Here is a basic outline of Inductive Bible Study:I. Basic Steps of Inductive Bible Study
A. Observation
-What does the Bible say?
B. Interpretation
-What does the passage mean?
C. Application
-What does the passage say to me?
II. Observation
•Who is the author?
•Whom is it about?
•When does it take place?
•What are the key words (nouns, verbs)?
•What key words/phrases are repeated?
•What is being compared? (like, as)
•What is being contrasted? (but)
•What are the cause/effect relationships? (therefore, for)
•What form is used? (parable, narrative, poetry)
III. Interpretation
•How is the passage affected by its biblical/historical setting?
•How does the passage relate to its context?
•How does this passage compare with other related passages?
•What terms or ideas need to be researched?
•Summarize the passage/paragraph in one sentence. (BIG idea)
IV. Application
•Sin to confess?
•Promise to claim?
•Attitude to change?
•Command to obey?
•Example to follow?
•Prayer to pray?
•Error to avoid?
•Truth to believe?
•Something to praise God for?
