The document outlines effective methods for studying and understanding the Bible, emphasizing the importance of scripture study and meditation. It differentiates between reading for information and studying for understanding, while suggesting varied approaches such as prayer, journaling, and using study tools. The ultimate goal is to foster spiritual growth and deepen the relationship with God through a well-rounded study of His word.

1. Putting the Pieces Together
Learning to Effectively Study and Understand the Word of God
Search the Scriptures, for in
them you hope that you have
eternal life, and they testify
concerning Me.
(John 5:39, Aramaic Translation)

2. Discussion Topics
Study Agenda
Scripture Study
What does it mean to study God’s word and why is it important?
Scripture Dynamics
Understanding the depth of God’s word and applying correct interpretation
Meditation
Falling in love with God through His word
Study Methods
Learning to rightly divide the word of truth
Bible Study Tools
The proper use and context of biblical research
1
Knowledge and Revelation
Comparing natural comprehension to spiritual insight and understanding
2
3
4
5
6

3. • Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it
day and night so you will be sure to obey everything
written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all
you do.
• Joshua 1:8, NLT
• Reading is for information
• Study is for understanding
• Faith increases with hearing
(reading), but relationship with
God is enhanced by understanding
(study)
• God is His word (John 1:1)
Scripture Study
Reading vs. Studying

4. MESSAGE
• What is the literal
message conveyed in
the text?
• What does it actually
say?
• What doesn’t it say?
CONTEXT
• What details and
events surround the
text?
INTENT
• What was the
original purpose or
expression of the
message (history)?
AUDIENCE
• To whom is the
message directed?
REVELATION
• Spiritual insight and
understanding
provided by the Holy
Spirit
Dynamics of Scripture
The Multidimensional Nature of God’s Word

5. METHOD
• Reading the Word
• Romans 10:17
• 2 Timothy 3:16-17
• Matthew 4:4
• 1 Peter 2:2
• Studying the Word
• 2 Timothy 2:15
• Psalm 119:11
• Holy Spirit
• 1 Corinthians 2:9-10
• 1 Corinthians 14:2
• Hebrews 10:16-29
• 1 John 2:20
• Message (Information/
Awareness)
• Context, Intent, Audience
(Knowledge)
• Revelation
(Understanding)
DIMENSION
Dynamics of Scripture Study
Knowledge vs. Understanding/Revelation

6. MEDITATION
• To think deeply or focus
one’s mind an d spirit for a
period of time, often in
silence, for the purpose of
spiritual or religious
purposes or as a means of
relaxation
• To think and ponder
deeply
Scripture Meditation
Meditation on the Word of God
•Communion and/or
communication with
God
Prayer
•Starving the flesh
(entertainment, food,
etc.) for the purpose of
connecting with God
Fasting
•Deep and personal
admiration and praise
for God
Worship

7. Study Methods
1st Dimension | Reading the Message while Building Your Faith
• Pick up your Bible and readRead
• 90 Days, E100
Bible Reading
Plans
• Eight chapters per day
“Eat Your
Eight”
• Read through John, Revelation,
etc.Book Studies
• Email subscriptions, mobile
updates, etc.
Daily Verses/
Readings

8. Study Methods
2nd Dimension | Study to Build Knowledge
Scripture
Memorization
Character
Studies
Word Studies
Research and
Exploration
(History)
Cross
Referencing
Study Groups

9. Study Methods
3nd Dimension | Building Relationship and Gaining Revelation
Meditation
(Journaling)
Prayer
Worship
Divine
Revelation

10. To maximize one’s
spiritual growth,
believers should
incorporate a variety of
Bible study methods to
ensure continued growth
in spiritual knowledge
and relationship with the
Father.
Bible Study Methods
Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth – A Healthy Balance
Reading
20%
Studying
20%
Prayer and
Meditation
40%
Listening to
Preaching
and
Teaching
20%

11. Bible Study Tools
Building Your Personal Library and Arsenal
Study
Bible
Summary
Bible
Online/
Electronic
Tools
• Concordance
• Dictionary
• Audio Tools
• Alternative
Versions
Christian
Books
• Commentary

12. BIBLE STUDY TOOLS
Demonstration
Bible Gateway
www.biblegateway.com
Blue Letter Bible
www.blueletterbible.org

13. PUTTING THE PIECES TOGETHER
Learning to Effectively Study and Understand the Word of God
Breath of Life International Church
©2014