If you've been meaning to read and understand the bible more on your own, thank God. This means that the Holy Spirit, who is the spirit of truth, is working in your life! Reading the bible is not easy at first but quick progress can be made. Here are some guidelines (specifically twelve questions) to help you get the most out of your bible reading time. Don't worry about applying them all at once. You can always come back here and take a bit at a time.
Have you set a regular time?
Getting the most out of your bible reading means making it a priority. Usually morning is ideal since it's the time we can best control. Reach for your bible before your phone. Let His word be the first word you hear each day.
Have you taken the time to pray?
Reading the bible is a spiritual act. So take some time to pray before you start. Pray that God would open your mind to understand his word and your heart to receive it.
Have you read and re-read the passage?
Usually the best insights come the more you've read a passage. God wants to be found in his word. So take time to search for Him and the truth you need to hear.
What is the 'burden' of the passage?
The writer under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit wanted to communicate something. He wanted to get something off his chest. There's usually a main message we're meant to take away. It's important that we get familiar with this message before a personal application is made.
What are the verbs that drive the writing forward?
Verbs show what is happening in the passage and often point to what is important. If you take time to think about the verbs, the burden of the text will become clear.
What specific words and phrases stand out?
Some words will stand out because they are vivid, confusing, and/or remind you of something else. Ask questions why these parts of scripture stand out to you.
What does this passage say about God?
The bible wants to show you who God is. As you read, ask what characteristics of God you're meant to see. Also, consider whether your understanding of God is consistent with what the bible teaches about him.
What does this passage say about man?
The bible is a mirror for humanity. In the bible we're meant to see who we are. Ask yourself what strengths, value, and worth are reflected and what needs, weaknesses, and sins are revealed.
how does this passage lead you to jesus?
Jesus is meant to be found in every passage of the bible. It’s because the bible is really about Him and his saving work (John 5:39). As you read, consider how the passage is preparing you to understand Jesus better and to receive more of him into your life.
How does your understanding of this passage match or conflict with other passages in the bible?
God's word is consistent. The message of one passage will be affirmed by other parts of the bible. If the passage you’re looking at seems to be in conflict with another, stay at it and try to work it out. You can also ask someone or access a commentary online as well.
What is one thing you can do in prayerful response?
The bible is meant to be understood and obeyed. For the Christian, the learning is for living. Pray how you can live out the truth(s) you learned.
Who can you share all of this with?
Sharing what you learned with others is really helpful. It clarifies the significance of what you learned. It produces accountability in your life. It can encourage others. It gives glory to God.
May God bless your reading of His word. The bible teaches that the word of God never returns void (Isaiah 55:11). And be encouraged that as you seek to get the most out of your bible reading, God is seeking to have more of you. You will change and you will grow!
If you have any questions, please reach out to info@brokenbreadtoronto.com and a member of our teaching team will help in any way we can.