Get Together: Study (Word / Verse) Red – Answer Questions | Blue – Read Scripture Disciples must learn to study the Bible on their own: Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You’re truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you’ll know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31-32) Word Study One way is Word Studies: researching an important biblical term and applying it to life. This is the simplest method, good for young disciples.
Begin by finding a concept of interest: having joy in life; knowing God’s grace; dealing with anger learning what Jesus taught about prayer; learning to forgive; etc. Find a word/concept you’d like to research and apply. Because the Bible is a complex collection of books, it’s preferable to limit the scope of a word study. For instance, study “joy/rejoice” in Philippians (occurs 11x). Or “grace” in Ephesians (11x). Or “love” in 1 John (44x). Or “suffer” in 1 Peter (19x). Doing a word study: Let’s use “joy/rejoice” in Philippians as an example. • Read Philippians 3-5 times to get a grasp of the book’s theme. Read in different translations. • Write out the times “joy” and “rejoice” are used • Do 5Ws & 1H (Who was involved? What happened? When did it happen? Where did it happen? Why did it happen? and How did it happen?) for the verses; write down ideas. • Connect the study to Jesus; How does He demonstrate this concept (i.e., His teachings of joy in John’s gospel; joy in His personal life). • Journal how the concept interacts with your life (If I’d been Paul ... if I’d been the audience ...) • Find a verse that captures the concept best; carry it with you and memorize it. • Discuss what you’ve learned about joy and about yourself • Apply the study to life: How can I live a joy-filled life? What robs me of joy? What must change? • Pray: “Father, make me joyful like Paul was, like Jesus was, whatever the circumstance I’m in.”
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