For this is what the Sovereign LORD says: I myself will search for my sheep and look after them. As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so will I look after my sheep. I will rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness. Ezekiel 34: 11-12


Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time. 1 Peter 5:6

METHODS TO STUDY THE BIBLE

Before beginning Bible study, a prayer should be made asking God for guidance and understanding of His Word. Also, end your reading session with a prayer.

There is no one correct method for studying the Bible and each aspect of the Bible is important. We should read the Bible with an open mind, with our heart and faith dedicated to God. We should not lean on our own understanding but instead trust God (Proverbs 3:5).

Sometimes when we read the Bible, we encounter passages that are hard to understand or may even appear to contradict each other. The Bible tells a complex series of events that includes a rich amount of information and a history that sweeps through eons. We need to trust that as we read God will help us to grow in our understanding of His Word, all you need to do is ask for his spirit to be with you as you read.

You can try one of the following methods for studying the Bible:

1. Read both Old and New Testament alternately.
A. Read both the Old Testament and the New Testament alternately from beginning to end. To start, read for one hour from the beginning of Genesis, then read for an hour from the New Testament starting with Matthew. Your goal is to read the Bible at an easy pace that is comfortable for you. If two hours total is too much time per reading session, reduce the time.
B. Choose two book markers and place them where you left off in the Old and the New Testament.
C. The goal is to read with understanding; rather than to complete an assigned number of passages per reading session.

2. Read the Bible by topic or event.
A. Refer to the list of suggested topics and events. Explore them systematically by reading the Bible passages cited.
B. This method helps you gain familiarity with major themes, events, and personages of the Bible.
C. The method helps you to connect with the Bible story by relating topics to your daily life and spiritual journey.

3. If you are a new student of the Bible, you should consider reading the passages that are some of the most cherished and familiar traditionally. See the list of these passages from the Old and New Testament and read them from beginning to end.
A. This method allows you to reacquaint yourself with passages that you probably studied or heard about when you were growing up.
B. It helps connect you with the basics of the Bible and Christian tradition as a basis for further Bible study.

4. Read the Bible from the beginning of the Old Testament to the end of the New Testament.
A. Choose a specific number of passages that you will complete during each reading session.
B. This method allows you to experience the Bible story as it unfolds through time.
C. This method also helps you to apply discipline to your reading experience.

Whatever method you choose, it is a good idea to use bookmarks to locate where you are in your Bible studies. You should also keep a journal of your studies. This can include notes on passages you wish to study further, or questions you find yourself asking. Then cross reference your questions through the available Concordia. You can keep a chart of your reading progress at the beginning of your journal.