Authors, Writers, Publishers, and Book Readers

Writing Bible Studies: Theme-Based or Verse-Based Approach?

There are many different ways to approach writing Bible studies. If you have undertaken that tedious yet rewarding task, you may have started with a theme (joy, love, etc.) or a few passages that you really wanted to grasp. What is your preference?

Neither approach is more correct than the other. Personally, I start with specific passages to which God draws my attention. Whether heard in a sermon, Bible class or read during my morning quiet time, God causes certain passages to resonate in my soul. When that happens, I begin the research to understand them. Before long, a Bible study is birthed simply out of my quest to understand those passages.

So, if you're interested in writing Bible studies centered on just a few passages, here are a few helpful hints that have sustained me over the years:

1. Look up those passages in their original language. Whether Greek or Hebrew, it's crucial to understand the exact words used. There are no vowels in the Hebrew language, so our English translators needed to add vowels in order for the words to make sense to us. But sometimes, our English words and the meanings we attach to them are quite different than what the Biblical writers originally intended. You don't need a theology degree to undertake this language research. There are plenty of reliable websites and reference books that lead us in the right direction.

2. Understand the culture in which those passages were written. For example, it's hard to understand the depth of love that drove the father to run toward his returning prodigal son until we understand that for a man of his stature to lift up his robes and run was utterly disgraceful. But when we understand that, we grasp more deeply how much God conveys His love toward us when you and I go astray. Researching the culture in which the passages were written provides rich history and valuable insight.

3. Read and learn from scholar's commentaries. With their training and background in theological studies, they've been taught the nuances of the original languages and culture that help bring those passages to life. They often cross-reference similar passages (if applicable) that speak to the same word, thought, idea, or situation that lend deeper understanding to our writing.

There are many other resources we can utilize as we write Bible studies. I approach writing Bible studies from a verse-by-verse approach simply because I need God to hide those words in my heart. When I feel the enemy's fiery darts of temptation, fear, or doubt, I can then pull out that sword of the Spirit and get to stabbing. I can't do that with a theme. It's simply how God has called me to write Bible studies.

Hiding God's Word in our hearts is so very critical to our spiritual journey. Regardless of how you approach writing Bible studies, keep writing. It not only enriches us and draws us closer to God, it has the possibility to do the same for countless others.

Blessings as you continue your calling!

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