Digging into Bible Study with Jen Wilkin: Day 2

Summary

This video focuses on the first stage of Bible study: comprehension. It emphasizes the importance of engaging with the text directly, without relying on external sources such as commentaries or study notes. Viewers are encouraged to read the text repeatedly, mark key words, and note their questions. The speaker demonstrates how to identify key concepts, like the attributes of God, and how to analyze specific verses. The goal is to understand what the text says before diving into interpretation and application, fostering a deeper, personal connection with the Scripture.

Takeaways

• 😀 **Comprehension First**: Start by focusing on the **comprehension** stage of Bible study, which involves understanding what the text says without turning immediately to secondary sources like commentaries or study Bibles.
• 😀 **Avoid Relying on Experts Early**: To build comprehension, avoid using study tools (e.g., Study Bibles, podcasts, sermons) until you have spent sufficient time with the text yourself.
• 😀 **Use Basic Study Tools**: Tools for comprehension include marking key imperatives (commands), identifying attributes of God, looking up unfamiliar words, and comparing different Bible translations.
• 😀 **Mark Key Commands (Imperatives)**: Pay attention to commands in the text, such as 'count it all joy' and 'let him ask in faith,' which highlight important actions or attitudes for readers to adopt.
• 😀 **Attributes of God**: Identify attributes of God revealed in the text, such as His **generosity** (giving wisdom without reproach) and **steadfastness** (the fruit of trials in believers’ lives).
• 😀 **Look Up Words**: Words that are unfamiliar or overly familiar, such as 'steadfastness,' should be looked up in a dictionary to gain a deeper understanding of their meaning in context.
• 😀 **Questioning is Key**: As you read, write down any questions you have about the text. Don’t rush to answer them immediately; instead, allow the questions to sit and guide later stages of study.
• 😀 **Comparing Translations**: To clarify difficult verses, compare them across different Bible translations. For example, James 1:2 can be interpreted in different ways, offering new insights into the passage.
• 😀 **Slow, Repetitive Reading**: Don’t rush through the text. Read it repeatedly, taking time to absorb each part, especially the words and phrases that stand out to you.
• 😀 **Focus on What the Text Says, Not What It Means Yet**: At the comprehension stage, focus solely on what the text says before moving on to interpretation and application. This builds a strong foundation for later stages of study.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of day two in the study method?

Day two focuses on comprehension, which is the first step in understanding a biblical text. The goal is to understand what the text says before interpreting or applying it.

Why is comprehension considered the most basic level of understanding?

Comprehension is the foundation of understanding, as it answers the simple question: 'What does the text say?' This step is necessary to avoid relying on secondary sources for the basic facts of the text.

Why should we temporarily put away study tools like commentaries and podcasts?

The purpose is to engage directly with the text without outside influences. This helps to avoid bias and allows for a clearer understanding of the text before seeking interpretations from others.

What does the speaker suggest you do with questions that arise during comprehension?

The speaker advises that you write down your questions and let them sit for a while. Instead of rushing to find answers, allow time for the questions to deepen your understanding of the text.

How are imperatives (commands) in the text used during comprehension?

Imperatives are highlighted to track the actions or instructions given in the text. These commands help clarify the structure and intent of the passage.

What is the importance of looking up words in a dictionary during the comprehension stage?

Looking up words, especially those that are familiar but may carry deeper meanings in context, helps refine understanding and ensures accurate interpretation of terms like 'righteousness' or 'steadfastness.'

What role does comparing translations play in understanding difficult verses?

Comparing different translations helps clarify ambiguous or difficult passages. For example, it can reveal nuances in meaning that enhance comprehension, such as understanding why trials are considered a source of joy.

What was the significance of marking 'steadfast' throughout the passage?

The word 'steadfast' appears multiple times in the text and is crucial to understanding the text’s message. Marking it helps highlight its importance and reinforces its connection to both human perseverance and God's unchanging nature.

How does the speaker recommend dealing with the rich and poor mentioned in the text?

The speaker encourages marking the mentions of 'brother' (lowly and rich) and noting the contrast between the two groups. This can help understand the structure of the text and how James addresses both social classes in relation to trials and faith.

Why is the concept of God’s generosity highlighted during comprehension?

God’s generosity is emphasized because it emerges directly from the text and is an important attribute of God. Understanding this attribute helps reinforce the message of God’s willingness to give wisdom to those who ask in faith.