Introduction
Learning how to study the Bible is important, but we must also put what we learn into practice. The skills we have developed help us understand Scripture carefully, recognise its message, and avoid building our beliefs on assumptions.
Applying the Bible begins with understanding what a passage teaches. We should not take a verse out of context and apply it in a way that changes its meaning. Instead, we should understand the message first and then consider how it relates to our lives.
In this lesson, we will learn how to use our Bible study skills in everyday situations.
1. Scripture Reading
James 1:22 (KJV)
“But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.”
2 Timothy 3:16–17 (KJV)
“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”
2. Understanding the Teaching
A. Begin with understanding, not assumptions
When you read a Bible passage, first ask what it means in its context. Do not immediately assume that the first meaning that comes to mind is correct.
For example, if you read a promise in the Bible, examine who received the promise, what it concerned, and whether the passage gives any conditions.
Practical application: Before using a verse to advise someone, read the surrounding passage and make sure you understand its message.
B. Allow Scripture to correct your understanding
Sometimes, we discover that a belief we have held for years does not fully agree with what a passage teaches. When this happens, we should be willing to examine our belief again.
Second Timothy 3:16 explains that Scripture is useful for correction and instruction. This means we should approach God’s Word with a willingness to learn rather than simply searching for verses that support our existing opinions.
Practical application: When someone presents a biblical explanation that differs from yours, examine the Scriptures carefully before rejecting it.
C. Apply biblical instructions according to their meaning
When a passage gives an instruction, understand what it requires and how it relates to its context.
For example, Ephesians 4:32 teaches kindness, tenderheartedness, and forgiveness. We can put these instructions into practice by refusing to respond to every disagreement with bitterness or cruelty.
Practical application: When someone offends you, consider how you can respond with kindness and forgiveness rather than seeking revenge.
D. Distinguish between understanding a passage and making personal decisions
Not every personal decision is directly addressed in a specific Bible verse. We must avoid claiming that Scripture commands something when it does not.
For example, the Bible teaches honesty, wisdom, and faithfulness. When deciding which job to accept, you can use these principles while also considering your responsibilities, circumstances, and available information.
Practical application: Use biblical principles to guide your decisions, but do not invent a specific command or promise that the passage does not contain.
E. Share what you have learned faithfully
When teaching others, explain the passage according to its meaning. If you are uncertain about something, acknowledge that you need to study further.
You do not have to know the answer to every question before you can share what Scripture clearly teaches.
Practical application: When explaining a Bible verse to a friend, read it together, explain its context, and distinguish the passage’s message from your personal opinion.
3. Another Bible Example: Forgiveness in Daily Life
Colossians 3:13 (KJV)
“Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.”
Let us apply our Bible study skills to this verse.
- Context: Read Colossians 3:12–14 to see how forgiveness relates to kindness, humility, meekness, patience, and love.
- Type of writing: Colossians is a letter containing teaching and instructions for believers.
- Main message: Believers are instructed to bear with one another and forgive one another.
- Connection: The instruction refers to the forgiveness believers have received through Christ.
- Practical application: When a disagreement occurs, we can choose to respond with patience and forgiveness instead of allowing bitterness to control our response.
However, forgiveness does not mean pretending that wrongdoing never happened or that harmful behaviour should continue without appropriate boundaries. We should apply the passage faithfully without adding meanings that it does not state.
4. Practical Example
Imagine that you are leading a Bible discussion and someone asks what a particular verse means.
Instead of giving an immediate answer based only on what you have heard others say, you can:
- Read the verse and its surrounding passage.
- Identify the main message.
- Explain any important words or expressions.
- Compare other relevant Scriptures in context.
- Explain how the passage can be applied today.
- Admit when you need more time to study a difficult question.
This approach helps you grow in understanding and encourages others to examine the Bible for themselves.
Remember, the goal is not simply to quote many verses. It is to understand Scripture and communicate its message faithfully.
5. Remember
Bible study should lead to understanding and faithful application. Read Scripture in context, allow it to correct your understanding, apply its instructions according to their meaning, and share what it teaches without adding unsupported ideas.
You do not need to know everything at once. Continue learning, examining Scripture carefully, and growing in your understanding of God’s Word.