In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (NIV) John 1:1
Just as school children look forward to summer, it’s a special time for me also. For the past few years I take a break from my Bible teaching for the summer. This gives me a flexible schedule that allows for long blocks of time to study for upcoming teaching. This October, I begin teaching through the book of John. We will also be filming the study for Internet viewing.
I started my study by reading through the entire book of John in one sitting. This helps me gain a broad overview of the book. I look for the author’s purpose, the main subjects that he covers, and I watch for repeated themes and words. At this point, I don’t take the time to go in-depth, but rather seek to gather an overview of the book.
Here are a few tips to when you read through a book:
- Keep a list of the general themes and words that the author emphasizes.
- Record important people in the book.
- Write your questions down as you read. Then watch for answers as you read further and record the answer next to the question. You will be amazed at how many questions God answers as you continue in your reading!
- Don’t get hung up on understanding every detail you read. Trust that God will reveal more to you as you dig further into the book.
Would you consider studying the book of John along with me this summer? I will be posting thoughts from my studies on the blog.
I hope that you’ll use your summer in a productive way. I’d love to hear what God is showing you in your study of John. Drop me an email at: mk@anchoryourlife.com
