How to Use the SOAP Bible Study Method
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalm 119:105
Today I’m talking about how you can use the SOAP Bible Study Method to help you learn more about the passages of Scripture you are reading to grow your faith and understanding.
There are so many ways you can study the Bible and a number of different Bible study methods out there. The SOAP Bible study method is one of my favorites because it’s so easy to use. It’s a simple method that gives you a good guideline for study.
“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12
How to Use the SOAP Bible Study Method
The SOAP Bible Study Method takes a passage of Scripture and helps you dig into into the details and learn how to apply it to your life. You end each study time with prayer, asking God to help you apply it what you’ve learned.
If you’re new to the SOAP Bible Study Method or you simply just want to learn more about it, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s answer some questions you might have about this method of Bible study.
Can I Study the Bible Alone?
YES! In fact, it’s important to take alone time with God every day and be in the Word. It’s absolutely wonderful to fellowship with other believers and study together. However, spending time with God alone on a regular basis allows you to meditate on God’s Word and hear His voice.
You may find it hard to know where to begin when studying alone. That’s okay! You can start with any book of the Bible. I found that starting with some of the shorter books in the Bible was an easy way to get my feet wet when I first began to really study the Bible.
Why is it Important to Study the Bible?
The Bible is God’s Word. Inside the pages of your Bible you’ll find God’s direct message to you. It’s not only a gift God gave us but an instruction manual for life. God’s Word offers encouragement, answers to life’s difficult questions, and it’s the best tool you can use for personal spiritual growth.
Reading the Bible draws us closer to God. God speaks to us and mold us through His Word. How can you know what God wants for you if you never read the Words He gave you?
As you study the Bible, you’ll notice a spiritual change in yourself. And I bet you’ll find that as your study time becomes a habit, your attitude will soften and you’ll feel more peace.
God’s Word offers us joy, peace, and certainty – all the things we strive for on a daily basis.
Reading and studying your Bible is important! Reading God’s Word each day helps you to stay connected to Him. But studying God’s Word deepens your faith and understanding of spiritual things.
Having a Bible study method that you enjoy using will help you understand more about:
- what you believe and why you believe it
- doctrine and theology
- the context of certain passages
- topics that pertain to your life
What is the SOAP Bible Study Method?
Having a method for reading the Bible helps you get into a routine each time you study. It helps you get in the right frame of mind for study. You’ll find that having a simple Bible study method gives helps you to better apply God’s Word to your life.
SOAP stands for scripture, observance, application, and prayer. Let’s look at what each one of those mean, in depth.
Scripture
For this section you’ll read the scripture or passage of scripture in depth. You first read it without any prompting or help towards the meaning. Then you write it down which is a tactic that helps it make more sense and be more memorable.
related: Bible Study Methods for the Proverbs 31 Woman
Observance
This is the second step to where you dive deep into the scripture you just read and wrote down. Make note of anything you noticed that seemed interesting or stood out to you.
Many people like to use the 5 W’s method like you would in English, for this part. Who, what, when, where, why, and how?
Try to answer as many questions about the scripture as possible in order to fully understand it. This means you might
- read a commentary about the scripture
- learn what scholars might have to say about the passage
- read other translations of the verse
- look up the original words in Greek or Hebrew, etc.
Really dig deep and study the verse or verses you chose for the day.
Application
This is the point where you slow down and ask yourself, “Out of everything I learned, how does this apply to me and my life and how can I utilize it in my life?”
This is the most personal aspect of the Bible study. You need to be honest with yourself. Take a hard look at any changes you need to make in your life or struggles you currently have.
Being honest with yourself will help you understand how best to practically apply the scriptures to your life today. You’ll be amazed at how much the Word of God can really change your life!
related: Does the Bible Interpret Itself
Prayer
This last step should also be your first step. Begin your study time with prayer. You can pray as your read God’s Word and even pray as you feel led throughout your study time.
Bathe your studying in prayer so that your mind and heart is open to what God has to show and speak to you through your scripture for the day.
Pray that God will show you how to apply this scripture to your life.
Use the end of your studying as a time to reflect with God on what you’ve learned. Have an open and honest conversation with God – just like you would with your best friend.
Tell Him your worries and fears, especially the ones brought up from your studying. If you feel confused or worried, pray that God will open your heart to what He has in store for you right now.
You may find that throughout the day you feel God’s voice speaking to you and revealing even more lessons about from your study time.
related: God Answers Prayer
Resources to Aid Your Bible Study Time
The SOAP Bible study method is a great method for digging into the Word of God.
It’s also an easy method to help guide you in your study time if you’re a beginner. Read the Word and let God speak to you.
The SOAP and other Bible study methods are meant to make your time in God’s Word easier and more fulfilling.
Free Printable SOAP Bible Study Sheets
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