There are Bibles literally all over the place. You can find them in the drawer of the end table in your hotel room, under the pews at your local church, on the shelves of your local library or bookstore, posted in full and in multiple versions onany number of websites. You can find them in every corner of the earth, even (if you look carefully enough) in places where they're forbidden.

So there's no trouble getting hold of a Bible. But once you have one in your hands . . . now what? The Scriptures tell us that the Word of God is living and active; what happens to us as we interact with it?

In The Bible Study Handbook Lindsay Olesberg lays a foundation for why we read the Bible, what attitudes and expectations are most helpful as we enter into serious Bible study, and what methods and practices yield the most fruit. From foundational insights to best practices and hands-on exercises, you will find everything you need in this book to cultivate your curiosity, hone your attention and mine the applicabilities of whatever passage you find yourself in. And you'll be reminded of the insights, encouragement and even transformation waiting for people who commit to studying the Scriptures well together.

A comprehensive guide for Bible students of every level of experience and spiritual maturity.



Lindsay Olesberg is a Bible teacher and Scripture Engagement leader with the Lausanne Movement. She has overseen Bible study and exegesis at major evangelical gatherings throughout the world.



Foreward

Introduction: Solid

Part 1: Foundations

1. Centrality of the Word

2. Power of the Word

3. Authority of the Word

4. Water for the Soul

5. Community Around the Word

Part 2: Building Blocks

6. Honor the Author

7. Respect for the Story

8. Attentiveness

9. Curiosity

10. Understanding

11. Response

Part 3: Tool Box

12. Selection

13. Creating a Manuscript

14. Prayer

15. Determining Genre

16. Research Tools

17. Identifying Structure

18. Imagination

19. Commentaries

20. Studying Poetry

21. Group Study

Appendix A: Tips for Small Group Leaders

Appendix B: Introduction to Inductive Bible Study

Appendix C: Paying Attention to the Bible

Appendix D: Laws of Composition--Extended Version

Appendix E: Resources

Acknowledgments

Notes