Engaging with Scripture: Practical Tools for Application
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone! Today, we are diving into the second and final week of our series on "How to Read the Bible." Our goal is to provide practical tools to help us engage deeply with God's Word. Last week, we discussed three key points: choosing a translation you understand, recognizing the importance of context, and reading larger chunks of Scripture rather than isolated sentences. This week, we will build on these principles by focusing on the application of Scripture in our daily lives.
We began by examining Matthew 7, where Jesus emphasizes the importance of not just hearing His teachings but also putting them into practice. He compares those who apply His words to a wise person building a house on solid rock, while those who don't are like a foolish person building on sand. This theme of application is echoed in the Great Commission (Matthew 28), where Jesus instructs His disciples to teach others to obey His commands, not just to share the good news.
Paul's letters, particularly 2 Timothy 3, also stress the importance of Scripture in teaching, correcting, and equipping us for good works. The Bible is not just a book to be read but a guide to be lived out. To help us apply Scripture, we introduced the SOAP method: Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. We practiced this method using Luke 6, where Jesus challenges the Pharisees' legalism and demonstrates His authority over the Sabbath.
For those days when application seems difficult, we introduced another tool: the SPECK method. This acronym stands for Sin to avoid, Promise to claim, Example to follow, Command to obey, and Knowledge about God. These questions can help us draw practical insights from any passage of Scripture.
Ultimately, the goal is to make reading and applying God's Word a daily rhythm in our lives. Whether through a physical Bible or a digital one, the important thing is to engage with Scripture consistently. This practice will transform our lives, helping us to grow in our relationship with God and to live out His teachings.
### Key Takeaways
1. Choose a Translation You Understand: It's crucial to pick a Bible translation that you can easily comprehend. The goal is to understand God's Word, not to get lost in archaic language. A translation that speaks to you will make your reading more meaningful and impactful. [20:01]
2. Context is Key: Understanding the context of a passage is essential for grasping its true meaning. Many books in the New Testament were written as letters, and reading them in larger chunks helps us see the bigger picture. This approach prevents us from misinterpreting isolated verses. [21:10]
3. Application is Essential: Jesus emphasizes that merely hearing His words is not enough; we must also put them into practice. This principle is echoed throughout the Bible, including in the Great Commission and Paul's letters. Applying Scripture transforms us and aligns our lives with God's will. [24:01]
4. Use Practical Tools Like SOAP and SPECK: The SOAP method (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer) and the SPECK method (Sin to avoid, Promise to claim, Example to follow, Command to obey, Knowledge about God) are practical tools to help us engage deeply with Scripture. These methods guide us in drawing meaningful insights and applying them to our lives. [28:40]
5. Make Bible Reading a Daily Rhythm: Consistency is key in our spiritual growth. Whether through a physical Bible or a digital one, find a rhythm that works for you. Even if you fall out of routine, don't let that discourage you. The important thing is to make engaging with God's Word a daily habit. [46:41]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[19:09] - Introduction to Series
[20:01] - Recap of Last Week
[21:10] - Importance of Context
[22:17] - Application of Jesus' Teachings
[23:05] - The Great Commission
[24:01] - Paul's Letters and Application
[24:48] - 2 Timothy 3:16-17
[25:41] - Importance of Applying Scripture
[26:27] - Practical Examples from James
[28:04] - Challenges in Application
[28:40] - Introduction to SOAP Method
[29:36] - Reading Luke 6
[32:28] - Observations from Luke 6
[33:11] - Application Insights
[36:47] - Introduction to SPECK Method
[41:56] - Knowing God Through Scripture
[44:07] - Importance of Daily Rhythm
[46:41] - Practical Tips for Consistency
[48:05] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 7:24-27 - "Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock. But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn’t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash."
2. Matthew 28:18-20 - "Jesus came and told his disciples, 'I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.'"
3. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 - "All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work."
### Observation Questions
1. What analogy does Jesus use in Matthew 7 to describe those who hear and apply His teachings versus those who do not? ([21:10])
2. According to Matthew 28, what are the two main tasks Jesus gives to His disciples in the Great Commission? ([23:05])
3. In 2 Timothy 3, what are the four purposes of Scripture as outlined by Paul? ([24:48])
4. What are the two practical methods introduced in the sermon to help apply Scripture to our lives? ([28:40])
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Jesus emphasize the importance of applying His teachings in Matthew 7? How does this relate to the concept of building a house on rock versus sand? ([22:17])
2. How does the Great Commission in Matthew 28 expand the role of a disciple beyond just sharing the good news? What does it mean to teach others to obey Jesus' commands? ([24:01])
3. In what ways does 2 Timothy 3:16-17 suggest that Scripture is more than just a book to be read? How does it function as a tool for teaching, correcting, and equipping? ([25:41])
4. How can the SOAP and SPECK methods help someone who struggles with applying Scripture in their daily life? ([28:40])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your current Bible reading habits. Do you read in larger chunks or isolated sentences? How can you adjust your reading to better understand the context? ([20:01])
2. Think about a recent teaching of Jesus that you have heard. Have you put it into practice? If not, what steps can you take to start applying it in your life? ([22:17])
3. The Great Commission calls us to make disciples and teach them to obey Jesus' commands. Identify one person in your life you can disciple. What practical steps can you take to teach them about Jesus' teachings? ([24:01])
4. Using the SOAP method, choose a passage from your recent Bible reading. Write down your observations and how you can apply it to your life. Share your findings with the group. ([28:40])
5. When was the last time you used a practical tool like SOAP or SPECK to study the Bible? If you haven't, try using one of these methods this week and share your experience with the group. ([28:40])
6. Consistency in Bible reading is crucial for spiritual growth. What is one specific change you can make to ensure you engage with Scripture daily? ([46:41])
7. Identify a promise from God in Scripture that you can claim in your current life situation. How does this promise encourage you, and how can you hold onto it this week? ([37:56])
Devotional
Day 1: Choose a Translation You Understand
Understanding God's Word is essential for spiritual growth. Choosing a Bible translation that you can easily comprehend is crucial. The goal is to engage deeply with Scripture, not to get lost in archaic language. A translation that speaks to you will make your reading more meaningful and impactful. When you understand the words, you can better grasp the message and apply it to your life. This approach helps you to connect with God on a deeper level and allows His Word to transform you from the inside out. [20:01]
Bible Passage:
"For if the bugle gives an indistinct sound, who will get ready for battle? So with yourselves, if with your tongue you utter speech that is not intelligible, how will anyone know what is said? For you will be speaking into the air." (1 Corinthians 14:8-9, ESV)
Reflection:
Think about the Bible translation you currently use. Does it help you understand God's Word clearly? If not, what steps can you take today to find a translation that speaks to you more effectively?
Day 2: Context is Key
Understanding the context of a passage is essential for grasping its true meaning. Many books in the New Testament were written as letters, and reading them in larger chunks helps us see the bigger picture. This approach prevents us from misinterpreting isolated verses. By understanding the historical, cultural, and literary context, we can better understand what the original authors intended to convey. This deeper understanding allows us to apply the teachings more accurately to our lives. [21:10]
Bible Passage:
"Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15, ESV)
Reflection:
Think of a Bible passage you have read recently. Have you considered its context? How can understanding the context of this passage change your interpretation and application of it today?
Day 3: Application is Essential
Jesus emphasizes that merely hearing His words is not enough; we must also put them into practice. This principle is echoed throughout the Bible, including in the Great Commission and Paul's letters. Applying Scripture transforms us and aligns our lives with God's will. When we live out God's Word, we become like the wise person who built their house on solid rock. This foundation helps us withstand life's challenges and grow in our faith. [24:01]
Bible Passage:
"But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror." (James 1:22-23, ESV)
Reflection:
Reflect on a specific teaching of Jesus that you have heard but not yet applied. What practical steps can you take today to start living out this teaching in your daily life?
Day 4: Use Practical Tools Like SOAP and SPECK
The SOAP method (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer) and the SPECK method (Sin to avoid, Promise to claim, Example to follow, Command to obey, Knowledge about God) are practical tools to help us engage deeply with Scripture. These methods guide us in drawing meaningful insights and applying them to our lives. By using these tools, we can systematically study the Bible and ensure that we are not just reading but also understanding and applying God's Word. [28:40]
Bible Passage:
"All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16-17, ESV)
Reflection:
Choose a passage of Scripture and apply the SOAP or SPECK method to it. What new insights do you gain, and how can you apply these insights to your life today?
Day 5: Make Bible Reading a Daily Rhythm
Consistency is key in our spiritual growth. Whether through a physical Bible or a digital one, find a rhythm that works for you. Even if you fall out of routine, don't let that discourage you. The important thing is to make engaging with God's Word a daily habit. This practice will transform your life, helping you to grow in your relationship with God and to live out His teachings. [46:41]
Bible Passage:
"Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night." (Psalm 1:1-2, ESV)
Reflection:
What is one practical step you can take today to make Bible reading a consistent part of your daily routine? How can you ensure that this habit becomes a lasting part of your life?
Quotes
1. "We need to understand the context of what's being said so that we can understand what is being said. And then the last one, last week, was don't read the Bible one sentence at a time. Especially in the New Testament, many of the books of the Bible were originally written as letters. And so, we would never open up an email, read the first sentence, and then close it out and try again a week later, right? For sentence two." [20:01] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "If you listen to my teaching, if you listen to the things that I have for you, and then you do nothing about it, you don't obey it, you don't change anything in your life because of my teaching, you're missing it. You're foolish, even. That you would listen to my words and then not do anything about them? You need to build your house on the rock. You need to listen to my teachings and then engage with them. You need to listen to my teachings and then put them into practice." [22:17] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Jesus invites us into the mission to share this. To share this good news with the entire world. But the mission isn't just to tell them that one thing. It's to teach them the commands, the things that Jesus taught his disciples and teach them to obey them. Teach them to put them into practice, to live these out, to apply them." [24:01] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "All scripture is inspired by God. And it's useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work." [24:48] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "As much as we believe that these teachings, this is the word of God, we so often fail to take the teachings and apply them into our day-to-day lives. That we would not just read them, but that we would apply, that it would change who we are, that it would change how we act and how we treat those around us. Guys, as we are reading the Bible, application is absolutely essential. It's crucial." [25:41] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "The New Testament's just, it's the part of the Bible that happens from Jesus' birth on, okay? And I would encourage people to read that because it's stories about Jesus. It's his teachings. It's his life. And then it's really practical things from his church and guidance from church leaders. And so it is a very practical part of scripture to read and then put into practice. I would also encourage you to read it first because it's where Jesus shows up and he's kind of a big deal." [27:29] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "Is there a promise to be claimed? Because our God always think about how incredible this is. Our God always keeps his promises and scripture is full of promises from God, full of them. And so many of them, he's already fulfilled. They've already taken place. He already fulfilled so many of his promises through what Jesus did for us on the cross. But there are so many more promises in scripture promises that apply to our lives apply to what we are going through." [37:56] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "We have access to the word of God. We talked last week about the fact that even in our country today, that in so many ways has become post-Christian, recent surveys show that still 70% of people in our country believe that this is the inspired word. Right? Word of God. And I know that in this room, the percentage is higher than that, right? That, that you believe that this is the inspired word of God." [40:39] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "It is really important for us to look at how we need to apply it and then pray to God to help us in that, right? Jesus told us that, that he was going to go back to heaven so that he could send us a helper. We have the Holy spirit to help us as we seek to follow God. And so pray for that help, pray for the spirit to move in your life and, and help you grow in those areas that you're seeing. You need to apply God's word into your life." [44:07] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "This gift that is the word of God will absolutely transform your life. It is everything it claims to be. It is not just a book. It is the word of God. And it is so useful. It is so powerful. It is so transformative in our lives. So read it, read the Bible." [48:05] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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