BIBLE STUDY
"Your word I have treasured in my heart"
It is with great pleasure that our church has been gifted with a valuable library of books including some on theology, Biblical handbooks, dictionaries, Christian living, apologetics, evangelism, and many Biblical commentaries from a diverse host of scholars. Many of these volumes are no longer in print. We are therefore both excited and deeply honored to host this collection as a valuable resource for our church family so that we can better learn how to grow in our Christian walk.
This library was given to us through the efforts of Pastor Baker through his working relationships with Chafer Theological Seminary. The leadership of our church has decided to accept this generous gift and be it's custodians. We are truly privileged as it will be a tremendous resource not only for our church members, but also for other churches and pastors as well. Everyone is welcome to stop by and browse our shelves.
Context - the larger view
The word “context” means that which goes with the text. If you lay the solid foundation of observation, you will be prepared to consider each verse in light of the surrounding verses, the book in which it is found, and the entire Word of God. As you study, ask yourself: Is my interpretation of this passage of Scripture consistent with the theme, purpose, and structure of the book in which it is found? Is it consistent with other Scripture about the same subject? Am I considering the historic and cultural context? Never take a Scripture out of its context to make it say what you want it to say. Discover what the author is saying; don’t add to his meaning.
Key words & phrases
A key word is one that is essential to the text. Key words and phrases are repeated in order to convey the author’s point or purpose for writing.Key words can be marked using symbols, colors, or a combination of the two
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Transitional wording
Words such as "therefore", "thus" and "for this reason" indicate that a conclusion or summary is being made. You may want to underline them in the text.
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Ask Questions
The key to engaging the text in a thoughtful manner is asking the right questions. "Listen” to the text as you observe it and ask the questions that will lead you to a right interpretation. Don't be afraid to challenge the text with legitimate, piercing questions.
Contrasts & comparisons
Contrasts and comparisons paint word pictures to make it easier to remember what you’ve learned. For example, in 1 Peter 5, he compares the devil to a roaring lion, whereas in verse 8 Peter also contrasts God’s attitude toward the proud and the humble.
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References to time
The relationship of events in time often shed light on the true meaning of the text. Marking “time” will help you see the sequence or timing of events and lead to accurate interpretation of Scriptures.
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Consistent truth
When you know God’s Word thoroughly, you will not accept a teaching simply because someone has used one or two isolated verses to support it. Those verses may have been taken out of context or other scriptures overlooked or ignored that would have led to a different understanding. As you read the Bible more extensively, you will be able to discern whether a teaching is biblical or not. Saturate yourself in the Word of God; it is your safeguard against wrong doctrine.
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Observe Literary Features
Look for literary features like repetition, comparison and contrast, conjunctions, illustrations, and the like. Are figures of speech being used? Is the author using a certain tone in his writing? Take your time and try to understand if any of the words are conveying the author's feelings.