Lesson 2

Fundamentals of the Faith : Fundamentals of the Faith Lesson 2 How to Know the Bible


Why Study the Bible? : Why Study the Bible? Basis for Christian living To prepare for service Defend our faith A good servant spends time in the word


Why Study the Bible? : Why Study the Bible? To sanctify our lives God’s word will set us apart for holiness We are exhorted to be holy It is God’s will


Why Study the Bible? : Why Study the Bible? To know God deeper We find Christ in the Scriptures We discover the knowledge of God We lead others to God


Five Ways to Know the Bible : Hear (5% retention) Public reading Preaching Mass Media WARNING! Use discernment Read (10-15% retention) How? What? 88 hours at conversation pace Study (35% retention) More to follow Five Ways to Know the Bible


Five Ways to Know the Bible : Five Ways to Know the Bible Memorize(100% retention) Memory verse exercise (2 Ti 2:15) 2Ti 2:15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. - How do we become approved by God? - Is it easy to handle the word of God accurately? - NB: It is both God’s command & will


Bible Study Requires Diligence : Bible Study Requires Diligence Meditate Ponder, prayerfully consider, focused on understanding & application, changing our lives Meditation verse exercise (Ro 10:9) (Ro 10:9) That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.


Principles of Biblical Interpretation : Principles of Biblical Interpretation Hermeneutics The science (and art) of Biblical interpretation Scripture is sufficient, spiritually informed, plenary inspired Rules Literal interpretation is primary (i.e., no need to look for hidden meanings) Scripture interprets scripture (i.e., the part is seen through the whole) Scripture documents progressive revelation Meaning of passage is based on the culture, language, words, grammar, syntax, and context Exegesis vs. Eisogesis


Approach for Bible Study : Approach for Bible Study Prepare Observe Who? What? How? Where? When? Key words & subjects; verb tenses Interpret What does it mean? Why is it here? How does it fit? There is only one correct interpretation What does it not mean? Parallel Passages & Cross References Bible study aids Apply Our response to the Word of God


Our Response to the Word of God : Our Response to the Word of God Is there a(n)… Sin to forsake? Promise to claim? Example to follow? Command to obey? Stumbling block to avoid?


Bible Study in Action : Bible Study in Action Homework for Lesson 2