Whether you're a seasoned Bible reader or just starting your journey, this guide will provide you with essential tools and methods to enrich your understanding of God's Word.
The Church: An Assembly of Believers
The term "church" comes from the Greek word ecclesia, which means "assembly" or "gathering." The church is not confined to a building; it is everywhere believers gather to worship and study God's Word. This understanding sets the stage for our Bible study, reminding us that we are part of a global community of faith.
The SOAP Method: A Simple Approach to Bible Study
One effective method for studying the Bible is the SOAP method, which stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer.
- Scripture: Read a passage of the Bible.
- Observation: Look for key details, such as who is involved, what is happening, and any significant words or phrases.
- Application: Consider how the passage applies to your life today.
- Prayer: Pray over the scripture, asking God to help you understand and apply it.
Understanding the Context
When studying the Bible, it's crucial to understand the context. This includes the cultural, historical, and geographical background of the passage. Ask questions like:
- Who wrote the text?
- Who was the intended audience?
- What is the larger context within the book or chapter?
Avoiding Eisegesis
Be mindful of eisegesis, which is the act of imposing your own interpretation onto the text. Instead, aim for exegesis, which seeks to understand the original meaning of the passage.
Bible Translations
Choose a Bible translation that you can easily understand. Whether it's the NIV, NLT, or another version, the key is to find one that speaks to you clearly.
Join Us for Weekly Bible Study
We invite you to join our weekly Bible study sessions every Wednesday at 7 PM. You can attend in person at the church or join us via Zoom. These sessions are a wonderful opportunity to dive deeper into God's Word, ask questions, and grow in your faith alongside fellow believers.
Zoom Link: Wednesdays except First Wednesdays when we have Encounter Night at the church
Location: Mosaic Church, 5550 Oakdale Road, Mableton
We look forward to studying God's Word with you and growing together in faith. If you have any questions or need further information, please don't hesitate to reach out.