For some people the task of reading Scripture seems daunting. Here is a Bible study method, provided not as a means to interpret Scripture, but merely a tool to help people learn to read Scripture for themselves. Begin by praying for the Lord to reveal Himself through His Word by His Spirit. Then continue working prayerfully through these four steps:
1. Context
The word context means “with-the-text.” First read through the passage and find what details are given right in the text itself: names, places, verbs, cultural symbols, etc. Let the text guide the meaning instead of using your own opinions.
2. Summary
Read the passage again noticing how the details are related to one another and to the whole of scripture. Do the details complement or contrast? Can you identify how the details relate together as a story, passage and with the whole Bible?
3. Theology
Theology means “God-study” and refers to how God wishes to be known. He’s given scripture to tell us about Himself. How does God reveal Himself in the passage? Seeing how God reveals Himself is always the most important part of reading the Bible!
4. Anthropology
Scripture knows us better than we know ourselves and serves as a mirror to study the hearts of humanity. How does the passage reveal humanity or yourself? Always do this step after Theology.
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