How to Study the Bible: A Simple Method That Works

Read the passage more than once, slowly. Before you decide what it means, notice what is actually there.

• Who is speaking, and who is listening?
• What happens, and what is repeated? Repeated words are often the key.
• Where and when does it take place?
• Connecting words like therefore, but, so that and because show how the ideas fit together.

Acts 17:11 praises the Bereans because they “received the word with all readiness of mind, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.” Observation is that kind of careful examining.

A passage can’t mean something its first readers could never have understood. Start with what the writer meant to say to them.

Read in context

Read the verses before and after, then the whole chapter, and keep in mind the purpose of the whole book. Many confusing verses become clear once you see the paragraph around them.

Know the genre

The Bible contains history, law, poetry, wisdom, prophecy, gospels, letters and apocalyptic writing. Poetry like the Psalms uses images and parallel lines. Proverbs are wise general patterns, not promises for every case. Letters build their arguments step by step. Reading each kind of writing as what it is keeps you from misreading it.

Learn the background

Knowing the history, places and customs behind a passage helps a lot. That includes who the Samaritans were, what a denarius was worth, and why a kinsman-redeemer mattered. Study notes, Bible dictionaries and maps exist for this.

Let Scripture explain Scripture

Use cross-references to compare a passage with others on the same subject. A clear passage often sheds light on a harder one.

Once you understand the passage, ask how it applies to your life. Is there a truth about God to believe, a promise to trust, a command to obey or a sin to turn from? Is there an example to follow, or one to avoid? Keep it specific: one clear step is better than a vague good intention.

Second Timothy 3:16 says, “Every Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness.” The aim of study is not just knowing more. It is being changed by what you read.

Pick a short passage, such as the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11–32). Read it twice and write down three things you observe. Then read the whole chapter. Who was Jesus talking to (Luke 15:1–2), and why does that matter? End with one sentence about how it applies to you.

In Lampstead, tap “Study this chapter” in any chapter to see the people, places, history and culture behind the passage. Tap a verse to highlight it or add a note. You can also try our free study pages, such as the prodigal son and who the Samaritans were.

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