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Teaching Tips October 2010 |
There are numerous ways to approach Bible study. Just about every approach suggests using reference tools to get the most out of your studies. This list includes essential helps that should be included in any student’s library.
1. Readable Bible Version Find a translation that you are comfortable with, making sure that it’s easy to read and understand. The reading grade level varies with each translation, although most are based on a 7th grade reading level or above. A translation is based on the original languages in which the Bible was written. A paraphrase is not a direct translation, but a rewording using modern language. A paraphrase is more readable, but it may not be as accurate as a translation. 2. Bible Dictionary This type of dictionary is limited to words and phrases found in the Bible, but the definitions are more detailed than would be found in a standard dictionary. Each entry may include several explanations, definitions, scripture references, and examples of how the word is used throughout the Bible. Student Bible Dictionaries are available with fewer entries, yet are more readable for intermediate students. Examples are Holman’s QuickSource Bible Dictionary for students and Unger's Bible Dictionary for adults. 3. Topical Bible This resource is like an expanded index. It lists the topics found in the Bible alphabetically, including background information and scripture references. This way you can see what the entire Bible says about each topic. This is very helpful since you should study each passage in the context of the whole Bible. Nave’s Topical Bible is one example. 4. Concordance A concordance is a complete listing of every word that appears in the Bible. The list includes where the word is found, a portion of the sentence in which it appears, how many times the word appears, a pronunciation guide, and reference to the original language. This lets you find a scripture even when you can’t remember the whole verse. The complete listing lets you select parallel passages that can increase your understanding of the word’s meaning and usage. It can also provide helpful information for in-depth word studies using references to the original languages through the numbering system. By looking up the numbered word, you can see all the ways it is translated into English. Examples are Strong’s Concordance and Young’s Concordance. 5. Bible Handbook This resource contains an overview of each book of the Bible. It presents key information in a readable form by answering the key questions of Bible study: who, what, where, when, why, and how. It includes details such as the author, when it was written, to whom it was written, and for what purpose. It highlights the key events, persons, and themes in each book. Most handbooks include maps, charts, timelines, and outlines. This background information is helpful in understanding the book in context. It gives you a way to organize what you read, and know what to look for in your studies. Finally, it lets you see the specifics of any book in light of the entire revelation of the Bible. One example is Holman’s Bible Handbook. 6. Word Study Dictionary This is a key resource for in-depth word studies. It is similar to a Bible dictionary, but it gives much more information about the word from the original language. The Bible was originally written in Hebrew and Greek (as well as a few passages in Aramaic or Chaldean). These are very expressive languages that contain nuances of meaning that are often lost when translating into English. A word study dictionary sheds light on the full meaning of words that can increase your understanding of a passage. An example is Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words. 7. A Manners and Customs Book This is a key resource for understanding Bible times and the context in which the Bible was written. It gives details of everyday life such as clothing, food, climate, geography, government, religious rituals and traditions, work, travel, warfare, and society. These details often help to explain strange or unfamiliar references and cultural idioms. They are vital when trying to determine if a passage refers to a specific point in time or to a specific culture, or applies to every generation. Such a book can add “color and texture” to your study, and often uncovers unexpected insights. An example is Gower’s Manners and Customs of Bible Times. 8. Commentaries A commentary is a book about the Bible. It is written by scholars who offer comments and insights gleaned from intensive, focused study. In effect, they do the “heavy work” for you. Commentaries are available for the full Bible (arranged verse-by-verse), for a book of the Bible, or for key passages. They vary in terms of the amount of detail given, the type of information provided, emphasis on the original text, and comments about the application of the passage. A key point to remember is that the commentator is interpreting the passage in light of his or her own theology (liberal or conservative) or denominational background. This can influence the analysis, and may not coincide with your own perspective. If there is any doubt about the interpretation of a passage, the Bible itself must be your guide, not the opinions of men. However, few of us have the time to delve into the scriptures to the depth found in most commentaries, so the insights provided can be worthwhile. 9. Bible Studies A commentary focuses on the theology or interpretation of a Bible passage; a Bible study book focuses on the personal application of a passage to your life. The study can be based on a particular book of the Bible (such as 2 Timothy), on a theme (such as the purpose-driven life), or a topic (such as discipleship). These books tend to be more conversational in style, although some offer comprehension and application questions. They tend to be more “practical” rather than “academic.” Like commentaries, Bible study books are written from the author’s perspective, and reflect his or her own theology and denomination. They can be a good way to learn how to apply scripture to your life, as a good “role-model.” But since every person’s situation is unique, they can’t cover every possibility. 1037 Words To view more 'Teaching Tips' Articles please 'Log In' and visit the 'Achives' page. |
