No. 2: What is Bible Study?
Bible Study is a personal encounter with the revealed Word of God through reading, study, prayer and reflection. With ongoing study we come to a deeper understanding of revelation, of God’s plan of salvation and of the meaning of our call to Christian living. Bible Study enhances our faith and increases our love both for God and for one another. Ideally this study is conducted in a group setting. When this is not feasible, individuals may wish to spend time alone with the Sacred Word.How Can I Begin to Approach Bible Study?
- Set aside time each day for this encounter with Christ.
- Choose a reading from the day’s liturgy or one of the Bible’s 73 books. If a book is selected it is best to start at the beginning and continue to completion.
- Begin with a short prayer invoking assistance from the Holy Spirit. It is the same Spirit who inspired the writing of the Word.
- Read a passage through until there is a natural break or if you feel the need to stop and ponder.
- As this is a “study,” it is recommended that all footnotes be read as well. This will provide additional background information and will enhance your understanding of the passage or event.
- Spend time pondering the passage, observing its context, its characters, and its tone.
- Allow time to listen quietly for a deepening of its meaning and message.
- Work slowly through a book; there is no timetable for completing an encounter with mystery.
- Read with expectation. Expect intimacy and understanding, with empty hands and hearts, with an interior silence, with no agenda, with humility.
Next Week: Prayerful Approaches to Bible Study
