Bible study:
Keep a notebook handy. Always read a text within its context; not in isolation. (We'd never read any book by just picking out a phrase or sentence and think we understand, without the larger context).
Some Bible verses are direct commands: "Do not commit adultery." Other verses lead us to God's principles about living: " Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." God wants us to use our minds; to exercise both our liberty and our responsibility in the framework of loving Him, first and most of all.
A few incomplete practical pointers...
People- who is included in the passage? Is someone speaking? Is someone listening?
Place- are there any place-names? What has taken place there before?
What is the passage’s place in the BIG story of salvation and the gospel? Are there any words/phrases that point to time, history-when something has happened?
Parallels- are there other passages that deal with the same subject matter?
Praise- is there anything
mentioned about the character of God?
Prayer- is there something to be learned about prayer? Something to pray about?
Praxis- what must I
practically do, after having studied the passage?
Ponder- what can I meditate on throughout the day?
Genesis 1:1
"In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth"
People- There were none, in the beginning! God was there- the Father and the Son,(Jesus), and the Holy Spirit. Jesus was there; pre-incarnate. He had not yet condescended to being born. We are created beings. The Creator is greater than us; than me. Life is God-centered, not me-centered.
Place- The heavens and the earth. This opening verse is an introduction to the entire Bible. Like any good book, the first line is of vital importance. The next verses go on to expand on each day of creation. We DO live in a space-time-matter continuum. Before this point, there was no time. There is inherent value in creation because of the Creator.
Parallels- The theme of creation is found throughout the Bible. Those who put their trust in Jesus Christ are called a "new creation." The opening words are used by John in the gospel of John 1:1 and in his first letter: 1John1:1. Why does John begin this way? What does it tell us about Jesus, who was there "in the beginning?"
Praise- My God is an amazing creator! Our first introduction is knowing Him as the Creator. There must be some significance to this: an artist creates, with something in mind. The artist has a right to name their creation, to shape it as they see fit and to have it used in a specific way. God, as Creator, has the right to... create what He wants, and to create it for a purpose- His purpose-to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.
Prayer- Thank you, God, for the self-evident beauty, majesty and glory in your creation
Praxis- Pointing people to the Creator is the most exciting and the most lovely thing I can ever do. Taking care of this astounding planet gives honour to the Creator.
Ponder- With whom can I share this verse today? As a "new creation," am I growing and maturing and bearing good fruit? How can I be more careful about taking care of the planet?
I've got to admit- just going through this verse has given me tons of things to think about. Sometimes, my study leads me to more questions than answers; but that leads me to delve even deeper into an inexhaustible book.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow.
Praise Him all creatures here below.
Praise Him above, ye heavenly hosts.
Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost.
Amen.
