The Inductive Bible Study Method

Exploring the depths of God's Word!

3 Key Steps:

1. Observation: What does it say? What do I see?

• Identify key words and phrases.

• Look for contrasts and other transitional clauses (but, therefore, however, in order that, etc.)

• Context: immediate & broader ... what is the background (who, what, where and why)?

• Examine Cross References (similar passages of scripture)

2. Interpretation: What does it mean?

• Define key words (as needed)

• Seek the Spirit's leading to “rightly divide the Word” (i.e. discern between law and grace, etc.).

• Always interpret the obscure in light of the obvious!

• Important Axiom: “When the plain text makes perfect sense, seek no other sense.”

3. Application: How does this apply to my life?

• Do I need to change my mind, attitude or actions to align with Scripture?

• Is there something specific that I am being led to do?

Helpful Tools:

1. Commentaries

2. Dictionaries

3. Bible Software 

• Recommendation:  e-Sword (excellent free software)
• Other Software at Discount Prices

• Tip: Commentaries are useful, especially for gaining insight into the historical background. Remember, the commentator is always biased ... and his/her words aren't infallible.

• Tip: While no translation is perfect, some Bible translations are better for Bible Study than others ...“word for word” translations such as the NASB, KJV, ESV, etc. are considered more reliable than “thought for thought” translations (NIV, NLT, etc) and paraphrases (Good News, etc).

• Tip: The goal of Bible Study is to get to know the Author (Jesus), rather than to obtain knowledge!