Diligent Study 5

Introduction

In our first lesson, we looked at 2 Timothy 2:15 and noted some characteristics of the Bible student.

Then we introduced the idea of inductive study where we let the text lead us. However, we did make note of some appropriate presuppositions as we approach Bible study.

Next we looked at approaching text in its various forms. Books, paragraphs, verses, etc.

Finally, in our most recent lesson, we considered how we find answers to the questions that are raised by studying the text including some resources we might use to find those answers.

Today we are concluding with bringing all of that work to bear in our lives as we consider the application phase of Bible study.

The Point of Study

“It’s not about being right” (Jn. 14:15, 21, 31).

Be holy for I AM holy (1 Pet. 1:16; Lev. 19:2).

There is a knowledge that comes only from application (2 Pet. 1:4-9).

Primary Application

Is this a generic command to all, or is it directed to particular people (Acts 17:30; Matt. 19:21; Deut. 5:3)?

Does it involve a circumstance that still exists today (1 Cor. 4:17; 1 Tim. 2:13)?

Are we looking at a character trait or a specific action (1 Thess. 3:12; 2 Thess. 3:10)?

Is this behavior that is commended or commanded (Acts 4:36-5:4; 20:7; 1 Cor. 16:2)?

Specific application is not required from every passage at every moment.

Indirect Application

Don’t discard a passage just because it isn’t directly applicable (2 Tim. 3:16-17).

Sometimes the indirect application is the point (1 Cor. 9:9-10).

Firm conclusions can be established from very indirect paths (Matt. 22:31-32).

Application need not be binding to be valuable (Jer. 31).

Conclusion

All of this is written so that you may know God and how to please Him and to be like Him.

I know it can seem overwhelming at times, but most things that you are unfamiliar with seem distant and difficult.

God has not put His word in heaven that you should say who will go up and get it nor down in Sheol, but it is very near you. Come and see.