A Simple Three-Step Method For Bible Study
One of the main mistakes Bible teachers make is teaching for application before observation and interpretation.
By teaching for application, they take a verse from its context and miss helping others comprehend the original meaning and application of the verse or verses.
That is why it is important to follow this three step method for Bible study:
Observation - Who wrote the book or verse(s)? What is the context? When was it written? To whom was it written? Who is the speaker in the verses? Who is the original readers or listeners? What covenant/testament is it under, old or new, law or grace? Is it prophecy for Israel or is it for the body of Christ?
NOTE: The Old Testament was the Law of Moses that was in place until Jesus died on the cross. The New Testament is the grace of Jesus went into effect after he died on the cross. Most of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John occur during the time of the old testament of law and involves the nation of Israel.
Interpretation - Why was it written or spoken? What did it mean when it was originally written or spoken? What was the writer’s or speaker’s intent? How did the original listener or reader understand it? Does the Bible have more to say about this subject in other parts? Has the imagery being used already been used in other parts of the Bible? How does the imagery in the other parts of the Bible help us understand the part being read? How does the verse, chapter, and book fit into the context and the complete biblical narrative? Does the translation being used insert words into the verse or mistranslate a word (use Bible Hub to study to see the original manuscripts).
A helpful study guide: In certain periods of time in the Bible only certain foods could be eaten by certain people. Eventually, however, all foods could be eaten. There were different food requirements for Adam, Noah, and Moses. Yet, with Peter, all foods could be eaten (Acts 10).
Additionally, under the law and before the cross, forgiveness was conditional. Daniel, Nehemiah, David and others under the law of Moses begged God for forgiveness.
Under the grace and after the cross, forgiveness is complete in Christ. The law is from Exodus 24 through the cross of Jesus, when his blood was shed to establish the new covenant of grace. Today we live under the new testament of grace where we receive forgiveness by through faith in Jesus and we are not under the dietary law of Adam, Noah, or Moses. Like Peter, we are free to eat any food.
Just as with food and forgiveness, not all parts of the Bible are for us. It is important to do observation and interpretation so that we know what is and is not for us.
CLICK HERE to learn more about forgiveness under the new testament of grace.
Application - Does it apply to us living in the age of grace? If so, how does it apply? Is there a current truth or principle or universal truth or principle that applies to our lives?
Even though this is a simple method for Bible study, it is often a time consuming process, requiring hours of study to comprehend its meaning and to accurately communicate it to those listening.
To listen to Brad teach through the books of the Bible as he follows this three-step Bible study method, check out his Podcast (available on most podcast platforms). - Gracereach with Brad Robertson
