Inductive Bible Study Literacy & Evangelism Rev. Bob Biederman

Inductive adjective : characterized by the inference of general laws from particular instances.

Inductive Bible Study “observes Scripture directly in its context. It is the same way we go about reading a book or a personal letter. In this case, we begin with the Bible itself and learn how to dig into a passage to discover the facts. Then we relate and interpret those facts and finally apply them to our lives.” Marilyn Kunz & Catherine Schell

Deductive characterized by the inference of particular instances from a general law

Deductive Bible Study An example would be a topical study on a doctrine or subject. This can be a very helpful way to study Scripture. It starts with a doctrine and then looks up verses to prove it, i.e., it starts with a conclusion and then works backward.

Beware! This approach can be used to prove just about anything. The cults use this method with great effectiveness, quoting verses out of context while taking their teachings from non-biblical sources.

Howard Hendricks “Inductive study of the Bible is the best way to discover scriptural truth... There is no jewel more precious than that which you have mined yourself.”

Inductive Bible Study uses: Observation - what does the passage say? Interpretation - what does the passage mean? Application - what does the passage mean to me?

Observation What does the passage say? Look carefully at the context of the verses. “ WHAT WHERE WHEN HOW WHY WHO” to probe for details. Spend most of your time on careful observation. Avoid the temptation to jump into application without first digging into the text to see what it says.

Sherlock Holmes Good observation is the key to self-discovery. The difference between Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson is that the former was a careful observer. Dr. Watson, “I am baffled until you explain your process.” Holmes, “quite so, Dr. Watson, you see but you do not observe.”

Interpretation What does the passage mean? Remember the importance of context. Scripture always interprets Scripture. Is there any figurative language? Look for the author’s intended meaning.

Discover the author’s meaning There is one meaning in any passage of Scripture, that is the one intended by the author. However, there are many applications of the truth or principles stated. Check the meanings of the words, phrases and sentences.

Application What does the passage mean to me? Application is always based on thorough observation and careful interpretation. How does this passage apply to us in our day and age? Application should be specific and practical. Is there an example to follow, command to obey, sin to avoid, promise to claim, or teaching to appropriate?

Rules for inductive study Stick with the passage under discussion. Avoid tangents and digressions. The Bible is the authority. The “leader” is a question asker. Everyone participates by answering questions.

How to Study Your Bible - Kay Arthur “When you know what God says, what He means, and how to put His truths into practice, you will be equipped for every circumstance of life.”

Homework: Read How to Study your Bible pp Read Acts 16 (background to Philippians). Read the Epistle to the Philippians. For Philippians 1:12-21 write: 10 Observation Questions 3 Interpretation Questions 2 Application Questions

Let’s get started...Philippians1:1-11