Bible Study Principles and Methods

Jul 18, 2024

Bible Study Principles and Methods

Quoting Daughter Dede

  • "The Bible can never say what it's never said and it can never mean what it's never meant."
  • Avoid using the Bible to prove personal points (Isagesis) instead aim for exegesis - deriving knowledge from scripture.

Importance of Proper Bible Study

  • 1 Timothy encourages studying to be approved, rightly dividing the word of truth.
  • Avoid studying the Bible with an agenda.
  • Random 'open and read' methods not effective.
  • Most believers get their Bible knowledge from others rather than personal study.
  • Aim to inspire others to study scripture for themselves.

Personal Journey

  • Came to Christ at 16, initially reluctant to read. Prefers King James Version (KJV).
  • All translation is commentary: original languages have no modern equivalent in some terms.

Steps to Effective Bible Study

1. Read the Bible

  • Familiarity with stories, characters (e.g., Abraham vs. Absalom, Solomon vs. Simon).
  • The Bible is a collection of 66 books spanning 4000 years, telling a cohesive story.
  • Inspired by God through human authors.

2. Memorize Bible Verses

  • Memorize categorically (e.g., verses on prayer, success).
  • Examples:
    • Prayer: Jeremiah 33:3
    • Success: Psalms 1:1-3, Joshua 1:8, Isaiah 55:10-12

3. Study the Bible

Tools and Methods

  • Historical tool: Strong's Exhaustive Concordance
    • Time-consuming but detailed.
    • Modern alternative: Bible software (e.g., Strong's KJV app) simplifies word studies.
  • Example: Ephesians 5:16 - understanding "redeem" as "buying back time" and "evil" as "hard, painful days."
  • Importance of understanding original meanings.
  • Modern tools make it easier to deeply study scriptures.

Approach to Studying a Book of the Bible

  • Example: Book of James
  • Read chapters backward and forward for familiarity.
  • Use commentaries and guides to understand context and characters (e.g., James, half-brother of Jesus).
  • Focus on primary identity as a servant of God before any other titles or affiliations.
  • Identify and align life with principles, promises, patterns, precepts, practices, and prophecies.

Principles for Life

  • The Bible aids in predicting outcomes via principles (e.g., "what goes up must come down"), promises (conditional and unconditional), patterns (intention, disruption, inspiration), and other elements.
  • Apply principles consistently for a blessed, prosperous life in all aspects.

Resources and Recommendations

  • Strong's KJV app
  • Reece Chronological Bible for studying in chronological order.
  • Treasury of Scripture Knowledge for cross-referencing.
  • Comprehensive study guides and commentaries.
  • Recommended videos: "God’s Original Design for Wealth," "Why Evil People Are Rich," and "Why A Rich Man Can’t Enter Into Heaven."

Conclusion

  • Studying the Bible transforms understanding and living.
  • Encourage personal study for deeper insights and applications.
  • Additional videos and resources available for further study insights.

Stay blessed by the best! ✌️

Important Verses to Memorize

Prayer

  • Jeremiah 33:3: Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.
  • Model Prayer: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

Success

  • Psalms 1:1-3: Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly.
  • Joshua 1:8: This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth.
  • Isaiah 55:10-12: As the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither.

Study Tips

  • Understand the Bible was written in different languages with sometimes no modern equivalent.
  • Use modern tools like Bible apps for more efficient studies.
  • Apply the concept of redemption: buy back time and improve opportunity.

Real-life Application

  • Example: Counting it all joy during trials by knowing they develop patience and perseverance.
  • Recognize and avoid skepticism when modern phrases diverge from scriptural teachings.

Note on Memorization

  • Memorizing scripture provides easy reference and aligns daily actions with biblical wisdom.
  • Memorize content both categorically and contextually.

Inspirational Quotes

  • "The Bible never says what is never said; it never means what it is never meant."
  • Apply the last thing scripture taught you before moving to new insights.
  • Being a servant of God is the primary identity, transcending all worldly affiliations and titles.
  • God’s word is the ultimate guidebook for living abundantly and blessedly.
  • "Disruption always follows intention." Identifying patterns in the Bible helps navigate life’s journey accurately.

Stay blessed by the best, peace out Cub Scouts!

Final Thoughts

  • The consistent study and application of biblical principles fortify faith and foster spiritual growth.
  • Daily engagement with the scripture transforms understanding and practice of faith.
  • Commitment to becoming a lifelong student of the Bible promises profound ways to navigate life’s complexities with divine wisdom and assurance.

Peace out Cub Scouts! 🤟🏽

Recommended Reading and Tools:

  • Reese Chronological Bible: For a chronological approach to scripture.
  • Strong's Exhaustive Concordance: Classic and digital versions for in-depth study.
  • Complete Jewish Bible: Understanding faith from a Hebrew perspective.
  • Treasury of Scripture Knowledge: In-depth cross-referencing for comprehensive study.
  • The Bible on Specific Concepts: Books like "Thou Shall Prosper" for integrating biblical principles into business and life.

Helpful Videos:

  1. God’s Original Design for Wealth
  2. Why Evil People Are Rich
  3. Why A Rich Man Can’t Enter Into Heaven

Stay blessed and inspired! 💫

Peace out, Cub Scouts! 🤟🏽

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