Did you know there is a difference between reading the Bible and studying the Bible?
I like to think of it in terms of relationships.
Reading the Bible is like a casual date with an old friend. You catch up and reminisce about the good times you’ve had together, but you don’t really delve too deep into any particular topic. It’s a nice way to pass the time and feel a sense of connection, but it’s not really intense or serious.
Studying the Bible, on the other hand, is like a serious relationship. It requires commitment, effort, and a willingness to ask tough questions and have difficult conversations. It’s not always easy, but it can be incredibly rewarding and fulfilling. Just like a good relationship, studying the Bible requires patience, understanding, and a willingness to listen and learn from one another.
So the next time you find yourself with some free time and a desire to engage with the Bible, ask yourself: are you in the mood for a casual date or a serious relationship?
Personally, I prefer serious relationships.
And I usually deepen that relationship through inductive methods.
Inductive study methods involve a commitment to examining the text of the Bible in a careful and systematic way. This approach requires effort and a willingness to dig deeper into the context and meaning of the passage, rather than simply accepting a surface-level understanding of the text.
Sound too hard and confusing?
Well, maybe it is … but it doesn’t have to be.
Just like a serious relationship, inductive study methods require patience and understanding as you seek to gain a deeper understanding of the Bible. It’s not easy, but it is simple.
And, just like a good relationship, the rewards of engaging in inductive study can be great. By taking the time to examine the text and allow it to speak for itself, instead of imposing pre-existing beliefs or biases onto the text, you can gain a deeper understanding of its teachings and how they apply to your life.
The effort you put into studying the Bible will pay off in the form of a deeper understanding of its teachings and a closer relationship with God.
So are you ready for a serious relationship with the Bible?
Are you tired of feeling like you need a degree in ancient Greek to actually understand the Bible?
Well, have no fear — Amy Hale and I created a “Learn to Study the Bible & Understand What it Means” workbook to save the day (and maybe your sanity). While we created this to go through with our Abiding Together Community online, we also want to offer it to you to use at any point.
With this step-by-step guide, I’m convinced you can learn to decipher even the most confusing passages in no time. We’ll teach you the tricks of the inductive trade, and even how to fake your way through a Bible study group (just kidding, don’t do that).
Deepen that casual Bible relationship into a serious one.
You are invited to join our Facebook group to go through this with us! Regardless of whether you join our Facebook group or not, this tool will be helpful in your regular, private Bible study time.
Grab your workbook today and join the ranks of the knowledgeable and enlightened.
Your Sunday school teacher will be so proud (and maybe a little relieved that you’re finally paying attention). 😜
If you are interested in studying the Book of James or Galatians, we also have entire inductive-inspired workbooks available for those too.
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I love the analogy of reading the Bible and talking to old friends and studying it being like in serious relationship. You really delve deep to understand what's there and the reward is a nourishing relationship.