So Many Methods, So Little Time: How to Sort Through Bible StudyBy Liz Lockwood .jpg) Discussing Bible study methods and resources can seem overwhelming. Simply walk into any Christian bookstore and you will find a myriad of books on how to study the Bible. However, looking at Bible study options doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, all of the resources out there must provide at least one method to meet your needs and schedule.
Of first importance is to recognize the necessity of knowing God’s Word. One’s spiritual life cannot remain healthy if fellowship with the Lord is neglected. Consistency in this area should not be viewed through a legalistic viewpoint—as if we earn more “brownie points” with God by reading the Bible. Studying God’s Word is the means that He has given us to know Him better, and we recognize our dependence upon Him through a regular prayer life.
You might think you don’t have the time in your schedule, the personality for discipline, or the mind to understand Scriptures, but if you desire to know God more you will find a plan that conforms to your life. The list below includes a few of the many study methods to help meet individual needs.
*For the Individual Who Struggles with Consistency: Reading Through the Bible Each Year
While I do not know one person who doesn’t struggle with consistently reading the Bible, there are definitely some who struggle to a greater degree. It could be a lack of motivation on your part, the difficult circumstances in your life, an irregular work schedule, or a simple lack of knowing what to read. Regardless of the reason, you may find it very difficult to read the Bible more than once a week as you sit in church. It may seem overwhelming to read the whole Bible in one year—that’s a lot of chapters! But think of it instead as a spiritual goal that you can accomplish in getting to know the Lord better.
Several Bibles have one-year plans laid out in the back pages, and you can certainly find plans online. Just remember not to simply breeze through the chapters in an effort to mark them off your to-do list. Concentrate on the verses you are reading and meditate on them throughout the day.
*For the Individual Struggling to Go Deep: Reading with a Commentary
It is very easy to gloss over Scripture and not apply it as you should. If you struggle to interpret Scripture or to go deep enough in application, pick up a commentary and read it alongside the passage. This will aid your understanding of Scripture and enable you to grasp the author’s intent in writing. I guarantee this method will enable you to grow in your understanding of the Word.
*For the Individual Who is Struggling with a Particular Sin: Reading Topically
While I prefer the commentary method listed above for regular, in-depth Bible study, there are seasons when we each need to concentrate spiritual efforts toward rooting a specific sin out of our lives. For times like that I encourage you to read passages on the particular issue you are facing. For example, if you are struggling with forgiving someone spend a week or two reading all the passages on forgiveness.
*For the Individual Who Needs Practical Application: Bible Companion Studies
I use the term “companion” study because you should never substitute a study book or human author’s writing for the Word of God. However, these resources can be useful in applying the Word of God. Bible study books often focus on a particular topic, but as an added benefit they are usually laid out in a five- or seven-day format, which encourages consistency. One point of caution: Make sure that the author is theologically sound and that you evaluate the study on the basis of God’s Word.
The above methods are not inclusive of all that is available but can hopefully provide a few directives on this important discipline. Remember, it is not about what you do or how much you read; it’s about knowing the Lord more.
Liz Lockwood, MDiv, ThM, resides in Charleston, South Carolina, where she serves as the Adult Ministry Associate at East Cooper Baptist Church.
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