Contents page - Internet Archive
Contents page
Introduction
How does this study work?
Why should I learn about God?
Who can know the Bible?
What can you learn from the Bible?
Are you prepared to study?
The Steps of Study.
Overview
Sequence
Context
Scripture Reference
Word Study
Language Search
Command Search
Layers
Principle
Thought flow
Example
Application
Page 2
Page 4
Page 6
Page 11
Page 14
Page 17
Page 28
Page 31 Photo by Peter Schmidt Haltern
Just remember the three main points
Page 33 Overview, Word Studies and Layers
Page 36 or Owl for short.
Page 38
Page 46
Page 49
Page 50
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Introduction
Hi! How are you doing? I’m the writer implanted here in this paper, waiting to help you out. I did not make this like a lecture or thesis, but like a conversation. I hope this style will help you greatly. As you read, imagine a person asking you this question, take a journey with me. For the entire study I use the King James translation.
I’ll put bold print and this smiley face to show what you might be thinking. When you see an italicized part like this, it’s me talking to you.
How is this paper set up?
This paper is the first part in a three-part series: Bible Study, Spiritual Growth,
and Godly Living.
The series is based on a trinity because God is a trinity and he made man with a trinity nature also.
Bible
Study
Godly
Living
Spiritual
Growth
1John 5:7 “For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the
Holy Ghost: and these three are one.”
Genesis 1:26 “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.”
The universe is also based on many trinities. Atoms are trinities; they are made of protons, neutrons and electrons. The basic necessities of life are also a trinity. Every animal has to eat, have water to live and needs to breath. Even Earth itself is made of a trinity in its nature because it contains water, land, and atmosphere.
There are many other examples of this in nature. Can you think of any others?
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How are you a trinity? Why are you a trinity?
A. He, she, and it A Because God said so
B. Mind, body, and spirit B Because God made us in his image
C. Good, bad, and ugly C I am not a trinity
D. Me, myself, and I D I don’t know what I am
Answer box Answer Box
Spiritual Pop Test
Do you talk to your dog or cat more than you talk to God? Yes No Do you ever study the Bible outside of church? Yes No Are you happy with your life? Yes No Do you live a life pure of addictions? Yes No
1 Thessalonians 5: 17 “Pray without ceasing.” Shouldn’t we at least give the same courtesy to
God we give to our pets?
2 Timothy 2;15 tells us “Study to show thyself approved.” God honors those who honor his
Word.
Nehemiah 8:10 “for the joy of the LORD is your strength.” The child of God has a source for joy and peace from God.
Jesus said in Matthew 5: 8, “Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.”
Ok I admit it, my spiritual life is not what it should be. But what does it matter if I
learn about God or not. Can’t I just live my life the way I want? It’s my life you know.
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So why should we learn about God?
1. There is a God and one day you will face judgment.
Hebrews 9:27 “and as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.”
And there will be no excuses:
Romans 1:20 “For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse.”
2. You need God.
Isaiah 53:6 “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way;
and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.”
Let’s say this box represents all knowledge. Color in an area that you think you know compared to all knowledge
25 percent 50 percent 75 percent 100 percent
It was very small, yea I get it. I don’t have the answers but he does.
3. The Bible is the only source for the true answers you need in life
2 Peter 1: 19 “We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed.”
We have more education, technology and medicine than any other time in history but we still live in a world of violence and pain. Only the Bible contains the answers we truly seek in life.
Would you like to be closer to God? Well? Would you?
Yes, I suppose so, I haven’t really thought much on it I guess.
Ok, fair enough. Take a look at this:
Lies about the purpose of life:
• To make money or wealth
• Have fun, Entertainment, or Sex
• To gain power or fame
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Money won’t buy you heaven or happiness. Entertainment won’t bring you peace. Power or fame won’t give you true joy. You’ve been lied to by Satan all your life.
The problem with these goals is enough is never enough.
If the way you live decided your purpose in life, what would that purpose be? A Recreation
B Working
C Relationships
D ?
The Bible tells you the meaning of life.
Ecclesiastes 12:13 “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.”
Ecclesiastes 12:14 “For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.”
Hey man, why are you making me think this early on?
I just want you to realize how much you really need God in your life. Wouldn’t you like to read the Bible and really understand what it means?
ve you come to realize that there is more to life than just working and paying bills?
I invite you to begin this journey with me.
It’s a journey worth taking.
You invest so much of your life in worldly things, come and learn how to invest in eternal things that won’t fade away.
They say the journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step. The first step for you is to realize where you are spiritually right now. I’ve scattered some pop tests though out a spiritual report card. No, I can’t see in your mind but God knows the struggles you are going though and has given you the answers already in His Word.
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Who can know the Bible?
Luke 8:10 says, “ Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God; but to others in parables; that seeing they may not see and hearing they might not understand.”
Only the saved person has been given the spiritual eyes and ears to be able to perceive the deeper, life changing lessons found in the Bible. Jesus said they would not be able to see, but he did not exclude them from hearing.
Romans 10:17 “Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the word of God”.
The truth of the Bible must be taken by faith. In order to have the ability to understand all the principles of the Bible however; a person needs to be saved. When you receive his Word, God grants faith; this same faith is what you need to be saved, and faith is what God uses to guide you.
Saved people are given spiritual eyes and ears to understand the Bible. Are you saved? Quit making excuses or saying how good you are, I just need to know if you’re saved.
How much of the Bible do you understand?
If you’re not sure you’re saved, here’s how to be saved:
1. You need to realize Jesus died on the cross for your sins.
2. Repent of those sins, and ask him to save you. It’s that simple to be saved.
Why should I study the Bible? That seems like a lot of work.
That’s a fair question. The Bible is God’s instructions on how to deal with all the problems in life, and it’s easier than you think.
The Bible is like a ruler that sets the standard for all other measurements.
[pic]
Photo by Michael Youngblood
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With this ruler a straight line can be drawn. This line is the perfect will and standards of God. All lines that are not straight can be measured and seen for what they are by this ruler’s edge. All other lines are the philosophies and moral codes that most people in the world believe. These jumbled up wavy lines do not match the perfect line set forth by the Bible. It is our responsibility to reach out to those who live by other beliefs and show them the perfect standards of God.
Matthew 28:19 “go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the
Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.”
If the Bible is so great, why don’t more people follow it?
That’s a great question. Here are some reasons people will not follow the Bible:
Excuses why people don’t study the Bible
• Your line is judging my line. People say we are judging them by telling them about the Bible, but we are simply showing the straight line for what it is.
Hebrews 4: 12 “ For the word of God is quick and powerful and sharper than any two- edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”
A mirror does not judge you when you use it. It is a tool which you can use to make improvements in yourself. It is not the Christian who is judging a person life; it is Gods Word which convicts them of their sins.
Which philosophy best suits you? Answer box
A. If it feels good do it
B. Nothing really matters
C. Do unto others before they do unto you
D. If your not first then your last
E. In everything find the balance
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• All lines lead to the same place. Many people think that they can get to heaven with any belief, but Jesus says in John 14:6. “I am the way the truth and the life, no one cometh unto the Father but by me.” There is one and only one way to heaven.
Arrange these dots into a square shape. There are many ways to arrange the dots. But only one pattern for them to form a square shape. There is only one truth, and one way to the truth.
• There is no absolute line. Some people believe there is no absolute truth. The Bible is the absolute truth which they are denying. Some people say there is no true standard
for living, but the Word of God is the one true standard for all people.
2 Peter 3:3 “Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts.”
2 Peter 3:5 “For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water.”
• Your line is old fashioned. Some people say the Bible is obsolete. Psalms 119:160 “Thy word is true from the beginning, and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth forever.”
Photo of Betsy Burns of Vivian la
Photo by Michael Youngblood
Like the elderly, Christians’ often get accused of being old fashioned. The wisdom gained by age never really goes out of date; neither does the wisdom of the Word.
Each of these tools basic design is thousands of years old.
A chisel Answer box
B hammer
C saw horse
D none of the above
Which one is so out of date, and is no longer useful?
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The world faces the same problems today as two thousand years ago. War, violence, crime and death as well as many other subjects are discussed in the Word of God. The Bible has the answers for all the worlds’ problems.
• You can make your line straight on your own. Some people think that because they are a good person, they don’t need the Bible or God. Some also think their good works will get them to heaven. The Bible says in Romans 3:10 “There is none righteous no not one.”
From which of these diseases can you save yourself? Answer box
A Heart attack
B Cancer
C Brain tumor
If you cannot save yourself from a physical ailment which you can see, you certainly cannot save yourself from sin in your spirit that you cannot see.
• None of the lines really exist. Some people claim we don’t really exist and we should not worry about the after life or the consequences of our actions. These people will be very surprised the day they have to face God.
Hebrews 9:27 “As it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.”
If someone broke into your house and stole all your possessions, would you be angry?
Yes No
If we did not really exist why would it matter?
• As long as your line is more straight than curvy you’re doing ok. Some people think that as long as your good works outweigh your bad works, God will let you into heaven. The Bible says, in Isaiah 64: 6 “But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags;”
No amount of church attendance, Bible study, or any other good works will get you into heaven.
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If you had a gallon of clean water, how much sewage could be in the container with it and you still drink it?
A Half the gallon Answer box
B One cups worth
C One spoonful
D None at all
How pure is your life?
Pop Quiz #2
Have you ever used an excuse of any kind not to serve God? Yes No
How does your life compare to how the Bible says live? Close Not close
Do you have any addictions or habits God would not like? Yes No
The Purpose of the Bible
Have you ever had to stumble along in the dark, not knowing what you might trip on or step into? It can be frustrating at best and dangerous at worst. Let us travel in the dark no longer.
Psalms119: 105 “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.”
As a lamp, the Word shows a person where they are stepping. As a light unto your path the
Word shows the direction you need to go.
So you’re saying the Bible is for me. I always thought I was doing God a favor by studying, praying or going to church.
For the same reason you would read an instruction manual to a new electronic item, you need to read the Bible.
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Our command to study the Bible
Let’s look at 2 Timothy 2:15
2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
• Study = is a command not a request
• To show thyself approved = give evidence for
• A workman = don’t be lazy; anything worth doing takes work
• Needth not to be ashamed = come without being embarrassed before God and man
• Rightly dividing = knowing the correct interpretation- going through the layers
• The Word of truth = it’s true because God said it.
We are to study to give evidence that we are saved. It allows us to work for God without shame, also to correctly interpret God’s Word. Restate this verse in your own words
What we are to learn from the Bible:
Let’s look at Proverbs 1:2-3
Proverbs 1:2 To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding.
• To know = understand
• Wisdom = ability to apply knowledge; skillful
• And instruction = discipline and chastisement
• To perceive = means to separate something into various pieces or layers
• The words of understanding = to see the whole picture
God wants us to understand how to be skillful and how to be self-disciplined. He also wants us to recognize the deeper meanings of his message.
Which are you? Disciplined Non disciplined
Proverbs 1:3
Proverbs 1:3 To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity.
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• To receive - to take in or accept
• The instruction = means chastisement, discipline, correction, rebuke
• Of wisdom = intelligence or being smart. It teaches us how to be smart enough to recognize sin in our life.
• Justice is that which is right; moral laws; it is the basics of right and wrong. Even people
who do not go to church or don’t know anything of the Bible, understand some basic moral laws like stealing and murder are wrong.
• And judgment is receiving the penalties for our mistakes. We have to live with the consequences of our actions.
• And equity = that which is equal and fair. When we do that which is not fair, eventually it comes back to haunt us.
In the original language, the words for wisdom are similar but different in proverbs 1:2-3
What does that verse mean?
It means when we read the Bible, we learn lessons from others mistakes and victories. We gain
Godly wisdom and we learn to be fair and just.
True or false
I am fair at work. pay all my debts. I never cheat
The message of the Bible is to show us the self discipline that comes from:
• Being wise enough to recognize mistakes
• The lessons learned from moral laws
• Having to live with the consequences of our actions
• Seeing the effect of Godly verses ungodly lifestyle
Boy do I fall short. Maybe I’m not good enough or smart enough.
Studying the Bible will shape you to be Godly and wiser.
Proverbs 1:4
Proverbs 1:4 To give subtilty to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion.
• To give subtlety to the simple = is the ability to plan ahead, giving wisdom to the simple minded.
• To the young man knowledge = awareness, recognizing of things that a person has not experienced before. You might never have been hit by a train but you know you would not
like the results.
• And discretion = invention and planning.
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You can have a desire to do something but if you don’t know how to do it, desire alone won’t work. You need the knowledge.
First of all the Bible was given in layers.
Study the Bible like an archeologist studies the things he finds in the earth.
He knows that if he finds items in one layer, there could be other items in deeper layers.
Name and explain several things you have done and did not plan well
1
2
3
What were the results of these badly planned things?
Scripture will answer one or more of these questions:
Overview-
• Sequence = in what order it happened
• Context = why it happened
• Scripture references = how something similar happened
• Thought flow = how it affects other subjects
Word study
• Language search = How the meaning of particular words affect the application.
• Command = what to do about it
Layers
• Principle = what is the nature of the thing
• Example = how it happened before
• Applications = how to put it into practice in your life
That’s a lot of points to remember!
Just remember the three main points: Overview, Word study and Layers, or OWL for short.
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Study preparation
Before you get into deeper parts of study, it helps to start off with a basic understanding of the sequence of events. For longer passages this is especially important. Here are some questions to ask:
Who is present? When did this happen? Where is the action taking place? How did it happen? What is happening?
Why is this happening?
What if you knew Joseph went to prison but didn’t know why? What if you knew the animals got on the ark but not why? Or that Jesus was beaten but not why it happened? You would be
missing half the story wouldn’t you? How much are you missing from other stories because you don’t know the why behind the what? Don’t be surprised if you get ideas or realizations before you get to a particular step.
Yeah, I have seen some Bible stories before but did not know the whole story. Maybe that is why it didn’t make sense at the time.
Don’t forget to ask those questions: who, what, where, when and why.
The main helpful tools in study are:
• A good study Bible
• A concordance
• A notebook and paper and pen
• A Bible timeline
• A Bible dictionary
What do you call a good study Bible? Photo by Michael Youngblood
One of my favorites is the Thomson Chain Reference Bible but there are many others to choose from. Ask an employee at any Christian book store for help with choosing one that is right for you.
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OK, so what is a concordance? Sounds like a Mexican dish or something.
It’s a book that lists biblical words in alphabetical order, so you can look up Bible verses easier.
Here are some tips to keep in mind when studying:
1. Memorizing a passage word for word is a great goal; however, it is a better goal to know more passages even if you don’t know it word for word. This is because if you know at least one key word in a passage, it is a simple matter of a concordance search to find what you seek.
2. It is better to know the book and chapter than the verse number
3. God doesn’t stutter, so if two verses seem to repeat almost the same message, God has used it to emphasis its importance.
4. The Bible has no contradictions. If two passages seem opposed to each other, go back and look at the root words that are given, or the context of the passage. (We will discuss this in detail later.)
How many of the study tools do you have? All some none
So you’re saying don’t get hung up on one verse, get to know the whole passage and the verse will be easier to understand.
That’s exactly what I’m saying!
Here is an example of the way one study might precede.
While studying the judgment of Egypt, you realize that Israel was mostly unaffected by the judgments put on the Egyptian people. Then you remember that Lot was taken out of Sodom and that Noah was kept from the flood. At some point, God is going to come get us also.
There are many cases in which God chose to protect His people from a coming judgment. This evidence gives case for the pre-tribulation rapture.
So I might start with one idea, and end up on another subject entirely.
Yes! Sometimes God gives you an answer to a question you haven’t even asked yet.
The first area we will look at is an overview of a passage. A passage can be studied easily in this order. Each step will lend information to help the next step. Though you can do any step at any
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time you may miss out on beneficial information or a realization you would have gained going in relative order.
• Sequence
• Context
• Scripture reference
• Thought flow
Overview:
In this study we will explore two basic kinds of reasoning: deductive and inductive. Deductive is going from general to specific while inductive is taking the specific and categorizing it to the general. Scientist, most of the time, have to take the specific to find the general. But Christians have the Bible as our guide. God’s wonderful Word tells of the principles that rule both the spiritual and physical realms.
Deductive would say all people eat (general), Therefore you must have to eat eventually (specific).
Inductive says I see you eating (specific),
Therefore all people must need to eat (general).
In deductive reasoning you are looking at known relationships and figuring out the smaller details. With inductive you are looking at the details to figuring out the overall relationship.
Identify the following as inductive or deductive
All people sin
The wages of sin is death
The gift of God is eternal life Whatsoever a man soweth that shall he also reap
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Overview
Chapter One Sequencing
Sequencing is simply putting things in order.
Why is an organized pattern important?
If you were going to put many items in a room, would you simply throw everything in one big pile, or would you have boxes and shelves in which to store those items? Our minds are like the room, and sequencing is like the boxes and shelves used for storage.
If you don’t know the sequence of an event, anything you learn will simply be in a disorganized pile of bits and pieces of information which is mostly useless. This is one of the most common reasons people get so easily discouraged from studying the Bible. By sequencing out a passage, you are organizing what you have studied into a useful form. Sequencing is also a helpful step
for other areas of study. There is no better source to learn from than the Bible and the first step in that learning is sequencing.
A messy room is like messy mind, yea sounds like mine alright.
Get a notebook for sequencing so you can look back on notes later.
• In Sequencing, you write down the main actions and statements of a passage to better understand the events and patterns.
Sequencing
You can sequence things in order of:
• Actions
• phrases
• Events
• any listing of persons, items, or things
You already know how to sequence; you just may not realize it. Which one of these is in the right order?
3 7 9 4 8 2 3 1 5 6 or 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
The second one.
See that was easy. Let’s try another one.
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Put these thoughts in order:
I went to the store got out of bed woke up got dressed.
You would have to wake up first before you could do anything else. Then you get out of bed, and then you would get dressed, and then go to the store. None of these four things will work out of order. There are many spiritual teachings that have to be in order to make sense. This is also true for our relationship with God and others.
Ok, try one more example.
Put these in order:
Know any saying what do you I am of
Without the proper sequence, this sentence makes no sense.
Here are the same words put in the correct order: Do any of you know what I am saying?
How many lessons might you be missing because you don’t know the sequence or how the sequence relates?
Sequencing isn’t hard; we normally sequence most of what we do anyway.
That’s the point, it’s not hard.
A thing without order is in chaos.
Sequencing helps us to keep track of the order of the events. One example is the cross account in the four Gospels
• Sequence to see breaks in the pattern. You can gain wisdom from it.
• Form a mental time line for later passage studies
So what good does this do me anyway?
Take a look:
From just sequencing you can learn things like: Jesus was not born in December
The wise men didn’t arrive when Jesus was first born, it took some time.
This is just one example, but there are many more in the Bible.
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While you are studying the sequences look for a change in the pattern of behavior, action, teaching or any other changes.
a-b----a-b-----a-b------a-c
Try this example. What is the change in pattern here?
Monday, Mark bought a soft drink and chips Tuesday, Mark bought a soft drink and candy Wednesday, Mark bought a soft drink and candy bar Thursday, Mark bought water and chips
What was the change in pattern of what he drank or what he ate?
Even though he had different junk food everyday, the change in pattern came from what he chose to drink the last day.
Now let’s sequence the Bible
1 Sequencing by action
This step is very simple. You look at a passage, and see what actions or activities are taking place, or what actions are expected of the reader. The action in sentences that contain words like: run, walk, talk, went, etc, should be easy to pick out. Other actions may take more time to look at before it becomes obvious.
Proverbs 10:23 “It is as sport to a fool to do mischief: but a man of understanding hath wisdom.”
Here are some action verbs: Run, walk, said, threw, went, journeyed, took
Here are some passive verbs: is being, to do, was, will have
The important thought in the first part of this sentence is the fool doing mischief. This sentence does not tell of a certain person but of fools in general. Had it said there was a fool who did mischief it would have been easier for most people to pick out? For this step it doesn’t matter if the sentence has an active verb like “run” or a passive one like “to do”.
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When you stop to consider the sequence of actions, it gives the basic foundation for later questions such as why something was said or done in a certain way.
Look at the verse below and see if you can pick out the three main actions here.
Psalms 1:1 “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful,”
Homework answers are found in back
Can you find the three basic actions here in this passage? Name and explain
1
2
3
How do the actions progress, and how are they related?
2 Sequencing by key words
Now look at the passage and consider the words that are key to the meaning of the verse. Normally these are the nouns because they distinguish names of people, places, things or ideas. Key words can even be concepts or understood suggestions.
Try writing a one paragraph story about any subject you wish. Then go back and erase or cross through all the nouns. Then you will see your story no longer makes any sense. This will give you an idea of what to look for in Bible passages.
You should also consider any description words in the verse. For example Jesus told several people they had “great faith.” It is important that he called their faith great faith not just faith. God does not stutter or waste words if he describes a subject, the description is important.
Psalms 1:1 “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful,”
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Step one: Can you pick out the key words in this verse that add to the lesson?
So I can write out the main words, look them up and know a good bit of what God is saying?
Yes but there’s more you can learn than just that.
Step two: Take the key words you just picked out and put them together. What extra meaning do you get when you consider these words?
3 Sequencing by lesson
If you have ever listened to a fairy tale, then you know there are moral lessons in a story that go beyond just the words that are used. For example the story of The boy who cried wolf is a lesson against lying. It never says it that way, but you can gather the danger of lying from the story. Another example is the story of The three little pigs. The first two pigs quick fix solution almost got them killed.
The Bible was written in simple language but layered with deeper levels of moral and ethical teachings. Do not try to read the Bible like a novel. Instead inspect every word and phrase carefully as if you were a detective looking at evidence from the scene of a crime.
Here are some questions to ask to help you determine the lesson:
1 What action took place?
2 What did not take place?
3 What does this passage say I should do?
4 What are the consequences of not following the advice here?
5 How might the events of this passage affect other things?
6 If a person was involved in this passage how did it affect them?
Note: Not all of the questions will apply to every passage.
Psalms 1:1 “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful,”
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How many different lessons can you get from this verse?
4 Sequence by phrase
There are more ways to break down verses. Each way you break them down will give you a different perspective on the verse. Remember the Bible is layered, like the layers of rocks in the earth. You must be like the wise archeologist and dig down deep to find the treasure you seek.
At this point you’re beginning to look for more subtle variations in a passage. I’ll use the letters
A and B to show the differences.
1 “A” leads to “B”
2 “A” happens then “B” happens but they are not connected
3 “A” and “B” happen at the same time and affect each other
4 “A” and “B” happen at the same time but do not affect each other
Here are three examples of sentences written similarly but don’t mean the same.
Because I went skating I ended up in the hospital. This sentence tells you that skating lead to a trip to the hospital.
I went skating then later went to the hospital. You cannot determine from this one sentence if skating and the hospital trip are actually related or not.
I went both skating and to the hospital today. This sentence tells you that the person went two different places but the skating trip did not cause the hospital trip.
When you read the Bible carefully consider each word and phrase. Small differences in how a passage is worded can sometimes make a big difference in what it means.
Sequence practice from the Bible
Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Matthew 5 : 16 There is a jewel here in this verse can you find it?
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You can learn more than one lesson from any one verse. Don’t be afraid you might fail. This is not about how much you know about the Bible or intelligence or ability. This is about how to really study the Bible
First, take time to put away all distractions
Assignment:
• Pray – Ask God to forgive your sins and ask him to help you learn His Word.
• Look up scripture. Read it several times, slowly and carefully
• Think on the meaning. Write down the sequence.
• Write down in your own words what this verse means
Please do these steps before you go any farther. You’re not just trying to learn an answer to a question; you are learning how to study. Here are some background and word definitions to give you something to think on:
Background: We sing “This little light of mine, I am going to let it shine.”
We think of “letting our light shine” as doing good works. We are like the moon reflecting the sun.
But we are not the light source. Jesus is the light source.
Are shining the light and good works the same thing?
What conclusion do you draw from the verse? [pic]
Photo by Santiago Munoz
It says for us to let our light shine so that others can see our good works. Yes, shining light and good works has to be two different things.
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5 Sequence by listed item
This step should be easy for most people. Mainly you look for the conjunctions and write out a list of the things connected to the conjunctions. A conjunction is a word that connects other words.
Common Bible conjunctions
But and therefore however wherefore or either since while as because after
Proverbs 2:1 “My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee.”
Proverbs 2:2 “So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding.”
Proverbs 2:3 “Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding.”
Proverbs 2:4 “If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures.” Proverbs 2:5 “Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge
of God.”
There are eight things listed here in this passage, and then they repeat. Then there is a promise at the end. Can you find all nine things listed?
1
6
2
7
3 8
4 9
5
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6 Sequencing by behavior
We as humans are already familiar with observing the behavior of others, you as the reader simply need to learn to use that skill when you read. You use the skill in almost any relationship. For example you might know your best friend so well you know all their good and bad habits. If something about their routine changes you would most likely notice. For example if your spouse normally drinks two cups of coffee before work and this morning did not want any coffee you would find this odd for them.
In this step consider a persons pattern of behavior in a passage and see if the way they act changes. Why was a person happy in one passage and angry in another? Or why did they follow God at one time and reject God later.
John 21:15 “So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.”
John 21:16 “He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.”
John 21:17 “He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.”
Looking at these verses: Jesus asked Peter three times “do you love me,”
but it wasn’t until the third time that Peter was grieved. Why?
7 Sequencing by event
Some times the Bible gives details on a subject in one place that it does not give in another. If you tell one person you own a two door truck and another you own a Ford Ranger does telling the second person the make and model invalidate what you told the former person? The answer is no, because your talking about the same vehicle but are giving different details. God often makes a broad statement then restates it and fills in the details.
This step can take more time than the other steps so far but can yield great rewards of understanding. Biblical events often overlap each other, that is where the events of one passage might be happening at the same time as another passage or even be speaking of the same event.
Event one Event three
Event two
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This is especially true for the gospels when they tell of the same basic events from different perspectives.
There are a few key places where this step is especially helpful. The first is the last week of Jesus’s life. This time is what is often called the crucifixion week. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John each record different details about the events. Certain events are the same in all four
gospels like; he was crucified between two thieves and the soldiers dividing up his clothes. Other details are different from one account to another.
An example of this is in the book of Matthew, the account describes an earthquake, some resurrected saints and the Roman soldiers that guarded the tomb but the other three gospels do not record this, while mark is the only one that records the time of the crucifixion. There are many other similarities and differences in the crucifixion story, from one account to another.
Read these passages and compare the events. Matthew chapters 26, 27, 28
Mark chapters 14, 15, 16
Luke chapters 22, 23, 24
John chapters 18, 19, 20, 21
Here is a another example
Genesis 1: 27 “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.”
Genesis 2 :22 “And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.”
God often makes a broad statement then comes back and explains
Why did God say twice he made man and woman?
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End of sequencing review
There are seven basic ways to sequence the Bible.
Draw a line between the lists to find the phrase that matches the method
1. by action
2. by key words
3. by type of lesson
4. by phrase
5. by listed items
6. by behavior
7. by events
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer
Walking, standing, sitting
And he was grieved
That appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. the grace of our lord
Prayer, supplications, intercessions and giving of thanks. The moral of the story is
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Context
Context is the setting and circumstance in which an event happens.
Sometimes simply reading the chapters before or after a passage will give you the basic context. When a person knows the context of a passage, that context answers the question of why something is being said or done.
Fifty percent of studying is knowing where to look.
So if I know where to look, then half the work of studying is already done?
Where what to
To look look for
What it means
That’s right, many people get discouraged by not knowing how to find the answers they seek.
If you were an archeologist looking for a particular item, then knowing the right spot to dig would be the most important step. If you know the right places to look for background information, then digging for the Bible’s treasures will be much easier. Many people get intimated by not knowing context, but you don’t have to be.
Here are some helpful context places and they can be found online or in book form.
[pic]
Photo by Michael Youngblood
• Bible Encyclopedia can give you sequences of events as well as the background.
• Bible commentaries are like the encyclopedias but for small sections of the Bible.
• Study guides for passages, people, places, events and these are another form of commentary.
• The book Manners and Customs of the Bible is a good background book.
• See online sites hand out for other sources.
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Customs, traditions, and practices can make a difference as to how some passages should be perceived. When it comes to Bible interpretation, you can’t believe everything you see from Hollywood.
Here are a few examples of context.
Tearing clothes: This was a sign of grief or extreme emotional pain. You have heard of being so mad you want to pull your hair out? Tearing of clothes had the same meaning. Keep in mind the average person only had one or two changes of clothes, so losing a piece of clothing would have been a big loss.
The well: They did not have indoor plumbing, so drawing from the well was a daily event. The well became a community meeting place. When you see wells in the Bible, some important event, on a personal or social level, usually took place.
Women and children were seen on the same level as property. The Bible’s message of respect for children and women would have caused a reaction to people of the day.
Keep in mind that sometimes you can use one passage to help explain another passage. If you don’t find what you are looking for, do not be discouraged. Find out what you can, and then go on to another step. You may get a chance later to find out more about what you are looking for from another source.
You may discover a person, or book or some other source that will provide the information you are seeking. Remember, studying is not about memorizing information, but about the discovery of the teachings of God’s character, the purposes of life, death, and many other biblical doctrines.
Throughout your study remember that you are not alone. It is God who is leading you by His spirit to seek His Word. If you truly have a desire to know Him through His Word He will give you that opportunity.
Also keep in mind that the devil will try to distract you constantly. Phone calls or problems that take your time, emotional distresses, and perceived failures in studying are a few examples. Almost anything can be used by Satan to distract you from studying.
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Clear out all distractions Pray for God’s guidance
ASSIGNMENT: find a Bible encyclopedia and look up Moses.
• Answer the questions on this page.
• Think about the application of the information you have read.
o What did Pharaoh fear?
• Is someone else’s problem or fear causing you trouble?
o Why was Moses put into a bulrush ark?
• In what way has someone else’s actions saved you from harm?
o What kind of education did Moses receive?
• Has your education or family life affected your present actions?
o How long did Moses stay in Midian?
• It was at the end of his stay that he started his ministry.
God had to teach him some things before he could start. What is God trying to teach you now?
o What was Moses afraid to do when he was in front of the burning bush?
• What do you fear that may keep you from recognizing things of God?
o What was Moses objection to returning to Egypt?
• Do you have excuses not to serve God?
Now try these questions for practice
What was Moses’ brother Aaron’s job before becoming high priest? What did David kill before he killed the giant?
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• Feel free to read more on Moses’ life and ask yourself additional questions to think on and find ways to apply the information to your life.
Have fun and I hope you learn a lot ϑ
Wow! Once I looked up the story of Moses, it made a lot more sense.
Now you’re on the right track
Scripture reference
Using scripture references without context may be the most dangerous Bible tool any Christian can practice. Many doctrinal splits have occurred because of scriptural debates taken out of context of its passage.
Let me show you one example of how this can happen.
Matt. 27: 5 says Judas hanged himself
Luke 10: 37 “Jesus said go thou and do likewise”
Whoa that’s freaky.
Yes but don’t worry, these two passages are not talking about the same thing. You see, without context it is easy to get confused. Without context you could put these two passages together to encourage suicide. Scripture reference without context can sometimes cause more harm than good. The best commentary on the Bible is the Bible itself. Other passages can lend help to the correct interpretation.
Here are some tips to finding other passages:
• Look up names of places and persons.
• Study events.
• Dissect and research phrases.
• Key word searches like judgment, cross, grace, and salvation, or any other crucial words in the text.
The goal at this step is to get familiarized with different perspectives of what the Bible says about a particular subject. There are many study Bibles that can help with this. Two of them are:
• Word Study Bibles: Look up one, two, or more combinations of words, phrases, or ideas that relate to the passage you are studying.
• Subject Chain Bibles: These Bibles list additional passages that relate to the subject you are studying.
As you study more passages, context will become easier since you will have more base knowledge to go on. Let me say again for this and other steps, if you do not find the scripture
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you seek, do not let it stop or discourage you. Or, if at first you don’t succeed, you’re doing about average.
Scripture reference practice
• How many verses in the New Testament use these words in the bible?
Cross Love
• Why is looking up other passages important?
Find and complete these phrases:
• “All scripture is given…”
• “God is love”
• “…broken down, and with out walls…”
You should never be afraid to ask your pastor’s Biblical advice on locating a passage. Even the most learned Bible student does not have the whole Bible memorized. There are also books that list things by subject which can make this process easier.
Most any Christian book store clerk can help you pick out the study Bible or Bible study guide that’s right for you.
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Word Studies
Chapter2
Language Searches
The point of this step is to find a more complete definition to words in the Bible than the English language can provide.
The King James translation is accurate but the English language is inferior in its form to the Hebrew or Greek languages. Sometimes words have deep or additional meanings that cannot be seen with English words. This will take some getting used to but, will yield a better understanding.
I don’t know how to look this stuff up.
Here are some helpful tools:
• E-Sword, a free down loadable Bible with search option
• On line Bible study sites
• Word study commentaries
Here are some useful study web-sites
bibles/about or
Type in frequently asked questions about the Bible
studies/dicipleship/htm lessons/bible_study_techniques.htm
Or type in bible study techniques
sundayschool resources. Com/ timeline.htm
Or type in timeline of the bible
Go on a Bible search program or look in a concordance. To use a concordance look up words like you would in a dictionary, it lists words from the Bible in alphabetical order. To use a Bible search program click on the program, then click on a Bible. It will have a search option, use that.
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Then simply type in the word you want to find. Most programs even let you find several words from the Bible at once.
Always keep in mind the main subject of a passage in relation to any word. Already knowing the sequence and context of a passage will make this step easier.
Keep in mind a few things:
• The Greek and Hebrew languages are more precise than any commonly used form of English. For any one English word the Greek or Hebrew languages may have two or more words that express the same idea.
• Words also change emphasis and meaning over time. One such example is the word
“cool” used to mean “not hot,” now it is used to express approval.
How many words can you think of that have changed meaning in the last 30 years?
• There are a number of words and phrases in English that have changed meaning over the last two thousand years since the Bible was first completed. The word “for” in today’s term means to accomplish something, but in Greek means something already completed. This changes the meaning of Acts 2:38.
• However, the biblical Greek ceased to exist as a living language shortly after the New Testament was completed, therefore, locking the original meanings in place. The same can be said of the Old Testament Hebrew.
• Most of the Bible is to be taken literally, there are exceptions like similes, metaphors and parables and allegories, but the Bible will indicate this when that is the case in a story.
Here is an example of a simile
For example, Matt 23:37 tells us Jesus wept over Jerusalem and wished he could take her under his wing. He is not literally a chicken, of course, but he says this to make a point.
Here is a metaphor
• Leviticus 20:24 But I have said unto you, Ye shall inherit their land, and I will give it unto you to possess it, a land that floweth with milk and honey: I am the LORD your God, which have separated you from other people.
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The land does not literally flow; it is an expression to show that the land was green and fruitful.
In the same way, parables and other literary tools are used to illustrate a point. One way to keep this separated is to look for the word “The” before the name of a place or person used in the story. This will often indicate that the events in the story really happened, and not simply an illustration to make a point.
Can you give me an example?
Here is a parable
In Luke 8:5 Jesus says “A sower went out to sow.” He did not name any names, but just used the idea of a sower to make a point.
In Luke 19:16-31 Jesus tells of a certain rich man and then names the beggar as Lazarus. He was telling you that this story is about real people.
Here is an allegory
Judges 8: 9-15 tells of the trees looking for a king. It is a amusing story that tells the true character of Israel’s king at the time.
How do I do that?
Use the concordance or Bible search program. When you are using a Bible search program, most of the time you can simply click on the word for its meaning. You can also look under tools section for word definitions or background searches, depending on the program used.
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WORD STUDY-PRACTICE John 21:14-17
Look at the words for love in this verse
Remember what I told you earlier in sequencing about Jesus and Peter?
Assignment
1. Look up this passage
2. Notice the conversation between Jesus and Peter
Also look up salvation and virtue, they have different meanings in different verses.
Yes I can see that the difference when I looked them up
Using a concordance, computer program or online study site, look up the word love. Even
though it’s spelled the same, Jesus and Peter are not using the same word. There are many places in the Bible where one word can make a difference to the interpretation.
Command search
In this step you ask, what does God expect all believers to do about what this passage says to do? Sometimes we must stop doing some things and start doing other things. There is at least one command in the Bible that relates to most any subject in life.
Let me share with you a few of my mistakes.
• I used to never open the Bible outside of church.
• I would tithe sporadically then impulsely buy items that caught my eye.
• I would make a decision to do a particular thing then ask God to bless it.
• I let myself be drawn to watching unhealthy garbage on TV.
• I would spend all my free time on recreational activities.
• I would daydream while the preacher was giving his message.
• I would find excuses not to speak to people about Jesus.
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Areas to consider:
• Commands that apply to all humans, like repent of your sins.
• Commands that apply to all believers, like submit, study, pray, and love.
• Commandments to all churches, like preach, teach, and make disciples.
Look at the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20:1-17-. Is there any of the commandments you have kept perfectly? List the 10 commandments and how you might have broken them.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Ok Smarty I got you here, I’ve never killed anyone.
Have you ever thought about it?
Yes.
You may not have done the act but you thought murder in your mind, its still a sin.
This is the first level of application. You are asking, in general terms, what God expects of any Christian. If you’re not following the general commands God has given you, how can you expect to be lead to a more specific relationship?
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Here are some questions to ask.
• To what command does this text apply?
• Am I following those basic commands?
Is your life missing a true spiritual guidance? What commands are you ignoring?
Spiritual growth does not exclude failure but it does require submission to God’s priorities and will.
Layers
Chapter three Principles
So far we have looked at how to sequence; explored the background; searched the meaning of
key words; how passages fit together, and how you should respond. Now consider that more than one lesson can be learned from any passage.
Jesus taught in parables. A parable is a story that uses a physical illustration to make a spiritual point. The nature of the moral issues that are taught in parables can be stated as principles.
A principle is the explanation of the nature of a thing. This explanation can be stated as
actions characteristics, or relationships.
I’ll use air to demonstrate all three.
1 The force, exerted by moving air, is its actions
2 Air has weight and takes up space, this is its characteristics
3 The interaction of air, to a wing or shape, is its relationship
Principles can be stated as actions, characteristics and relationships.
• Action principles are mostly cause and effect, they apply to both natural and spiritual realms. They explain why a thing acts or reacts the way it does.
• Characteristic principles show an attribute of its subject. Attributes like an objects size, nature or capability. Relational principles demonstrate how animals, plants, or objects
cooperate or affect other things in its environment.
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Dominoes falling in sequence are a good example of the action principle.
Photo by Michael Youngblood
Characteristic principles are like a beaver’s nature to build dams. If you do not know what a beaver is or what he does, then when you see one you will not understand what you’re seeing.
[pic]
Photo by Keith Williams
In the same way many people learn facts about the Bible, but without understanding the true nature of what they are reading is lost.
[pic]
Photo by Betsy J Enslin
• Relationship principles are like the interaction of bees and flowers.
A bee and flower depend on each other for survival and affect each other’s life cycle. Relational principles are ones that explain how a principle affects its environment.
A biblical principle is the explanation of the nature of spiritual matters. The point of studying principles is the wisdom that is gathered from understanding the deeper nature of a truth that God has hidden in a passage. The law of sin and death affects us but the principle of grace overshadows sin and death. Principles overlap and affect each other.
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The Three primary Principles
Compare and Contrast (Forces Competing)
Cause and Effect (Forces Affecting)
Compound and Connection (Forces Combing)
These three are the primary principles that govern all things that God has created. These three principles govern physical laws, relationships, and moral matters.
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Here are the five main characteristic of principles.
1. Physically illustrated: They will normally fall under some type of cause and effect statement. Usually they indicate a desired state or action and its consequence. Example: Sowing and reaping is a real action, but also an important principle. (Galatians
6:7)
2. Conjunctional: They tend to use words like: if, but, so that, however, and, because, and wherefore. (John 3:16)
3. Universal truths: These are truths that apply to everyone regardless of time, distance, and culture. (All have sinned.) Romans 6;23
4. Relational: These statements improve your standing with God and fellowman. ( Love your neighbor as yourself)
5. Helpful-: If you adhere to them, these truths will shape you to be more like God. (Luke 6:31)
Principles are the layers of wisdom God has placed there for you to think on and discover.
Let’s take a look at cause and effect first
Cause and effect
are forces affecting each other.
A leading to B
A common example of cause and effect is how we gain weight because of poor eating habits and little exercise. In the physical world many forces in nature, like the law of gravity and others, relate to this principle. This, in spiritual matters, usually deals with the consequences of choices, whether are they good or bad. These and many other verses like it in the Bible deal with action and consequence.
Galatians 6: 7 “for whatsoever a man soweth that shall he also reap.”
James 1:15 “when Lust hath conceived it bringeth forth sin: and sin when it is finished, bringeth forth death.”
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Matthew 6:33 “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you.”
Ecclesiastes 10:8 “and whoso breaketh a hedge, a serpent shall bite him.”
What cause and effect things can you think of in your life?
Compare and Contrast These are forces competing. A instead of B.
These principles deal with opposing forces. In the scientific application, one example is how oil and water will not mix, even if put in the same container. In the Biblical sense, this is the fight of the spirit against the flesh. A person can follow after the flesh or the spirit, but you must choose one or the other.
Forces, actions, or decisions that fall in this area cannot be joined, and one force cancels out in part or whole another force.
Photo by Rune Mathisen
Matthew 6:24 “You cannot serve God and mammon”
I Corinthians 6:12 “ all things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient”. Proverbs 3: 6-7 “Be not wise in thine own eyes, fear the lord and depart from evil”
The spirit and flesh are opposing forces, see Romans chapter 7 and 8.
Revelation 2: 16 Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly,
3 John 1: 11 Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good.
What either/or type of choices do you make everyday?
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Compound and Connection
These are forces combining- A and B together.
We use this principle every time we do the dishes. You need to use both soap and water to do the job right.
These principles in nature and in spiritual things are ones that have complex relationships and interactions with each other. These verses tell of two or more
things that cannot be separated.
Matthew 6:21 “for where your Treasure is your heart will be also”
What you spend your money on, is what you really care about.
Mark 4:19 “Follow me and I will make you fishers of men”
Photo by Michael Youngblood
If you follow Him, you will be a fisher of men. So, if you are not a fisher of men, then you are not truly following Him and doing His will. There is a relationship, you must submit to in order to follow Him and tell others of Him, which cannot be separated.
Proverbs 1:5 “A wise man will hear and will increase learning”
It doesn’t say a wise man can increase learning, but will increase learning. Again this is an inseparable relationship.
What things can you think that cannot be separated?
I see, the three main principles affect everything in life.
Yes that is correct
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The main subjects that principles cover are:
Life, death, sin, salvation, love of God, love of others, money management, law, judgment, health, happiness, and fair dealings
How to find the correct principles
Truth is usually the balance of forces. The truth is in the middle. God makes a point and the devil places his teaching all around it to cause confusion.
Examples of this are: Salvation
1. One side is “easy believe-ism” that teaches just knowing about Jesus and being a good person is enough to get you to heaven
• John 3:3 tells that you must be born again. Just knowing about God does not get you to heaven. Satan has seen Jesus and knows more about the Bible than we do, but it does not make him a Christian
2. The other side says only one kind of group can get to heaven at all.
• Romans 10:13 says “for whosoever calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
The truth is that any one can get to heaven by accepting through faith, Gods gift of salvation.
3. Another example is on security of the believer.
John 3:18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
• One group says you can do what you want with no consequences
• The other group says any sin you do makes you lose it.
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Principle practice
Read the section on the three primary principles before doing this practice.
Which principles do theses verses represent? Write the words cause, compound or contrast
to indicate its principle.
For where your treasure is your heart will be also
Matt 6 :21
Trust in the lord with all thine heart
and lean not unto thine own understanding
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct they paths
Proverbs 3: 5
Proverbs 3 :6
For whom the lord loveth he correcteth
The fear of the lord is the beginning of knowledge
All things are lawful, but not all things are expedient
For whatsoever a man soweth that shall he also reap
You cannot serve God and Mammon
Proverbs 3: 12
Proverbs 1: 7
I Corinthians 6: 12
Galatians6: 7
Matthew6: 24
A wise man will hear and will increase learning
Follow me and I will make you fishers of men
Proverbs 1: 5
Matthew 4: 19
There are many more verses like this that teach relational principles; in fact, the Bible is full of them.
Some of those verses apply to more than one of the principles.
Now you’re getting it, the Bible is layered and God many times puts several lessons into one passage.
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Thought flow
A thought flow is an idea based tool that helps you organize the information that you have learned. It allows you to see in a glimpse how many different parts of the subject you are studying relate to other subjects.
Have you seen charts like this?
Yes, people use them to show the relationship of different positions or things.
Well that’s what you’re going to learn to do next, but this time with Bible subjects. The thought flow gives this information some form.
So far you have gotten the sequence, context, and other references.
The point of thought flow is to see how the information you have gained fits together.
If you had a town with many houses and buildings but no roads to connect them, how well could your town operate? A mass of information without a way to relate that information together will only be of small use. It will never get to be used to its full potential. Just as each button on a
radio has a use and purpose, the information you have gathered needs a purpose to truly be useful.
All the information you have gathered needs a road to connect them. The thought flow is this road. The great thing is this road can be built in many different ways. You can add to this road anytime, take points away or change its configuration around.
This road, like a rubber band, can be made to stretch in many different ways.
To make a thought flow diagram:
1. Start with the subject you are studying. Here are some examples: love, family, the resurrection or any other generalized subjects.
2. Then you divide your subject in categories like: effect, supplies, people, places, or characteristics of the base idea. There are many other basic ways to break subjects down, this is just one example.
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Subject
Effect
Supplies
People
Cost of Need for
3. Take these categories and break them down further. You can break those into parts like:
the cost of, need for, process of, just to name a few. Then you can break those down even further
4. Eventually you can see a picture of how many different aspects of a subject relate.
.
Thought flow practice: Assignment:
• Take away all distractions and pray.
• Use at least 1 of the following words and make a similar break down in the example given in the list of words in the next box
Here is the list of words to choose from to make a practice diagram
• God Family Jesus Cross salvation payer study church
Feel free to add as many levels to your diagram as you wish.
This will later be a useful tool in determining the principles lesson God has intended for a particular subject or passage.
When you only study bits and pieces, you only see a small part of the bigger picture. Thought flowing is a way to see that bigger picture. Do you see how this works now?
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I take a subject and list the different parts that show what it is?
Yes. Now try to make one of these kinds of charts.
Here is an example of how a thought flow is done
War
People Places Weapons
Hand held Motorized Thrown
Swords
Spears
Javelin
Daggers
Bows
Axes
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Example
Examples can also be of help here. If you were looking up judgment you would find references to these stories: Israel’s exodus from Egypt, Sodom and Gomorrah, the flood and many passages in the book of Revelation. Additional passages on the same subject can give you a well rounded knowledge of the overall subject.
If you were doing a study on the Cross, some examples of sacrifice would be:
• Abraham almost sacrifices his son,
• The command to take up your cross.
• Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross
This differs slightly from scripture reference, in that with scripture reference you look up key words to what is in the text you are studying. With this step of example, you are looking for similar subjects that do not necessarily use the same key words.
There are helpful books that contain lists of various subjects that can be obtained from most Christian books stores. Even without subject books, as you become familiar with more stories in the Bible this step will become increasingly easier.
Ah, I see! So I just think of other examples that could be similar in some way to what I’m studying?
Yes! Now you got it.
Example -practice
Look up these stories and consider the similarities they have.
1. ADAM AND EVE
2. NOAH
3. ABRAHAM
4. JACOB
5. JOSEPH
6. MOSES
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Application
All the studying you have done so far would be of little use if you did not apply it to your life.
If memorization of the Bible alone was the goal, God would have made us robots. If getting a diploma were the goal, Jesus would have started a college.
If simply constructing a fancy building was the goal, Jesus would have taught us about blue prints.
If you could fly a plane safely but not land safely, you would be crazy to fly at all. Coming to a conclusion on how a passage applies to you is like landing a plane.
The way all planes land is basically the same but the direction of the wind and its speed causes each plane’s landing to be unique. In the same way, the Bible applies to everyone but the application will be different, according to God’s plan, for that person’s life.
With planes, certain things are the same regardless of size or shape. They all have gravity pulling on them and the slower they are moving the less lift they have. In the same way every one, no matter their background, is subject to sin’s effects, and all Christians must submit to God’s will in order to grow spiritually.
Photo by Michael Youngblood
We often misapply the Bible because we cannot copy someone else’s spiritual life. God has a specific will for your life. He didn’t make us like robots or a Jell-O mold for all of us to have the same talents or ministry.
The point of God giving us the Bible is so we can know His will, and His ways. He has given us two guides to deal with all of life’s issues. Those two guides are the Holy Spirit and the Bible. The Holy Spirit will never lead you to go against the teaching of the Bible. If you feel lead to do this, you best check what spirit you are really following. Knowing the principle lessons are important in understanding the application.
Here are some helpful questions, when looking for the application
• What happened in the story or passage?
• Have I run into a similar situation?
• Have I made the same mistake or had the same dilemma?
• What was the point of the passage?
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Are there any basic rules to help me interpret it correctly?
Yes here they are.
Here are some interpretation guidelines
1. No passage will contradict another.
2. No application will contradict the 10 commandments.
3. No application will contradict the two main laws Jesus gives in Matthew 22:37-39 (To love God and love your neighbor as yourself)
In Kindergarten they teach the ABC’s so that in first grade the kids can learn to read. What would the ABC”s of Bible study be?
There are three main concepts you need to know in order to understand most of what’s in the
Bible.
1. God’s nature
He created all things- He is a Trinity- God is Love
Gensis1:1 I John 5:7 I John 4:8
2. Man’s nature
We are a trinity – We are born in sin---we cannot save ourselves
Genesis 1:27 Romans 5:12 Ephesians 2: 8-9
3. Creations nature
It did not make itself – it is falling apart because of sin
It is not part of God, just made by him
Genesis 1:2 Psalms 102:25-26 Psalms113:4
Application-practice
USING ALL THE THINGS YOU HAVE LEARNED, LOOK AT THE SAMPLE BELOW FROM THE BIBLE
AND CONSIDER WHAT APPLICATION THIS MAY HAVE FOR YOU.
In 2 Timothy 4;13 Paul asks timothy to bring his cloak from troas.
Do all Christians need to bring Paul his cloak?
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GENESIS 6; 14 God tells Noah to bring him an ark of Gopher wood.
Should everyone make an ark like Noah?
Thanks for reading, I hope this book helps you on your journey of studying and interpreting The Bible.
1st Timothy 2: 15 tells us to rightly divide the Word of Truth. God began with dividing the light and darkness in genesis chapter one. He went on to divide other things in increasing order. This
is our example. We must begin a Bible study by dividing out the main concepts then proceed to more detailed issues.
Suggested first books to study Genesis, Psalms, Proverbs, and Romans
These four books contain all the major teachings found throughout the Bible.
Finally I encourage you to:
Study the Word- Know the Word- Live the Word
Here are some useful study web-sites
• Blueletterbible. com
• bibles/about or
Type in frequently asked questions about the Bible
• studies/disipleship/htm lessons/bible_study_techniques.htm
Or type in bible study techniques
• sundayschool resources. Com/ timeline.htm
Or type in timeline of the bible
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Answers for homework’s activities
Sequencing by action
Can you find the three basic actions here in this passage? Name and explain
1 walking
2 standing
3 sitting
How do the actions progress, and how are they related?
You begin by taking ungodly advice, and then you proceed to stand with them. That means you begin to think like them. Eventually, you are molded to be like the ungodly scorners.
1. If you choose to walk with the ungodly, and you listen to their advice, they will have an effect on you.
2. Then you will begin to stop walking with God and stand still, becoming spiritually stagnated.
3. When this happens, you sit with the scornful and become one of them.
Sequencing by key words
• Blessed = means happy
• Counsel = means getting advice
• Ungodly = those who are impure and dishonest
• Sinners = those who enjoy sin
• Scornful = those who mock the Bible’s teaching
These are a few of the words that can be considered key words here
Sequencing by lesson
Here is some examples of the lessons you can get from the verses.
Godly happiness does not come from worldly things/ It only takes one step
Getting bad advice/ Flee from evil/ Consequences of our choices/ Having bad friends
Having a bad attitude
Sequencing by phrase
Letting your light shine means having a Godly attitude then people will see your good works.
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Go back to beginning of passage you will see it’s a progression of thoughts on spiritual attitudes.
• Matthew 5;16 “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
Word search: the word “light” in this verse refers to a reflected light. We are not the light source but we are the mirrors of the light
The same word is used two verses before.
“Ye are the light of the world” is reflected light
Sequencing by listed items
There are eight things listed here, then they repeat and there is a promise at the end. Can you find all nine things listed?
This was from Proverbs 2 1-5
|• | |Receive my words--- listen |
|• | |Hide my commandments---- remember |
|• | |Incline your ear unto wisdom----look for |
|• | |Apply to your heart--- make use of |
|• | |Cry after knowledge |
|• | |Lift your voice for understanding |
|• | |Seek as silver |
|• | |Search as hid treasures |
| |• |The effect will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God |
Sequencing by behavior
Look on homework answer in a later session. The answer will come in the section on how to look up the meanings of Bible words
Sequencing by event
God often makes a broad statement then comes back and explains
Broad statement
Details Details
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He said he made man and woman then goes back in chapter two and explains it in more detail.
End of sequencing review
Action
Be careful for nothing
Key words
Walking, standing, sitting
Type of lesson And he was grieved
By phrase
Listed item
That appeareth for a little time and then vanish away
The grace of our lord
By behavior prayer, supplications,intersessions and giving of thanks
By events
The moral of the story is
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Context
You don’t need me to tell you these answers. When you have found the right answers, you will know it, and if you have trouble finding them then keep practicing.
Principle homework
|Connection |Matt 6:21 |Contrast |Proverbs 3; 5 |Cause Proverbs 3:6 |
| | | | | |
|Connection |Proverbs 3:12 |Connection |Proverbs 1:7 |Contrast |
Corinthians 6:12
Cause Galatians 6:7 Contrast Matthew6: 24 Connection
Proverbs 1: 5
Connection Matthew 4:19
Example homework
These stories share some basic similarities and lessons. Here are some areas to consider:
1. Family Problems.
2. A command to respond.
3. Temptations.
4. They each had times when they sinned.
5. God provided for them in hard times
The End
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This Section is for teachers to use for class for either homework or tests
How and why are we a trinity?
Label diagram
Fifty percent of study is
Sequence chapter review
Consider the verses before and after this one
Hebrews 9:28 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.
With out bringing in any other passages what is the correct interpretation?
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Sequence using:
Action- keywords- lesson-phrase-item-behavior-event
1. What is the most important reason to study the Bible?
A. Because it helps your testimony Answer box
B. Because God said to do it
C. as an example to others
D. none of the above
2. How are you a trinity?
Look at the passages, and sequence out the verses.
Mat 6:9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
Mat 6:10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Mat 6:11 Give us this day our daily bread.
Mat 6:12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
Mat 6:13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
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3. List the thoughts and tell what it means.
4. Circle all the lessons that apply to the passage on the previous page.
1 Prayer begins with acknowledgment of the father
2 Jesus died for all our sins
3 Godly will forgive us as we forgive others
4 Temptations can be fought by prayer
5 Asking God to provide is bad
6 Its ok to ask God to become rich
7 Submissions to God is very important to prayer
Principle Practice.
Write compare, contrast or cause
5. Proverbs 11:28
He that trusteth in his riches shall fall: but the righteous shall flourish as a branch.
6. Pro 13:6 Righteousness keepeth him that is upright in the way: but wickedness overthroweth the sinner.
7. Proverbs 11:29 He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind: and the fool
shall be servant to the wise of heart.
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Verses with a double meaning
8. Proverbs 13:11
Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.
9. Proverbs 13:24
He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.
10. Proverbs 15:27
He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.
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Make on thought flow on this Subject.
Sin
11.
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List of Credits
Many Thanks to the following people for their contributions to this book
1. God, for allowing me to write this.
2. Cheryl Youngblood for her editing help.
3. Joe brown and John Cooper for their editing work.
4. Mike Campbell for proof reading.
5. The Shreveport rescue mission for letting me teach this study there, which allowed me to refine the material.
6. Dr Peter Schmidt Haltern for his Photo of the owl.
7. Santiago Munoz of Barcelona Spain for his photo of the Moon.
8. Keith Williams for his photo of the beaver.
9. Betsy J Enslin for her Photo of the bee on the flower.
10. Rune Matthias for his Photo The oil and water.
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