Word Pictures of the Bible
Sunday, May 20th, 2007
Tools To Help You Study Your Bible
Concordance: a listing of words from scripture organized alphabetically with the scripture passages in which they are found.
Exhaustive concordance: lists all passages containing the word studied.
Bible dictionary: similar to any dictionary in that words are defined, their derivation given and possibly synonyms. May have pictures.
Bible encyclopedia: similar to other encyclopedias, except topics are Bible-related.
Topical Bible: words are arranged alphabetically by topic with some/all scripture passages containing the word.
Interlinear Bible: the Bible in English along side the Greek, Aramaic or Hebrew version. Useful for studying which English words are substituted for the original ones. Helpful in word studies.
Expository dictionary: gives definition of Greek, Aramaic or Hebrew words and some passages containing them. A helpful companion to the interlinear Bible.
Commentary: the author’s comments and interpretation of passages of scripture intended to clarify, give background or otherwise explain the passage.
Systematic theology: a systematic treatment of Bible doctrine, giving the author’s interpretation of the doctrine and the scriptural passages to support the position.
Book studies: focuses on a single book, giving historical background, commentary and explaining the relationship to other books of the Bible.
Ways To Study Your Bible
Read it: good approach for accounts, to view the unfolding of God’s work or history or get a feel for the flow. Good for meditation.
Book study: a closer look at the cultural background, history, theme and content of a book. Commentaries, Bible encyclopedias and book studies are helpful.
Word study: a thorough study of a single word or related words, including roots, derivation, usage and meaning nuances. Topical Bible, interlinear, expository dictionary, dictionary, encyclopedia and concordances are helpful.
Topic study: a thorough study of a topic such as angels, the crucifixion or tax gatherers. Topical Bible, dictionary, encyclopedia and concordances are helpful.
Event or era study: to study books of the bible from the same era to gain an understanding of the cultural climate and historical background and to understand the relationship between various Bible books. A great way to study the Prophets. Commentaries, book studies and Bible dictionaries and encyclopedias are very helpful.
Note of caution: be wary of commentaries and systematic theologies, as some authors hold to doctrines or beliefs that are contrary to sound scripture interpretation. When in doubt, ask Pastor Tom for recommendations.