How to Study the Bible- Notes from the youth conference breakout session I just did.

Edification of a Nation: Modified IBS- How to Study the Bible

A.     Our Foundation-  Biblical worldview.

B.     Preparation!- Understand this is a spiritual battle so prayer and praise start us off (Ps. 100:4)

C.     Observation (read)

a.       Read multiple times

b.      What does text say

                                                     i.     First impressions

                                                   ii.     Record who, what, when, where and how

                                                  iii.     retell logical events out in your head. What does the author see, think, feel. 

D.     Interpretation (think):

a.       Go with the “natural” meaning first.

b.      Context *

                                                     i.     Historical/Cultural-

                                                   ii.     Literal – Understanding the Genre (poetry, narrative, etc). 

c.       Scripture interprets Scripture-

E.      Interaction- Read relationally.

a.       What are the Key words/Thoughts

b.      What is the authors intent?

F.      Application (Live)! 

a.       Examination-

b.      Memorization-

c.       Pray Scripture-

d.      Respond in Obedience by faith

G.     Realization (Putting into practice)

a.       Repentance-

b.      Regular Reading -

c.       Don’t be legalistic.  Grace based!

d.      Journal 

e.      Accountability-

f.        Location- Find a quiet spot

g.      NT Takes precedence-

h.      Interpret your experience by scripture not the scriptures by your experience. 

i.        Drink from the Well, not from the streams that flow from the Well.