First Steps In Bible Study

Have you ever wished you that you had a good grasp of the Scriptures? Knowledge about the Scriptures, and in the Scriptures, is something that is within the realm of possibility for anyone who is willing to make a little effort. Like any realm of knowledge, it will take some time, a serious approach, and a daily commitment.

Almost anyone can gain from daily personal Bible study. We say almost anyone because there are some who study the Bible with the wrong purpose in mind, they are not looking for further insight into this revelation of God, but are looking for "supposed flaws" that will free them from following it faithfully.

What we hope to do in this short article is set before you a plan that will encourage you to engage in personal Bible study.

1. Choose what time of the day is best for you. Some people are night people, others are morning people. Pick a time that you can set aside for this purpose daily. You only need five minutes to begin with.
2. Begin with prayer. Offer thanks to God for His bountiful blessings, for the promises through His Son, and for the blessed privilege of Bible study. Ask for wisdom (the ability to properly apply your knowledge, James 1:5) in your study and in your life. As a Christian you have the right to ask this in Jesus name or authority (John 16:23,24, Colossians 3:17).
3. Find a comfortable place, preferably your kitchen table, or perhaps a desk in the den. You want a place with good lighting, little distraction, and an area where you can lay your Bible open before you and also have a notebook close at hand.
4. Begin with one of the gospels. I usually encourage new Bible students to begin with Mark's gospel. It is the shortest on one hand, and also moves fairly rapidly through the events in the earth-life of Jesus Christ.
5. Read through the first chapter quickly. Now, read it again, but this time look for words that seem to appear and reappear in the text. Mark down in your notebook any words that you do not know the meaning of. You can check in a good Bible dictionary or concordance to find out what they mean. If you are still not clear, contact someone who has a more exhaustive library and they will be able to help you.
6. Identify in your notes the main characters in this portion of Scripture. List significant happenings and events in this chapter.
7. Your five minutes is up. Close with prayer and head off to the workplace with something great to think about.