Session #5 - Studying Scripture
Introduction
The Bible is a book (more accurately, a small library) unlike any other. At times it is best read slowly and out loud, appreciating each word. At other times, we ought to read it in large portions to encounter its broader story and plotline. We need to linger on a straightforward phrase in some moments, allowing it to seep into our hearts slowly. And at other times, we need to grab a reference Bible and some commentaries, and study it!
Put another way, the Bible is a book to be read with both our hearts and our minds. With the practice of meditation (lectio divina), we engaged the Bible primarily with our hearts. Our goal for this week's practice is to engage the Bible primarily with our minds by learning to study the Bible. But why bother studying the Bible? For followers of Jesus, the answer is simple: Jesus was a student and teacher of the Bible and lived as if the Bible was authoritative. And if that is true, and the Bible is indeed authoritative for us today, then we ought to think carefully about the text and what it means; in other words, we need to study it. Because while the Bible is many things, it is certainly not simple. We must be willing to do the hard work of studying the Bible in its historical, cultural, and literary context to enjoy the richness of meaning to be discovered.
This week we'll explore a few different exercises that can help us learn to, like Jesus, become students of the Scriptures.
What thoughts or emotions do you have when you think about studying the Bible? If you practice studying the Bible regularly, what does it look like for you?
Read these Passages Together and Discuss
2 Timothy 2:14-15, Acts 17:10-12
What do these passages teach us about the importance of studying Scripture?
These passages make it clear that the Bible must be interpreted. How do you feel about interpreting the Bible for yourself? What boundaries can we have to protect ourselves from error in interpreting Scripture?
Acts 8:27-35
What does this interaction between Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch demonstrate about the relationship between studying the Scripture and sharing our faith?
Do you feel prepared to share the good news about Jesus as Philip did, "beginning with the Scripture?" (V. 35) How should this interaction in Acts 8 motivate us in our study of the Bible?
Methods for Studying Scripture
This Week’s Practice:
Before your next meeting, set aside at least two times to personally study the Bible.
Below we have provided a few different methods and resources for studying Scripture. As a community, select a section of Scripture that you will all study. Each person can choose their own study method they would like to try, but make sure everyone studies the same passage At your next meeting, we will have everyone bring their insights and discoveries to discuss what they have learned.
Passages to Study- Gen 15, Psalm 8, Mark 6:30-44, John 15:1-17, Acts 16:11-15, Col 1:15-23
The Inductive Method: This is a simple, investigative way of studying Scripture that will provide a better overall understanding of a passage.
· Observation- This stage is a simple gathering of the facts. (Who, What, When, Where, Why? How?) Are there any quotations or allusions to other biblical passages? What do I notice in the text? Make sure to read multiple translations!
· Interpretation- What does the text mean? This is where we ask questions about the historical and cultural context, the author, and the context of the passage. This is a great time to examine helpful resources for words or verses you don't understand and historical and cultural context.
· Application- How did this passage instruct the original audience? What does this passage mean for us today?
Seven Arrows Method: This is a visual way to work through the different aspects of a passage.
· What does this passage say?
· What did this passage mean to its original audience?
· What does this passage tell us about God?
· What does this passage tell us about man?
· What does this passage demand of me?
· How does this passage change the way I relate to people?
· What does this passage prompt me to pray?
Verse by Verse Analysis Method: For this method, complete these five steps for each verse in your passage.
1. Write out a Personal Paraphrase
2. List Some Questions, Answers, and Observations (Use Resources if needed)
3. Explore Cross-References for Each Verse (Use Reference Bible)
4. Record Insights from Each Verse
5. Write Down a Brief Personal Application for Each Verse (If Applicable)