Learn a SIMPLE way to study the Bible
I realize that it isn’t easy to study the Bible without a formal group study. Trying to study it by yourself can be frustrating at times. I have tried many different methods.
Here are three:
Precept Ministries (Using lines, squares, triangles – and good thinking skills you can work your way through a passage) – Inductive Bible Study
The 5 Ps of Bible Study – by Priscilla Shirer
An African Bible Study – this is usually done in a group but could be used by yourself.
This week God gave me a new way to study the Bible on my own. I call it SIMPLE, because it really is SIMPLE.
A SIMPLE Bible Study – click to download a PDF version of the SIMPLE Bible Study by Janis Cox
Before I start any passage I will pray for God’s Spirit to guide my study. I always have a journal in which to record my questions, answers and inspirational thoughts.
S – Say the passage aloud. I know that sounds silly but hearing it aloud helps you think clearly about what you are reading.
I – Identify the characters, the setting, the circumstances surrounding this passage. This could take some hunting for some passages. (Use a study Bible or google the passage to find a commentary.)
M- Make a list of the thoughts, questions and ideas that come to you while you read this passage. The questions you have may not be answered today but they will be answered. Believe it.
P – Pray again for God’s guidance. Let the Spirit lead you. Stop for a minute and listen to Him. Ask God to show you how you can apply what you have been studying to your life.
L- Life – How can I apply what I have been studying to my life? This is the time to journal your ideas and thoughts.
E – Exit the passage with a prayer for God to help you remember what you have learned and help you use this knowledge in your daily life.
Praying and studying the Bible go together.
Next week I will take this method, choose a passage and follow it. If you wish to try it I will be using John 3:1-8. See what you come up with. Make a post about it and link to #SundayStillness.
Prayer:
Lord help us all to study Your Word more and more. Help us use the best method for each of us to learn more about You. In Jesus’ name. AMEN.
Tweetables:
Prayer and study of the Bible go together. Learn how. (click to tweet this)
How can I pray and study the Bible? (click to tweet this)
Today is #SundayStillness. Please add your links below. Enjoy reading other posts.
I love Bible study, and this seems like a great, SIMPLE method. Thanks so much for sharing it. I like the idea of reading scripture aloud. I do that myself sometimes.
Love this Janis! I have saved S.I.M.P.L.E. Bible Study guide to share with friends! 🙂 Blessings for a wonderful week!
Thanks, Janis, for these good thoughts on Bible study. May we all study to show ourselves approved unto God, rightly dividing the Word of truth. God bless.
I love your “SIMPLE plan to study God’s word. Also thank you for hosting today!
Very helpful way to look at studying God’s Word 🙂
Love your simple steps to studying God’s Word, Janis.
I haven’t been around much. Spent much of the summer with my daddy and he passed on Sept 14th. Just now getting back into posting some.
I also noticed that we sort of had the same idea for a photo this week 🙂
I like your practical and very wise Bible study advice. I love the inductive study method, Precepts, that you mentioned. I’m going to click on your other links to read about those methods.
I’ve never done a Bible study, and I love how you made it simpler! I may try this 🙂