Okay so I do my devotions like this. I read and then I journal but I cannot count the times that I have longed for more. More substance something I can really sink my teeth into so to speak.
Well I was working through the Joyful Woman’s Manual and I came across a great Bible study method that spells it out wonderfully. Then hubby (being the Bible scholar that he is) and I worked to modify it a bit. And this is what we came up with:
Studying the Bible
- Write out each chapter or section first (this was suggested by a professor of mine at Bible College & he was right you get so much more out of the text when you copy it word for word!)
- Read each chapter or section 10 times (I really like to use different versions. you really learn a lot)
- What is the theme or main thought? There may be more than one.
- What are the key verses to understanding this chapter/section? Be sure to understand them!
- What persons are mentioned and what information is given about each?
- Commands to follow?(C); Promises to be claimed (P); Lessons to be learned (L); Examples to Follow (E);
- Are there any significant words repeated?
- Any Words that need defining (think if you had students you were teaching)?
- What logical reason can you detect for the inclusion of this chapter/section in the Bible (this can be connected to #2)?
- What does the passage say about God the father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit?
- Write out a simple outline (also from #2).
- Read Study notes/ Commentary on the chapter/section.
- Notes or Ah-ha moments! What did you learn from the text personally?
I really love this method because i can break it up. It does not take very long but yet it gets you deeper in the word! Amazing!