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What Is Bible Study?
So, what is Bible study? What does it look like? Is it just casually reading the Bible? Or is it much more? Let's investigate it a little further.
Answering the Question
For some of us, Bible study may feel mysterious or even intimidating. We hear the phrase tossed around in sermons and small groups. Maybe we’re not always sure what it actually means. Is it a scholarly pursuit reserved for pastors and theologians? Or is it something we can and should do?
Bible study is for those of us who follow Jesus. It’s not about having all the answers. It’s about showing up with a heart that’s ready to listen.
Maybe you’re new to Scripture. Or perhaps you have walked with God for decades. Whatever the case, studying the Bible is one of the most powerful ways to grow closer to God.
What Is Bible Study—Really?
So let's cut to the heart of the matter. What is Bible study, really? If we don't know what it is, how can we do it?
Bible study is the intentional, prayerful exploration of God’s Word. It’s not just reading. It’s engaging. It’s asking questions, noticing patterns, digging into context, and listening for the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
It's noting parallels and writing down observations. It's applying it and living it. It’s where Scripture moves from the page, through the mind, to the heart.
With that in mind, we need to be careful when we define something as important as studying God's Word. If we're not careful, Bible study could turn into something we simply do for spiritual exercise. It becomes no more than legalistic bodybuilding.
But true Bible study isn't just a spiritual discipline. It’s a relational invitation. Sure, it takes discipline to keep at it. Effort even. But that isn't the point.
Bible study helps us know God’s character, understand His promises, and discern His will. That's why it's so important. It brings us closer to the Almighty. To our God. To our Father.
The Daily Discipline of Study
With that, let's discuss the technical side of Bible study. There is discipline involved. Otherwise, we would never study God's Word.
We don't want our method to outstrip our desire. At the same time, we should put a good deal of effort into studying God's Word.
Keeping calendars of when we study. Taking notes of what we observe. Applying it and living it. These are all aspects of good Bible study method.
There are many methods of Bible study out there. We'll discuss two. If you want to learn what the SOAP method of Bible study is, click this link.
Personally, I'm not a big fan of the SOAP model. It carries all the elements of good Bible study. In my mind, it falls short just a little bit.
That's why I follow a slightly different acronym. I call it the PEEL method. I think of this method as peeling away the mystery of God's Word to reveal its beautiful simplicity.
If you'd like to take a look at the PEEL method of Bible study, click this link.
Why Bible Study Matters
So you may be wondering why all this matters? I mean, can't I just read it and go on with my day?"
That's a great question. Let's investigate a little more.
The Word of God is clear. Bible study renews the mind. Romans 12:2 calls us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds, and Scripture is the tool God uses to do that. It strengthens our faith (Romans 10:17), equips us for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16–17), and lights our path (Psalm 119:105).
Although simply reading the text may accomplish this, deep study goes further. It allows the Holy Spirit to use the intimate details of the text to change us. The deeper we go, the deeper the Holy Spirit goes in breaking down those walls that hold us back.
But this doesn't mean it's just an exchange of information. It leads to transformation. Bible study deepens our relationship with God. It’s how we learn His voice, His heart, and His ways. It’s where we find:
Comfort in grief.
Wisdom in confusion.
Courage in uncertainty.
When we study the Bible, we’re not just learning. We connect with God. We’re stepping into a conversation that began long before us and will continue long after. And in that space, God speaks.
A Final Word of Encouragement
So what is Bible study? It's about taking the first step toward a deeper, richer walk with God. This isn't about perfection. This is about growing closer to Christ, in the power of the Spirit, to the glory of God.
God honors the heart that seeks Him, even in small, quiet moments.
So open your Bible. Ask questions. Listen. Let Scripture speak into your life, one verse at a time.
Links Mentioned on This Page
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