Inductive Bible Study Methods - Part 2

This is a continuation from yesterday’s blog about a reoccurring question I get asked...
How do you study the Bible?

Ask:

What is the “big idea” of the passage—or what’s the theme?

Consider the commands, the repeated words and ideas. Often there will be one command in the passage with several motivations. So, in one phrase, sum up the main thought of the passage.

Next, ask the natural question that arises from the “big idea” or themes.

This will usually be “how,” “why,” or “what.”

Now, answer the question(s) you have raised from the passage.
Steps to interpreting the passage. Use as many of the following questions as you need, progressing downward.

1. What are the meanings of the words?
2. What does the immediate context suggest?
3. What does the broader context suggest?
4. What do cross-references suggest?
5. What is the cultural meaning?

(That is, What did it mean to those to whom it was originally addressed?)
6. What do commentaries suggest?

Put your answers in the form of an outline. Your answers form principles of life and ministry. A principle is a timeless lesson in the way God works, how you should live or in thinking God’s way. To develop each principle (each point in your outline), you will want to explain it (interpretation), illustrate it (from the Bible or personal examples of how this principle is worked out), and apply it.

Thanks to: the GodSquad (www.godsquad.com)
© 2000 Campus Crusade for Christ, Inc.