(Ezekiel 33:31), Hearing and not heeding the word is as foolish as cooking an expensive filet mignon and then not sitting down to eat it! It's an emotion variously combining dread, veneration, and wonder inspired here by the absolute authority of the Words of God compared to all words of men. In a very real sense we are giving our brain a bath; we are washing it in the purifying solution of Gods Word (cp Ep 5:26-note). These divisions are incredibly convenient. And this is eternal life, that they may know Thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom Thou hast sent. Believe it to be safe MacArthur, J.: The MacArthur Study Bible Nashville: Word, MacDonald, W & Farstad, A. Believer's Bible Commentary: Thomas Nelson, Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth by Spurgeon. Live in another country building relationships and ministries with eternal impact. If a servant were to hear but not do, how quickly the judgment would be given. +
), A T Pierson said that "While other books inform, and some few reform, this one book transforms. %%EOF
is the result of These divisions are tools that help us read Scripture; theyre not an actual part of it. And its in this phase we start to look at what the text means. The whole Bible tells the story of how God, in his grace and mercy, comes to the rescue of rebellious people living in a broken world. One of the pastors startled the group with the declaration that "My grandmother's translation is the best I've ever read." and the Scriptures to yourself. These might include Bible dictionaries, atlases, concordances and handbooks. ::c\}oa\l#N/4!tGj;Mu}8Mmm3M^x_M=>l~m8n6vTk7.9Rm+s7mm1>7%cS,"W`!K[43!qCn66JVo[K^nE^ + (Ps 119:161). Reaching students and faculty in middle and high school. Not only do the books come from unfamiliar cultures, but theyre also thousands of years old. Neither are you to be "Bible botanists" (even good inductive students), who laboriously observe the Biblical text and derive accurate interpretation but fail to apply these truths. Next, youll want to figure out what youre going to study. But is blessed if we trust and obey. To which his colleagues exclaimed "What! The New Testament gives us further teaching about the way of approach, and makes new demands on our spiritual life, whilst offering us a new standard to live up to. There should never be a time when we go to the Scriptures without allowing them to change our lives for the better. To go on gaining an intellectual knowledge of the Bible without obeying it can be a trap instead of a blessing. If there is a command to be obeyed, we obey it. Are for them who will trust and obey. Then you could go back and look at how the other Gospels start: Matthew begins by giving us Jesus genealogy and then gives us a little glimpse into His birth. It can provide details and facts that you do not yet have the capacity or training to pick up on your own. tie. A Primer on the Lost Art of Biblical Meditation two roads diverged in a wood, and I -- Life Application: What joy is experienced when deliberate Bible study moves from a 'have to' to a 'want to!' (Ro 10:17+). Do you need to devote yourself to unselfish religious deeds? Hebrews (Col 1:28, 29-See notes Col 1:28; 1:29), The basis for application is 2 Timothy 3:16. Luke One practical approach to Bible study is a four-part process of observation, interpretation, connection, and application. We must meditate upon it. Inductive Bible Study: Observation, Interpretation, and Application Gather them. OIA Method of Bible Study - Iamnorthside Inductive Bible Study - Observation Inductive Bible Study - Interpretation Inductive Bible Study - Application Simple Study on the Power of God's Word Authority of God's Word - study on 2Timothy 3:16-17 Ezra 7:10 - Exposition of the "Ezra 7:10 Principle" Job's "Secret" of perseverance? Bible study is meant not merely to inform but to transform and renew our mind. Its easy to become reliant upon commentary to explain the text to you, and this circumvents many of the benefits of study. Study the Bible to be wise (How to Study the Bible and Enjoy It - see page 30). (John Calvin), Gods Word can only produce growth in soil "fertilized" by obedience. 1. The world will learn better, and will more likely be brought to know Christ when the lives of Christians are better, and when the Bible of the Christian Life shall be more in, accordance with the Bible of Christian doctrine. In a very real sense we are giving our brain a bath; we are washing it in the purifying solution of Gods Word. Explore resources to help you live out your life and relationships in a way that honors God. Not just for information (How to study the English Bible), SPACE PETS hb```vV^af`B@#g|3h It is thework of applying something (I like that -- it make take a little "holy sweat" to apply what we have learned, but it is worth the effort exerted! Before the Word of God can bring change to our world, it must first change our life. 2 Peter And what thou teachest well, thou canst not too well live. If you do not this, you are reading to your own condemnation. You might see the word Messiah and think, I know what that means. But that can undermine your ability to discover new things. If you want to study Scripture, youll need to carve out intentional time for it. The OIA Bible study method consists of three parts. The road prepared and paved by careful observation, proper interpretation and diligent application of the Scripture or the one wrought by a superficial, inaccurate, irreverent approach? %PDF-1.4
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After a few weeks, the detective was able to report to the man that Dr. Houghtons life matched his preaching. Therefore, it is vital that you develop observation skills which might, at first, seem difficult, laborious, and time-consuming. 7 Principles for Teaching Kids to Interpret the Bible Learn how you can know God personally. Look for the plainest interpretation first. Your Teacher, the Holy Spirit, can give you insights at any point in your study, so that you need to be sensitive to His leading. If you skip this step, you will never enjoy your Bible study and the Bible will never change your life. (Ro 12:2-note). This volume incorporates insights from contemporary evangelical hermeneutics into an approachable, step-by-step process moving from observation through interpretation and on to the application of God's Word. While there is only one valid interpretation of a passage, there can be many applications. Using a trusted commentary can help in a few ways: It can help show you the details you missed in the observation phase. These four steps help you to orient yourself to a passage, wrestle with what its trying to communicate and examine your life in light of Gods Word. You might discover that salt was not only used to flavor food, but it helped keep it from spoiling. We must get into the Word of God for ourselves. If the Bible seems dry and unexciting, check your attitude (Ed: Also do some personal inventory with 1 Pe 2:1+and then you'll be able to move on to 1 Pe 2:2+!). So even though you might be familiar with the word Messiah, you might want to focus on Mark and his original audience. This fundamental step must be taken if one desires to accurately interpret and properly apply God's Word. Philemon Here are a few questions to facilitate application of the truth you have observed How does this truth apply to my life in four spheres in my(a) personal life (b) my family (c) work (d) church (e) neighborhood? Pray God to help you to feel the solemnity even of the threatening, for if you feel deeply the threatening now, you may be delivered from the tragic fulfilment of it by-and-by. Application is where the proverbial "rubber meets the road", where our walk either does or does not back up our talk and where head knowledge becomes heart knowledge. ", Oswald Chambers in his typical "no nonsense" style reminds us that"One step forward in obedience is worth years of study about it", We have to be careful not to deceive ourselves. Lesson 12: Observation | Bible.org Application takes place as you are confronted with the truth and you respond to that truth in obedience (in faith). Why did Mark feel this title was necessary on top of calling Jesus the Messiah? Are we truly born of God and spiritually alive or are we deceiving ourselves and spiritually dead, no matter how orthodox our profession of faith might appear? If youre not careful, theyll do all the work of observation and interpretation for you. Here are a few questions you can ask: There are a few essential rules to remember when attempting to interpret a passage: Make sure you spend a good chunk of time with this phase. The third thing I noticed was a bee, just a little bee. He knoweth what we have need of before we ask, but He expects us to ask all the same. Until all on the altar we lay; Careless Observation Commentaries are fantastic tools. It isn't enough just to be a Christian, if you aren't an obedient one. 2023 BGEA But for your study time, its helpful to use them as secondary sources after youve done some preliminary work. We try to communicate what weve never experienced in our own lives.". We must mix faith with what we read and hear. Practice it to be holy. We need to be honest with ourselves at this point. What is the cultural and/or historical context of this passage? It would touch as many lovely blossoms as it could, but derived absolutely no benefit from it. This is a dishonest way to interpret the text. It will walk you through each step of inductive bible studies in details. One of the best things about studying Gods Word is that you can come back to a book youve already studied in the past and discover all-new insights. As for the doctrines, recollect that a doctrine killeth except as it is personally grasped and as you feel your interest in it. In Gods mind, knowledge without obedience is sin. Why are we deluded in this way? During the week he earnestly tried to apply them to his life. David Shepherd rightly exhorts us to leave out not "step" in study of God's Word but to be diligent to Read it to get the facts, study it to get the meaning, meditate on it to get the benefit. Used by cults. The more work you do during this part of your study, the better you will do in the rest. Now, think about what the passage tells us that is always true not just in its original setting, but in any time and place. As questions arise, they give you direction for further reading and study as you seek to answer those questions. When you begin to study a passage, your first step will be observing the text. Now you know the three simple steps to running your own inductive Bible study. If there is a warning to be followed, we heed it. S Is there a Sin to avoid, forsake or confess? Application begins with belief Give Me Liberty! You may study it your whole life, and you will never be able to absorb all that it has to teach. When you become a Christian, you enter into an exciting, lifelong relationship with the Bible. Think of it as an appointment that you do not want to miss. Every promise must be grasped and realized as true : every precept must be registered in the heart, and acted out in the life, in the strength of God. 3. The main tool for each step is the Bible itself, meaning that when there is a question in my mind as to a passage's meaning, I first look to other scripture to provide the answer. Yes, the Scripture (through your Teacher the Spirit) will bestow spiritual blessings, not by knowing but by doing! What does the term Messiah mean? Keeping some form of journal will allow you to go back and review what God has been teaching you. The Bible is an inexhaustible mine of precious gems. When it comes to reading the Bible, these boundaries can hinder your ability to observe what biblical authors are saying. The Bible is the best prayer-book in the world, as it has been called the best story-book in the world. Do not read it merely to say, Yes, it is true; very true; I believe its doctrines to be the revelation of the infallible mind of God himself. But endeavour also in reading a page of the Scriptures, always to see how much it belongs to you. 2 Thessalonians my heart stands in awe of Thy words. Reading and studying the Bible are two different practices. The first verse of Mark youve been studying does not have immediate actionable teachings, but you still need to be open to the Holy Spirit moving as you study. In truth thou canst not read the Scriptures too much; We will not fully comprehend the extent of the "return on our investment" until we enter Paradise and stand before our Lord at His bema (judgment) seat. This can train you to be more of an explorer in the future. Use this guide to help you lead your small group to encounter Jesus through the three main parts of an inductive Bible study: Observation, Interpretation, Application. We all have a story. The records of human need and Divine generosity are not far-fetched ; they answer to our own case. The Bible is a unique collection of sixty-six books written by men under the direction and influence of the Holy Spirit (2 Pet. --C H Spurgeon, Choose Book of Bible to Study Mark says hes starting at the beginning. Bible study is meant not merely to inform but to transform and renew our mind. If you feel the wrath to come now, you may never have to feel it in the next world. A Is there an Attitude to change or guard against or an Action I need to take? When Dr. Houghton became pastor of the Baptist Tabernacle in Atlanta, a man in that city hired a private detective to follow Dr. Houghton and report on his conduct. This means youre going to start by reading the whole thing hopefully in one sitting before you begin to deal with smaller portions of it in greater depth. This volume incorporates insights from contemporary evangelical hermeneutics into an. Have some fun taking various quizzes and assessments to learn about yourself and others. Often, its helpful to put chapter and verse breakdowns out of your mind as you dive into Scripture. Read Online Inductive Bible Study Observation Interpretation And Sources like these can give you vital information to help answer your questions. (Basic Bible Interpretation). Bible study is intentionally digging into a passage of Scripture and using various interpretive techniques to understand what the author is saying. Mark We must meditate upon it. Inductive Bible Study: A Step-by-Step Guide - Bible Study Tips One of the best ways to study the Bible is through "inductive" study. What we believe about the gospel and our call to serve every nation. Kay Arthur on Inductive Bible Study: Observation, Interpretation & Application,Christy Tennant - Read more about spiritual life growth, Christian living, and faith. Saturate the study of Scripture with prayer. The observation phase was all about observing what the text says, but the interpretation phase is the next step. By )R z9=_)\_`w0s3^xT{bhi ?%\hMKINZ>0!L ik0%kjDb
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pA!~~?\sDNSUke For some of you there is very little in the Word of God except threatening. Different Approaches to Interpretation 1. Commentaries can be incredibly useful and powerful tools, but be wise about how you incorporate them into your study. Toll Free: 1-877-247-2426. Once we know what a passage means we are responsible to live it out. What was the result in his life and by way of application what will be the result in our life if we emulate his example? Inductive Bible Study. Scripture interprets Scripture. For the first question, you might think through your initial reading of Mark. HhT=k&^-l
(6WBbN~WPe4`!Mr`+^p!MO,LP/_n]aFBcp) ", James warned that "to one who knows the right thing to do, and does not do it, to him it is sin." Who may go up to his holy dwelling place?" ( Ps 24:1-3 ). In the third chapter, Matthew tells us about Jesus baptism by John. And what thou understandest well, thou canst not too well teach; 2. So if youre studying Mark, start by reading the entire book. Also we become more responsible to God. The following steps follow the inductive method's process of observation, interpretation, and application. Men may have in their study of the Scriptures other ends also, as the profit and edification of others. Inductive Bible Study method is one of the most effective bible study methods for personal bible study, quiet time or small group bible studies. In short, as John MacArthur says "Bible study is not complete until we ask ourselves, What does this mean for my life and how can I practically apply it?, We must take the knowledge we have gained from our reading and interpretation and draw out the practical principles that apply to our personal lives. Privacy 8. Every precept in Scripture may be turned into prayer, and every promise into praise. (The blessing of God is integrally related to your response to the revelation of God. How we seek to journey together with everyone towards a relationship with Jesus. I have known some rejoice greatly in the doctrine of election who never were elected, and some who were very pleased with the doctrine of justification by faith, but who had no faith by which to be justified. The Power of Accurate Observation In Bible Study By Anna Wishart 07/31/2017 Details Bring Meaning God's Word has a lot to communicate. We build up a reservoir of responses so that whenever the truth gets too convicting, weve got a multiplicity of reasons why it applies to everyone else but us! (Josh 1:8-note). Are the "thoughts and intentions of our heart" spiritual thoughts and intentions or only natural thoughts and intentions? You too can try and prove God's wonder-working precious and magnificent promises that provide everything needed for life and godliness -- but only if you seek to apply them to your life. William MacDonald explains meditation as follows Christians should meditate on the Word of God (chew the cud) and have a separated walk (the cloven hoof). yUew.7.J~rr9xn-j3Pv_Kp>.ow?oo^>]xgOqI| JSM.OQF=r%0'c[',(d2`\gNHbqsO&&#v>b[Wg7xr|*M R Notice how Jesus observes the Old Testament text in verse 42, interprets it in verse 44, and applies it in verse 43 (implying that his listeners should believe the truth and make some changes in their lives). Were so used to being exposed to chapters and verses that we lose sight of an authors intention for the whole book. How foolish to look in the mirror of God's word, see spiritual "dirt" and yet fail to respond). This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night (this is the parallel of observation and interpretation), so that you may be careful to do (the application) according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous and then you will have success (the blessing of proper application). To love Him and obey. Inductive Bible Study: Observation, Interpretation, and Application through the Lenses of History, Literature, and Theology (9781433684142) by Richard Alan Fuhr Jr., Andreas J. Kostenberger Start with the obvious. 0000001036 00000 n
This video series demonstrates how to perform inductive Bible study using the Logos Bible app thats free for web, mobile, or desktop. Too much Bible study begins and ends in the wrong placewith interpretation. Helping students know Jesus, grow in their faith and go to the world to tell others. This seems to be the kickoff point of Jesus ministry. PDF Precept Bible Study Method It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot (NIV). The ideal combination is to read the word and then heed it expeditiously and implicitly. You can help us reach children and their families to know Jesus. Somewhere ages and ages hence: ((this mirror = Gods Word = unique for it shows our inner nature as a regular mirror shows our exterior. trailer
", The goal of Inductive Bible study is Observation involves reading the text to make simple statements that are true . A pericope is a section of the text that forms a complete thought. After personal application, the best way to make the truth your own, is to teach it and even if you are not gifted to be a formal Bible teacher, there is always someone in your sphere of influence whom you are teaching by your life and your lips. We need to be specific here. As you carry out your inductive Bible study you will find that observation, interpretation, and application often occur simultaneously. And that has made all the difference. Malachi 10 Questions the Internet Is Asking about the KJV. (1Ti 4:7, 8-notes), The dictionary defines application as the act of putting to use or putting into operation especially for some practical purpose. Feed on them with joy" Observation Thresh them by meditation. Do not be afraid to ask hard or silly questions. startxref
First, I saw a butterfly. Though he draw them they will not come to him, and when he calls them they will give him no answer. Words repeated multiple times in a passage, Words that indicate a change in topic or time, Words that contrast one thing against another. Your grandmother translated the Bible?" They were the local authorities. 2. In sum, acting on what God has said assumes that you understand what He has said as illustrated below. (MacDonald, W & Farstad, A. Believer's Bible Commentary: Thomas Nelson). In fact, Logos even has an Inductive Bible Study Workflow built right in to guide you through these steps. Step 3: ApplicationWhat will I do about what the passage says and means? Trust and obey, for theres no other way The effect of this piercing is to reveal whether there is spirit or not. Inductive Bible study students should strive to be men and women like Ezra whose pattern was to teach the truth that he had put into practice. J A Bengel wisely admonished "Apply yourself to the whole text, and apply the whole text to yourself.". endstream
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which then results in being and doing. Remember that the more time spent in observation, the less time you will spend in interpretation, the more accurate the interpretation and the more appropriate the application. If you skip this step, you will never enjoy your Bible study and the Bible will never change your life. The first step in studying a passage is to observe what it actually says. If there is a promise to be embraced, we claim it. Verse by Verse Ministry Sow a character, reap a destiny! 1 Timothy Inductive Bible Study is an ideal textbook for courses in biblical interpretation, and for anyone who desires to better understand and teach Scripture. Permissions So before moving on to the crucial step of application, pause for a time of reflection. (John 7:17). Allow the Bible to help you understand other passages of the Bible. You should desire to know Gods Word better so it can change you. The religionists of Jesus' day had all of the data. Christian author Jerry Bridges reminds us that. Memorization is the first step to meditation. You can find the Inductive Bible Study Workflow (with five other Workflows and many other Bible Study tools) inLogos Starter. Click To Tweet Inductive Bible Study This book walks through each of the three steps of the inductive method paying particular attention to historical, literary, and theological elements that come into play at each stage.