OBSERVATION: Look first for the obvious
When studying Scripture the first thing to look for are facts about people, places and events. Always remember God doesn’t do fluff. Every single word in the Bible God has placed there for a reason. Many facts in the Bible are repeated which makes them easy to see. When God repeats something it’s important for us to know. Repeated ideas often show the context of the verse or verses you are studying. The obvious will establish a framework from which to conduct your Bible study.
OBSERVATION: Be objective
Don’t study Scripture with preconceived expectations or ideas. Follow the evidence and let the text speak for itself. Let the text come to you. Your primary objective when studying Scripture is to establish the context which will then allow you to interpret what God is saying. The ultimate goal is to know God’s truth so we can adjust our beliefs and our lives accordingly. The context of God’s Word never changes and neither does the absolute truth of God. Make sure whatever spiritual guidance you receive matches the Word of God or it is false information. Don’t be spoon fed Christianity. Study so you will know what is truth.
John 17:17 – (Jesus speaking) – Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.
Objective Bible study lets you know what God says and means. Then you can personalize the Word for yourself. As you reflect on God’s message to all men you must also reflect on how it applies to you. You must study your Bible objectively (inductively) and subjectively (devotionally) at the same time. God the Holy Spirit quickens His Word in your heart when you seek Him and take time to listen to your God. God is intimately involved in every aspect of our lives and He has messages for each one of us at specific points in our lives but often we fail to be receptive and wind up missing God’s counsel.
Witnessing for Christ