1. Welcome to the Encinitas Church of Christ

2. CHRISTIANITY 101 – THE BASICS
“How to Study the Bible”

3. “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” Timothy 2:15 KJV

4. Some Basic Study Principles
Preparation is critical
Set aside enough time that you don’t feel rushed
Find a quiet place where you won’t be bothered or distracted
Have a plan
Have a pen and paper handy for notes and any other Bible study tools you may need

5. Some Basic Study Principles
Helpful tips to keep in mind as you study
Begin with a prayer – James 1:5; 2 Timothy 2:7
Study the Bible as it was written – 2 Timothy 2:15
Read the text several times slowly and meditate on it
Take notes and write down any questions you might have

6. Some Basic Bible Study Tools
There are many Bible study tools available in books
Different Bible versions as well as Study Bibles
Bible dictionaries, concordances, reference books
Books on Bible times, history, culture, language
Word study books, Commentaries, maps . . .

7. Some Basic Bible Study Tools
Perhaps the greatest Bible study tool is the computer
“e-Sword” is an excellent computer program for Bible study
There are many good web sites just for Bible study
Bible study apps for your smart phone
There are many different ways you can use the computer to study the Bible

8. Avoid Misapplication Much harm has been done by misapplication
Distorting the Scriptures – 2 Peter 3:14-16
Proof-texting
Taking verses out of context

9. Avoid Misapplication When in doubt, keep studying!
The more you study, the more you realize how little you know!
Don’t give up just because it seems hard to understand
Keep digging until you figure it out!