Pattern of Bible Study

A. Approaches to Bible Study

1. We can either study the Bible looking for
   • An answer to a specific question, or
   • The understanding of a topic (friendship)
2. We can study a particular passage of scripture in order to draw meaning from it (Psalm 1)

B. In the topical study

1. We jot down our question(s)
2. Note key words from our question that may be in the Bible (ex. – friend, loyalty, brotherly love, etc.)
3. Look up the key words in a Bible concordance – find scripture references 
4. Look up the meanings of words in Hebrew or Greek to better understand their use in specific scriptures
5. We read scripture references to learn what is said – in as many Scriptures as possible
6. Summarize what we learn
7. Define action to take
   • Write a prayer committing oneself to the truth received, or 
   • Write one or more actions to apply the truth learned
   • Write additional questions the study has raised to you

C. In the inductive study

1. We select a passage of Scripture we want to know more about
2. Observe what the passage says
3. Interpret what the passage is saying
4. Apply what the passage has said (to you)

D. Memorization is a way to

1. Study a verse or passage in depth
2. To retain the scripture for later use by the Spirit in guidance or meditation

E. Meditation is a way to

1. Deepen our understanding of God’s Word
2. Strengthen ourselves in His life
3. Release wisdom for His Word to our lives

Methods of Personal Bible Study

A. Four stages of Word Study

1. Worship
2. Bible Study
3. Memorization
4. Meditation

B. Why study the Word

1. It is the most valuable thing in our world
   • Prov. 8:10-11
   • Prov. 7:1
2. God desires His truth in our hearts (Spiritual understanding)
   • Matt. 12:34-35
   • Ps. 51:6
3. Revelation is an inspiring aspect of knowing God
   • Revelation is God releasing His truth to us in a personal, fresh, life-giving way
   • Revelation is a release of truth from within our spirit to our mind
     • Christ, the Living Word, is resident within our spirit through the Presence of His Holy Spirit
     • As we study (think on) His Word as found in the Scriptures, His spirit releases insight from the Living Word, Jesus, within us. As the two meet there is the excitement of discovery, of revelation.

C. Worship keeps us in tune with Him

1. It helps us to honor Him in His rightful place
2. It helps us to hear Him as we study
3. Include
   • Praise
   • Cleansing through forgiveness
   • Thanksgiving for the Word He has given us
   • Intent to act according to what He says
4. Worship
   • As you begin
   • When you receive an insight
   • As you conclude