Observation – First Part of In-Depth Bible Study

I am examing the gospel of Mark  for a ladies study we’ll have next year. I love starting new books, don’t you?

I thought I’d share how I approach a new study. There are 3 parts to my studying: observation, interpretation ,and finally, application.

Observation

First, I like to read through the book several times. My intent is to get the flow of the story. After a week of doing this, I find (and record) major book-wide themes, words to look up, and new things I hadn’t noticed before. I try to read as large a chunk as possible, in each sitting, like I would a novel.

Secondly, I then thoughfully read each chapter several times. After a week of reading only one chapter (or smaller portion of Scripture) each day, I come up with book-wide themes, words to look up and new things I hadn’t noticed before.  I put all these thoughts into a journal.

Thirdly, towards the end of the week, I write down any other observations I have. I try to record at least 20 things.

• Significant points
• Record the 4 W’s of who, what, when, where
• Summarize the main content in my own words
• Anything else God brings to mind

I don’t do research at this point. I am still recording my observations.

Fourthy, I record the details of the 4 W’s.

• Who – Audience, writer, people named
• What – Events and primary principles
• When – Time period it was written
• Where – Geography and location of author, audience and action in the book. Look out those maps!

Since most of the above is academic “work,” I make sure I spend some time just being in God’s Presence:

• Praising God for His eternal Truths
• Singing songs that celebrate who He is
• Being quiet

That’s the end of my observation phase of Bible study.