Before we can understand what a Bible passage means we must first see what it says. Therefore, faithful Inductive study always begins with good Bible observation. Inductive Bible study is evidence-based. We work to understand the author’s original intent through thorough examination of what he included in his text. (Also see “What is Inductive Bible Study?” and “10 Observation Tips for Better Bible Study.”)

But before we begin to observe a Bible passage, we should check our Bible study attitude and approach. There are right ways and wrong ways to handle God’s Word. Our approach can mean the difference between correct and faulty understanding of Scripture. (Also see “4 R Bible Study Method for Everyday Use.”)

Five Characteristics of Good Bible Observation

So, what does the right attitude for observation look like? Although not an exhaustive list, if we adopt the following five characteristics, our approach to Bible observation will be far more effective. 

Objective – Most of us sit down to read the Bible with some prior knowledge of the passage. We’ve heard sermons and podcasts, sat in Bible study, read the Bible, and even engaged in conversations that may unknowingly influence our understanding of the passage. Sometimes this prior knowledge is in line with God’s one, eternal meaning, but not always. When we sit down to read or study let’s come with fresh eyes and no assumptions. Allow the Holy Spirit to use the evidence in the passage to inform and teach. Allow Him to correct any wrongly held understanding or beliefs. Curious – Good Bible observation asks questions and examines. Let’s act like investigative journalists who are intent on uncovering all the facts. We will leave no stone unturned because we want to know the answers. We long to know more about God, His will, and His ways. And we won’t stop until our curiosity is satisfied.Active – Simple Bible reading is beneficial, encouraging, and instructive, but it’s also mostly passive. In contrast, good Bible observation is active. We look, we ask, we examine. We can also highlight, underline, make tables, draw pictures, and take notes. Good observation involves so much more of our attention and even senses than just reading. When I observe a Bible passage I actively highlight, mark, and make notes in my single-column journaling Bible. (Also see “Bible Highlighting for More Effective Study” and “What My Quiet Time Looks Like.”)Systematic – God’s Word is so rich and deep. It’s easy to miss important facts or key concepts if we don’t observe systematically. This can look different for different people. Perhaps you simply go line by line and look for everything as you go. Or maybe you go through the passage repeatedly focusing on one thing at a time. For instance, if it’s a narrative passage, maybe you begin by simply looking for all the facts of the event like who, where, and when. Then you may go through again and watch for the plot line.Submitted – I saved the most important characteristic for last. Before we even open God’s Word, we should submit ourselves to Him, committing to obey whatever He shows us in the Scripture. If we begin with the attitude of submission, that means our obedience is non-negotiable. We aren’t waiting to see what God says before we decide if we will obey. Check Your Attitude for Bible Observation

Well, how does your attitude compare to the characteristics above? I will admit I struggle sometimes with submission and objectivity. But I’m learning and growing all the time. How about you?

Helpful Characteristics of Good Bible Observation by Kathy Howard.