Lesson ▪ 1998 Tags: Bible study Excerpted from “Just a Closer Walk with Thee”: Spiritual Disciplines for Devotional Vitality Related Resources: Bridging the Gap: Developing Tools for Better Bible Understanding ▪ The Discipline of Bible Assimilation: Topical Study Flexibility Is the Key to Freshness It is vital that we not practice the disciplines in the spirit of legalism, out of a sense of duty. Rather, discipline should be a loving, submissive response to the grace of God in our lives. “The Spiritual Disciplines are intended for our good. They are meant to bring the abundance of God into our lives. It is possible, however, to turn them into another set of soul-killing laws. Law-bound Disciplines breathe death” (Foster 9). Disciplines practiced as laws place a stranglehold on our spiritual growth. “Thy testimonies also [are] my delight [and] my counselors” (Ps 119.24). “Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I
shall observe it with [my] whole heart” (Ps 119.34). Insights
Inductive Bible Study
The inductive method of Bible study, as taught by various authors (e.g., Finzel, Hendricks, Jensen), consists primarily of three stages: observation, interpretation, and application. If you practice this approach to Scripture, you are sure to gain valuable spiritual knowledge. Approaching the Bible methodically—and with the inductive method in particular—will help you to ground your Christian faith squarely in what the Bible teaches rather than what you may have heard from other Christians. ExerciseDemonstrate the inductive method by showing how it applies
to a well known Scripture passage (e.g., Ps 1). Further ReadingFinzel, Hans, and Patricia H. Picardi. Observe, Interpret, Apply. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1994. Foster, Richard J. “The Discipline of Study.” Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth. Rev. ed. New York: HarperSanFrancisco, 1988. 62-76. Hendricks, Howard G., and William D. Hendricks. Living by the Book. Chicago: Moody, 1991. Hughes, R. Kent. “Discipline of Mind.” Disciplines of a Godly Man. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 1991. 71-80. Jensen, Irving L. Independent Bible Study: Using the Analytical Chart and the Inductive Method. Moody paperback ed. Chicago: Moody, 1963. LaHaye, Tim. How to Study the Bible for Yourself. Eugene, OR: Harvest House, 1976. |
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