1. Bible Study Methods How to Understand God’s Purposes in God’s Word

2. Why Study the Bible  What Scripture Says About Itself — Scripture is the means of God’s specific revelation to man Scripture is the very Word of God, written through the agency of men Scripture is without any error Scripture has all the authority of God Scripture is made understandable through the power of the Holy Spirit

3. Why Study the Bible  What Scripture Says About the Value of Studying and Knowing It — Bible study is essential to spiritual growth Bible study is essential to spiritual maturity Bible study is essential to spiritual effectiveness

4. “Remember, it is not hasty reading, but serious meditating upon holy and heavenly truths, that make them prove sweet and profitable to the soul.” Thomas Brooks, Precious Remedies Against Satan’s Devices.

7. An Overview of the Process  Prepare to study Spiritual preparation Background preparation Biblical Introduction Hermeneutics

8. An Overview of the Process  Prepare to study  Observation — what do I see? Read, read, read Ask questions Pay attention Write Identification Examination

9. An Overview of the Process  Prepare to study  Observation — what do I see?  Interpretation — what does it mean? Begin answering questions Consultation Harmonization Evaluation

10. An Overview of the Process  Prepare to study  Observation — what do I see?  Interpretation — what does it mean?  Application — how does it work? How does it work for me? How does it work for others?

11. Questions to Ask As You Observe Scripture  Who is the author of the passage?  Whom is the author addressing?  What is the most important term or concept in the passage?  What are the main verbs? What are their tenses?  Are there any transitional words in the passage?  What terms do you not understand that need clarification?  Are there people or places you need to identify?  Are there any cause–effect relationships?  Are there any themes in the passage that warrant further study?  Is anything specifically being revealed about the character of God in the passage?

12. Let’s Start Observing ! ! ! Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or remain absent, I will hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;