How to Use the SOAP Bible Study Method

Do you want to understand the Bible better? Are you looking for a simple and practical approach to studying Scripture? The SOAP method could be the answer. The SOAP method of Bible Study is a simple yet powerful technique that can revolutionise your Bible study routine.

What is the SOAP Method?

The SOAP method, an acronym for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer, provides a structured framework for engaging with the Word of God. Here's how each step of this method works:

Scripture

The first step in the SOAP method is to select a passage of scripture to study. Depending on your preference, this could be a single verse, a short series of verses, or an entire chapter. Choosing specific portions of Scripture to study helps focus your attention so you can delve into its meaning. Once you have selected your Scripture, write it down.

Click here for more on writing Scripture

Observation

Now you've identified the Scripture, it's time to make observations. This step involves closely examining the text, looking for key themes, words, and phrases that stand out to you. Consider the historical context, style of communication, and any symbolic language used in the passage.

Application

After engaging with the Scripture and making observations, the next step is application. Ask yourself: How does this passage apply to my life? What lessons can I learn from it? The goal is to move beyond mere intellectual understanding to personal reflection and application of the Word.

Prayer

The final step in the SOAP method is prayer. Spend time reflecting on what you've learned through the scripture, observation, and application steps. Offer prayers of gratitude, confession, supplication, or whatever else the passage inspires. Use this time to connect with God and seek His guidance in applying the lessons to your life.

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This New Testament in Minutes infographic tells you how many minutes it takes to read each New Testament book, but also contains a key theme from each book making it a handy study aid. It is designed to be folded in three to fit in your Bible or notebook. It can also be displayed or filed for reference. Get yours free today.

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Examples of the SOAP Method in Action

Let's explore how the SOAP method can be applied using a familiar passage: Philippians 4:13 – "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

• Scripture: Select Philippians 4:13 as the passage for study and write it out.

• Observation: Philippians 4:13 is part of Paul's letter to the church in Philippi, written around AD 61. The overarching theme of this letter is joy. In context, this Scripture is not about us being strong by ourselves. It emphasises that God's empowerment allows us to endure any circumstance with contentment. Paul's experiences of hunger and lack helped him learn this contentment.

• Application: Reflect on specific times when you felt weak, or are feeling weak and draw strength from this promise in your own life. Consider when you have relied on your own strength and how you could have relied on God's strength instead. How content are you? Do you look for lessons in both lack and abundance? Think about what you have learnt through experiencing lack and abundance.

• Prayer: Ask the Holy Spirit for a deeper and lasting understanding of the Scripture and His strength. Offer a prayer of gratitude for the strength found in Christ. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you where you rely on your strength or the strength of others instead of His. Ask Him to help renew your mind to the truth of Philippians 4:13 so you rely on His strength not your own.

Using the SOAP Bible study method, studying a verse or passage can help you establish your foundation in God and His Word as you open your heart to learn from Scripture.

The SOAP Bible Study Method

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The SOAP Bible Study Pack

This SOAP Bible Study Pack includes a guide explaining how to use the SOAP Bible Study method and sheets to conduct the study. It is printable for writing notes by hand, or you can edit it on your device. There are two versions so you can choose between writing longer or shorter notes. Get yours here.

Why Use the SOAP Method?

The SOAP method has several benefits for anyone seeking to engage more deeply with the Bible:

• Structure: The method provides a clear structure that guides the study process, making it easy to stay focused and organised.

• Reflection: Through observation and application, the SOAP method encourages personal reflection and spiritual growth.

• Connection: By incorporating prayer into our study routine, we can deepen our connection with God and cultivate a more meaningful relationship. A focus on prayer can stop us falling into accumulating head knowledge and understanding without our hearts being changed into God's likeness.

  
  

Bible study which, by design, leads to reflection and prayer is immensely beneficial. It helps point our hearts to God and His wisdom rather than any natural ability to dissect or comprehend a text.

Blessing in Action: How to Use the SOAP Bible Study Method

Incorporating the SOAP Bible study method into your Bible study routine can revolutionise your engagement with God's Word. Whether you're a seasoned Believer or new to the faith, this simple yet profound approach has much to offer. So, grab your Bible, pick a passage, and study with the SOAP method.

Try out the SOAP Bible study method using a verse from Psalm 23. Use it on a different verse from the Psalm each day. Review all your SOAP notes at the end and meditate on the message of Psalm 23 as a whole. Let me know how you get on!

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