the 30 Path Study Guide in the back of my Bible (Starting Point Study Bible, NIV, Zondervan), and a journal, and Henrietta Mears "What the Bible is all About" (for another perspective). Every morning I read the guide, the Bible and write in a journal The Scriptures (usually 3), as well as what I’m learning about this topic and my interpretation. It never gets old. I enjoy it very much! Plus on the front page of my journal I keep track of what topic I read on what day, so I can look it up when I need help in an area, I can go back to that day and see what Scriptures I recorded. Which has helped me.
- —Guest Carol
Seeking Truth Or Proving Your Beliefs?
- Many people want quick and easy answers that fit with what they already believe. Every belief group has it's "selected" passages and facts that they "know" prove their beliefs true and all opposing beliefs false. Then they close their eyes and ears to all other beliefs.My suggestion for those in this group is to find a belief group with the beliefs they want, study the materials they use, how they put those things together, and be happy believing what they want. This methodology, though, will never get anyone to the truth. Truth requires doing whatever is necessary to get everything God may have on the issue at hand, figuring out the exact meaning He gave each of the words He used. Even figuring out what He didn't say on a topic is important. All context surrounding each passage is essential, holding to a meaning for each that fits the flow of thought, discussion, argument ...
- —Blazing0
First Things First
- One studies the Bible in vain without the key who alone can "break the seven seals and open the scroll" (Rev. 5: 1-24). Since "Jesus Christ is the key that opens all the hidden treasures of God's wisdom and knowledge" (Col. 2:3), firsthand and personal knowledge of the "key," as prescribed, is a requirement (John 8: 21-28; 19: 30-37).
- —Guest EphremHagos
