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READS Bible Study Framework

READS

A framework for reading, studying, understanding, and applying Scripture.

PRAY before you start

Father, thank You for Your Word. As I read Your Word, please help me slow down and encounter You. Remove any distractions or preconceived ideas, and prepare my heart and spirit for what You have for me. Open my eyes to see Your truth and allow my mind to be transformed by it. Please help me understand what I read as I come with a posture of obedience, ready to apply it to my life. In Jesus’ name, amen.

READ

Read the passage slowly and more than once.

Questions

  • What translation am I reading?
  • What changes when I read it aloud?
  • Where does the passage naturally begin and end?

Practice

  • Read once for familiarity.
  • Read again for detail.
  • Read aloud when possible.
  • Compare another translation if a phrase is unclear.

EXAMINE

Observe what is actually in the text before deciding what it means.

Questions

  • Who is speaking?
  • Who is being addressed?
  • What happens?
  • What words, ideas, or actions are repeated?
  • What contrasts, commands, questions, promises, or surprises appear?
  • What do I notice about God and people?

ANALYZE

Interpret the passage in context.

Questions

  • What did this mean to the original audience?
  • What comes before and after it?
  • What historical, cultural, or literary context matters?
  • What type of writing is this: narrative, poetry, wisdom, Gospel, prophecy, or letter?
  • How does this passage fit within the larger story of Scripture?
  • What does this reveal about God, humanity, sin, grace, and redemption?

DO

Turn what you have learned into a specific act of obedience.

Questions

  • Is there a command to obey?
  • Is there a sin to confront?
  • Is there a promise to trust?
  • Is there an example to follow or avoid?
  • Is there a belief, habit, relationship, or decision that must change?
  • What will I do differently this week?
  • What specific step will I take, and when will I take it?

SHARE

Put the truth into your own words and give it away.

Questions

  • How would I summarize the main truth of this passage in one sentence?
  • How would I explain this passage to someone else?
  • Who needs the encouragement, correction, or truth I received?
  • What can I share without taking the passage out of context?