bible study resources
Wednesday, 10 November 2010 18:10
getting into the word
Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly - Colossians 3:16
The most important thing is to read regularly. Don't worry about having to understand everything, as if the Bible is a puzzle to be solved. You are reading to get to know God better, not pass a comprehension test. Set aside a specific time each day to read: be realistic about your own habits and temptations, i.e. trade in one TV program, or read before logging onto the internet.
You don't have to set a time-table and you don't have to jump into the whole thing at once. For your first time, you can start with the New Testament and plan to read a chapter a day, several days a week. Look at your daily schedule and set aside a specific time so you get into the habit. Your goal is to simply be keep reading regularly. You will be pleased with the results!
Through the Bible in a Year
Reading through the Bible in a year may be easier than you think. You can devise your own schedule depending on the number of days a week you will read. There are 929 chapters in the Old Testament, and 260 in the New Testament. So, if you will read 5 days a week, divide the number of chapters by 260 (52 weeks x 5). Or, knowing you will skip during vacation, you might use a 50-week schedule.
Another approach is to use a Bible specifically arranged for daily reading. Some include a mix of Old and New Testament each day, while others are chronologically arranged, (i.e. the prophets inserted where they fit historically). These are all shelved at 220.51. My personal favorite is the Chronological Bible, which includes "narrated" sections summarizing and explaining the chapters.
Study the Bible for Yourself
Bible study guides are a good way to get started with personal Bible study. We have a collection of these for your use, including book studies and topical guides (see subject list at right). Notice the kinds of questions the various guides ask, and select one for your purposes. Writing your answers (not in the library book) forces you to think carefully.
For background help, look for the MacArthur Bible Handbook (220.7 MacARTHUR) which has excellent background information on each book of the Bible. Books on how to read and understand the Bible may explain how to read difficult parts like prophecy and poetry, as well interpretation and application.
How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth (220.6 FEE) is particularly helpful.
How to Study Your Bible (220.6 ARTHUR) explains specific Bible study methods.
Commentaries are valuable, but can become a crutch if your goal is to dig out the meaning for yourself. We have a variety of commentaries for both beginners and more advanced students. For Old Testament, see the shelves at 222-224, New Testament at 226-228. Look them over to see which fits your needs.
Memorize Scripture
Yes you can! The longer it takes you, the more you internalize it.
Mindful of the Truth (220.6 HAYDEN) very practical approach.
When I Don't Desire God (248.4 PIPER) Chapter 8, outlines a no-fail memory technique.