How to Study the Bible: A Practical Guide

To get to the treasure of the Bible, you've got to do some digging.All believers are students of the Bible. We can and must develop our skills in digging into the true meaning of Scripture. Then we will get the treasure. In this book you will learn how to... choose which translation(s) you use observe the facts understand the flow of meaning of a biblical book develop your biblical vocabulary study a topic in the Bible study a Bible passage use the basic skills of Bible interpretation apply the truths of Scripture to your life recognize false teaching and much more... The Bible has changed history, shaped civilizations, given hope to hundreds of millions of people. Its descriptions of truth give us a reliable map for the paths of our lives, leading us to blessings and warning us away from destruction. Its message of grace and love heals us and guides us into authentic relationship with God.ABOUT THE AUTHORMel Lawrenz trains an international network of Christian leaders, ministry pioneers, and thought-leaders. He served as senior pastor of Elmbrook Church in Brookfield, Wisconsin, for ten years, having succeeded Stuart Briscoe, and now serves as Elmbrook's minister at large. He has a Ph.D. in the history of Christian thought (Marquette University) and is on the adjunct faculty of Trinity International University. He has authored or co-authored 18 books.____________READERS' COMMENTS ABOUT HOW TO UNDERSTAND THE BIBLE: A SIMPLE GUIDE (WordWay, 2014)"Clear, easy to read, great explanations... and in everyday language. It provides a 'big picture' of the Bible and how I can understand it better. It's a resource I'll refer to quite often... and encourage others to also. This is a MUST READ!""Rarely have I seen a book take something as misunderstood as the Bible and make it so simple to understand. It is clear, concise, interesting and well written. It's gave me both an explanation of all aspects of the Bible and the encouragement to approach God's word with confidence.""This is a GREAT resource for ANYONE. If you are new to reading the Bible or if you've been reading it for years ... there's good information in this book for you."CHAPTERSPart I. Being a Student of Scripture1. It's All About Zeal2. Which Bible?3. How Scripture Examines Us4. Facts and Faith5. Observation6. Curiosity7. Understanding the Intent of the Biblical AuthorsPart II. The Ways of Studying the Bible8. The Many Genres of Scripture9. Approaching a Biblical Book10. Understanding the Flow of Meaning of a Biblical Book11. Studying a Particular Bible Passage12. The Meaning of Specific Words in the Bible13. Do We Need to Know Hebrew and Greek?14. Developing Our Biblical Vocabulary15. Two Approaches: Discovery and Questions16. How to Do a Topical Study of Scripture17. Using Bible Commentaries18. Studying a Biblical CharacterPart III. Interpreting and Applying the Bible19. The Basics of Bible Interpretation20. Let Scripture Interpret Scripture21. Illumination and the Study of Scripture22. One Meaning, Many Applications23. The Indwelling Word24. Avoiding Mistakes in the Application of Scripture25. Devotional Reflection26. How to Recognize False Teaching27. We Are in This Together28. Conviction and Commitment