The Big Idea: Use 5
questions to guide you as you read the Bible.
Reading the Bible shouldn't be hard!
Have you ever opened the Bible because you felt you should, but you weren't sure what you were reading or how to study it? Don't you sometimes wish you had a private tutor or that Siri knew more about theology?
The Bible is the living Word of God with words of wisdom to grapple with for our everyday lives. It CAN be relevant when you open yourself to the Holy Spirit's impression on your soul. The Holy Spirit was key, breathing every thought to the human authors what to say, which they then wrote down in their own words.
Above all, you must realize that no prophecy in Scripture ever came from the prophet’s own understanding, or from human initiative. No, those prophets were moved by the Holy Spirit, and they spoke from God. 2 Peter 1:20-21 (NLT)
First ask God, the Holy Spirit, to speak to you as you read, opening up your mind and heart to understand. Expect Him to do this.
Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. Luke 24:45 (NLT)
A couple key questions can get you on the road to relevancy and understanding.
1. Who wrote this book and to whom did they write?
Often the author's name, audience and a brief explanation is found in the first 1-2 verses of the book in the first chapter. Or you can find an introduction from a study Bible. You Version has an online introduction for each book when you use the New International Version.
2. What is being said about God in these verses?
Do you see something about God's character? Does He reveal more of Himself? Is there a promise He makes to His people? A declaration of truth?
3. What is observed
about human nature in this passage?
The Bible is loaded with real people, not heroes that do everything right. People mess up pretty badly in the Bible. You learn a lot reading it about human nature, sin, temptation, frailties and discouragement, mistakes and family squabbles. God still seems to take great interest in us and wants to know us and intervene in our lives for His glorious purposes.
4. Is there a key word or phrases important to this passage?
Often if a word or phrases is repeated over and over, it is for a purpose. The author wants to grab the attention of the audience and explain what is important. What might this word or phrase be about? What does this word mean to you?
5. What is God saying to me?
It's OK if something profound doesn't jump out at you, but it is a good question to ask. What resonates with you from this reading? What surprises you? What brings you joy?
May you find great satisfaction reading the Bible. If you are not sure where to begin reading, check out this blog I posted a few weeks ago. May you discover so much you can't contain your pleasure!
Up Next: Trust the Bible Because of these Dead Guys
Previous Post: Have Problems with the Bible?
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Reflect:
1. Is there a question here you never thought of before? How might this question be useful to you in your observation of the Bible?
2. Could you try this with a verse or two as sample, or test? Check out this verse. Remember to pray first for guidance.
By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires. 1 Peter 1:3-4 (NLT)
