How do You Study Your Bible?

What does it mean to study the Bible? We are constantly being encouraged to “study more” or “study ahead” for Bible class, but what does that actually mean? Is it more than simply reading the scriptures? If it is, what is involved? Is it hard? All these questions come to mind when we start thinking about studying the scriptures, and sometimes they stop us from even opening the book because we are too intimidated by these unanswered queries. In this post we are going to look at those questions and practice some Bible study tips to help you get started.

First, it is more than simply reading the scriptures. The difference between reading the Bible and studying the Bible is much the same as the difference between reading a textbook and studying the material that is there to learn. Studying has more depth than simple reading. Studying will give you more benefit than simple reading. In short, studying is way better.

Since studying the Scriptures is much better than simply reading them, we need to understand what “study” involves. The simple explanation is this: study involves asking questions of the verse and looking around it for answers. Let’s look at an example together to see what I mean:

^“Those who were reclining at the table with Him began to say to themselves, “Who is this man who even forgives sins?”  
                                                    -Luke 7:49 (NASB)

First, read the verse and mark some questions you yourself have. After you have done that, take a look at a few I have for it:

1. Who are the ones reclining at the table?
2. Who is the “Him” they were reclining with?
3. Whose sins were forgiven?

Take a look in the verses surrounding verse 49 and see if you can find the answers to these questions as well as any others you may have come up with. My answers are upside down on the bottom of this article, but do yourself a favor and try to answer them yourself before looking!

*Hint: All the answers are found from Luke 7:36-50.

*Hint: You may have questions that are not answered! That probably means the answer is not important to the text.

The questions you have may differ from mine, but the answers should all come from the same place: the Scriptures. This process of asking questions and finding answers to them in the Scriptures IS studying your Bible. Remember this process, and use it often! Happy studying!

Highlight the text below this sentence to find the answers!

Answers Below:

1. We aren’t told!
2. Jesus – Luke 7:40
3. The Immoral Woman – Luke 7:37ff