Multiply III:3 - Studying Logically

This is the final week before we begin our journey through the overarching narrative of the Bible.  This week's chapter exhorts us to consider how we read and study the Bible.  Of note, Francis Chan points out that this includes taking the Bible at face value instead of searching for deeper, hidden truths, and paying close attention to the context in which a particular Scripture is written.

Next week, the real adventure begins, but this week's discussion should be no less engaging!

Hope to see you there!

Love in Christ,
Pastor Joe

Part III - How to Study the Bible: Studying Logically

1. Think about the way you tend to study the Bible. Would you say that you make an effort to seek out what the Bible is actually saying? Do you pay attention to the context? If so, how has this helped you? If not, how do you think this might change the way you read the Bible?
2. In your own words, why is it important to distinguish between interpretation and application?
3. In your own words, why is it important to look for the plain meaning of each passage rather than seeking out a deeper meaning?
4. Would you say that your study of the Bible is focused on finding the plain meaning of each passage? Why or why not?
5. Do you have a tendency to interpret the Bible allegorically or figuratively? If so, why do you think you tend to do this?
6. In your own words, explain why paying attention to the grammatical and historical context is important. How should these concepts shape your study of the Bible?
7. What would it mean for you to read the Bible with an awareness of your own baggage and a willingness to get rid of those assumptions for the sake of understanding God’s truth more clearly?
8. In light of what you have thought through in this session, how do you need to change your approach to reading and studying the Bible?

Disclaimer: These questions have been drawn from Francis Chan’s book “Multiply: Disciples Making Disciples,” and are posted here for further reflection and study in conjunction with the full text of the book found at MultiplyMovement.com.

Multiply III:2 - Studying the Bible Prayerfully and Obediently

This week's reading invites us to take some time to consider not only how we approach the Bible, but our attitudes in doing so.  Is it a joy, or is it a burden?  Do we approach it from a perspective of history, or from a perspective of expectancy?  Are we putting what we read into practice, and even more importantly, are we letting it transform our hearts and minds as we encounter the living God through its pages?

Fall in love with the Word all over again!

Love in Christ,
Pastor Joe

Part III - How to Study the Bible: Studying the Bible Prayerfully and Obediently

1. Describe your experience with studying the Bible. What approaches have you tried? What has been effective? What has been ineffective? What have you learned in the process?
2. What does it look like to take joy in reading the Bible? Have you ever experienced this? If so, what is it like? If not, why do you think you’ve never enjoyed the Bible?
3. Read through Psalm 119. What do you find striking, challenging, or encouraging?
4. In practical terms, what does it mean to study the Bible prayerfully? What can you do to build prayer and dependence on God into your study of the Bible?
5. Take a minute to think through the commands that you know God wants us all to be doing (for example, loving the people around you, forgiving others, praying, etc.). Write down a handful of these things below.
6. Take a minute to examine your life in light of what you already know about the Bible. If you find that you haven’t been applying biblical truth to your life, then what changes do you need to make to the way you study the Bible?
7. In your own words, explain what it means to study the Bible with faith. Do you see this playing out in your life? How so?
8. Take a minute to consider everything you’ve thought through in this session. What changes do you need to make in the way you study the Bible?
9. Spend some time in prayer. Ask God to give you a heart for His Word. Ask Him to help you approach His Word devotionally and obediently.

Disclaimer: These questions have been drawn from Francis Chan’s book “Multiply: Disciples Making Disciples,” and are posted here for further reflection and study in conjunction with the full text of the book found at MultiplyMovement.com.