Biblical Interpretation Session 2 filled
The purpose of this session is to define the observation component of inductive Bible Study, to learn how to observe a passage of Scripture, and to practice observing.
I. Prayer for Illumination
1. Pray for a clear mind
2. Pray for the Holy Spirit to “cast His light” on His word
3. Pray for God’s direction to ensure an attitude of humility
II. Observation
1. Observe, Observe, Observe,!!!
2.Definition
a. What does it say?
b. The work of the observer is to “dig-out” the facts
c. Do not attempt to interpret; only observe what it says
d. Most often skipped step in Bible Study
3. Key observations include
a. Key words
b. Key dates
c. Key statements and words (especially repeated words)
d. Key themes
e. Key doctrines (truths)
f. Key events
g. Comparative words
h. Conclusion or summary statements
i. Transitional words
j. The historical setting
4. Practice #1
a. Break into 2 groups at each table
b. Within your group, each person in order should read the Acts 1:8 aloud
c. As a group, list 12 observations about Acts 1:8
d. Do not attempt to interpret…list the observations
e. Time: 10 min
5. Rules of Observation
a. Scripture will never contradict Scripture
b. Take the scripture literally
c. Do not base doctrine on an obscure or unclear passage
d. Notice the author’s intent
e. Check your findings regarding introductory matters with godly, evangelical authors
6. Observation Questions
| Who is writing or speaking? | Who is the hearer? | What is the passage about? |
| When does this take place? | Where does this take place? | Why does the author write? |
| What problems are addressed? | What is the context? | What are the commands? |
| What are the promises? | Are there cause/effect relations? | What are the repeated words? |
| What is taught about God? | What is taught about Jesus? | What is taught about the Holy Spirit? |
| What is taught about mankind? | What are the contrasts? | What lists are presented? |
| Are there other comparisons? | What is the “big idea?” |
a. Sum up the main thought of the passage in one phrase
b. Ask follow-up questions that come to mind after asking the above questions
c. Probe the passage
d. Be a detective
7. Practice #2
a. Break into 2 groups at each table
b. Within your group, each person in order should read the Acts 1:8 aloud
c. As a group, list 25 additional observations about Acts 1:8
d. Do not attempt to interpret…list the observations
e. Time: 10 min
8. The complete process of observation (Review)
a. Read the passage several times (10 is not too many)
b. Ask preliminary questions
i. Who is the author?
ii. What are the circumstances at the time of writing?
iii. Who are the recipients?
iv. What can you learn about them (Jew or Gentile, wealthy or poor, etc.)
v. Where was the book (letter) written?
vi. When was the book written?
vii. Are there any problems addressed?
c. Outline the passage
d. Develop other questions regarding the passage
e. Complete the outline
9. Matt. 16:13-20
a. Read the passage
b. Make observations regarding this passage
c. Record these on paper to be handed in at end of class
d. Do not interpret!!!
e. Leave 5 min of class to discuss the outcomes from the groups
III. Remaining steps of inductive bible study
1. Correlation
2. Interpretation
3. Application