Studying a Passage of Scripture
We often face the need of
intensively studying a passage of Scripture because we are seeking to
understand a doctrinal issue, respond to false teaching, or just
studying a passage in order to teach it to the congregation (like our
chapter/passage studies). Here are some helpful tips.
Prayer.
Pray before you begin reading the Bible. Prayer during the reading is
also very helpful and after you have finished your reading and study,
pray again. Remember, your prayers are your way of speaking to God from
your heart.
Read.
Read the verses silently and slowly and then read it aloud to your self.
Read it several times as you study.
Notes.
Take notes! Try to look for key items, and record them, as you read the
Scriptures such as:
q
See the
context. Who is
speaking? To whom are they speaking? What historical and cultural
background needs to be understood to have full light on the passage? A
Bible Dictionary, handbook or commentary can be helpful here.
q
Cross
references. Look up
all the cross references given for a passage.
q
Difficult words
and/or phrases. Make
sure you understand the words in English, but it is also important, when
doing deep study of a passage, that you understand the underlying Greek
text. A great variety of helps are available to put anyone in possession
of a good understanding of the Greek. Ask Smith if you need help on this
point.
