http://intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=3801&view=post&articleid=78397&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
Jesus conceals truth for us, not 'from' us!
There are two main conceptions in what and why Jesus uses parables in edifying and instructing us. One, He uses simple everyday illustrations, allegories, stories, and word pictures that He pointed to, showcasing an illustration that people could understand and relate to. Second, in the illustration dwells a layered meaning-like an onion, if you will--that has a depth to it. His main reason? People, for the most part, are 'concrete' thinkers. We tend to look to the simplest, easiest meaning to mentally digest solution and rarely seek a deeper meaning or application. However, to grow in faith, we need to grow beyond ourselves, our perception, and our assumptions in order to grasp the true Truths Christ has for us. Thus, for us to grow in faith...
http://intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=3801&view=post&articleid=31649&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
There are many ways we can study the Bible effectively. There is no "best" way, only that we do it! Many Christians feel all they have to do for Bible lessons is sit in a pew, turn on the television or radio, or naturally receive their knowledge for being a Christian; but this is not how to transform our lives. We must read and get into the Word of God ourselves: Through prayer, hard work, discipline, concentration, application, and even more prayer!
http://intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=3801&view=post&articleid=31564&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
The Seventh Step of Inductive Bible Study is Asking the Big Question, "How does this apply to me?"
We are called to be the person who gets in His Word, who sees, knows, and applies it, will be growing and useful for Christ. He or she will be exhibiting good character and godliness as he or she moves into actually applying Christianity, to be Doers of His Mighty Word! Remember the Word of God's purpose is to transform us into His image and character!
http://intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=3801&view=post&articleid=31555&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
Inductive Bible study is learning how to exegete the Bible for all its worth with our best efforts. We do this through teaching people tools and skills to help observe the text, dig out the meaning, and then apply it to their lives. Thus, inductive Bible Study enhances the exegesis process by enabling us to read the Bible for more impact, value and significance. In practice, we first examine the ideas and words of the text, then this leads us to the meanings and interpretations, and then we are led to the conclusions and applications.
http://intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=3801&view=post&articleid=31554&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
Often called the Lectio Divina, simply means as we read His Word we can pray too. It is about integrating our prayer and Scripture life for greater spiritual stimulation that leads to greater understanding of our Lord and then greater application of His precepts. As we read God's Word we can and should be praying to our Lord, too. This combines...
http://intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=3801&view=post&articleid=66163&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
This is the classic article to show you how to better understand and study the Bible inductively! Obedience and faith is a trust relationship with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ that we learn and grow from our efforts of getting into the Bible, seeking God's counsel and applying His true-Truth and precepts to our lives and churches. This is used overseas to train tens of thousands of pastors on how to teach the Bible, prepare basic sermons and for them to know, grow and lead others to God's rich pastures in the Word.
http://intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=3801&view=post&articleid=31536&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
Hermeneutics is about how to prepare sermons. Hermeneutics is the science and art of Biblical interpretation. It is a science because it is guided by rules within a system; and it is an art because the application of the rules is by skill, and not by mechanical imitation.
Here is a complete guide to how to effectively research and prepare biblical, impacting, true and relevant sermons to your congregation. All the tools you need to know!