What do you think?
Rate this book
How to Study the Bible Intentionally [Updated Edition]: Methods and Conditions for Effective Bible Study
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Nothing is more important for our own mental, moral, and spiritual development, or for our increase in usefulness, than Bible study. But, not all Bible study is equally profitable. Some Bible study is absolutely profitless. How to study the Bible so as to get the most benefit from it is a topic of immeasurable importance.
The practicality and effectiveness of these Bible study methods and conditions have been tested in the classroom, and not with classes made up completely of college graduates, but largely composed of people of very simple education. The methods, however, require time and hard work. It must be remembered that the Bible contains gold, and almost anyone is willing to dig for gold, especially if it is certain that he will find it. It is certain that one will find gold in the Bible – if he digs. As you use the methods recommended in this book, you will find your ability to do the work rapidly increasing by exercise, until you can soon do more in fifteen minutes than you could do in an hour when you started.
No book other than the Bible provides the opportunity for intellectual and spiritual development by its study. No other book, and no other subject, will so abundantly repay careful and sincere study. The Bible is read much, but is studied very little in comparison.
Table of Contents
Ch. 1: Introduction to Methods of Bible Study
Ch. 2: The Study of Individual Books
Ch. 3: Topical Study
Ch. 4: Biographical Study
Ch. 5: Study of Types
Ch. 6: Study the Books of the Bible in Order
Ch. 7: Studying the Bible for Practical Usefulness in Dealing with People
Ch. 8: The Fundamental Conditions of the Most Profitable Bible Study
Ch. 9: Final Suggestions
About the Author
Reuben Archer Torrey traveled all over the world leading evangelistic tours, preaching to the unsaved. It is believed that more than one hundred thousand were saved under his preaching. Torrey married Clara Smith in 1879, with whom he had five children. In 1908, he helped start the Montrose Bible Conference in Pennsylvania, which continues today. He became dean of the Bible Institute of Los Angeles (now Biola University) in 1912, and was the pastor of the Church of the Open Door in Los Angeles from 1915 to 1924. Torrey continued speaking all over the world and holding Bible conferences. He died in Asheville, North Carolina, on October 26, 1928.
Nothing is more important for our own mental, moral, and spiritual development, or for our increase in usefulness, than Bible study. But, not all Bible study is equally profitable. Some Bible study is absolutely profitless. How to study the Bible so as to get the most benefit from it is a topic of immeasurable importance.
The practicality and effectiveness of these Bible study methods and conditions have been tested in the classroom, and not with classes made up completely of college graduates, but largely composed of people of very simple education. The methods, however, require time and hard work. It must be remembered that the Bible contains gold, and almost anyone is willing to dig for gold, especially if it is certain that he will find it. It is certain that one will find gold in the Bible – if he digs. As you use the methods recommended in this book, you will find your ability to do the work rapidly increasing by exercise, until you can soon do more in fifteen minutes than you could do in an hour when you started.
No book other than the Bible provides the opportunity for intellectual and spiritual development by its study. No other book, and no other subject, will so abundantly repay careful and sincere study. The Bible is read much, but is studied very little in comparison.
Table of Contents
Ch. 1: Introduction to Methods of Bible Study
Ch. 2: The Study of Individual Books
Ch. 3: Topical Study
Ch. 4: Biographical Study
Ch. 5: Study of Types
Ch. 6: Study the Books of the Bible in Order
Ch. 7: Studying the Bible for Practical Usefulness in Dealing with People
Ch. 8: The Fundamental Conditions of the Most Profitable Bible Study
Ch. 9: Final Suggestions
About the Author
Reuben Archer Torrey traveled all over the world leading evangelistic tours, preaching to the unsaved. It is believed that more than one hundred thousand were saved under his preaching. Torrey married Clara Smith in 1879, with whom he had five children. In 1908, he helped start the Montrose Bible Conference in Pennsylvania, which continues today. He became dean of the Bible Institute of Los Angeles (now Biola University) in 1912, and was the pastor of the Church of the Open Door in Los Angeles from 1915 to 1924. Torrey continued speaking all over the world and holding Bible conferences. He died in Asheville, North Carolina, on October 26, 1928.
96 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1896
1456 people are currently reading
516 people want to read
About the author
Reuben A. Torrey
540 books86 followersReuben Archer Torrey studied at Yale and in Germany before taking up a pastorate in the United States. As a gifted intellectual, administrator, and Bible teacher, he went on to pastor Moody Church in Chicago and became D.L. Moody's closest associate. In his later years, he traveled the world as an evangelist speaking to millions in Australia, New Zealand, India, England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales, Japan, China, Hawaii, Germany, the United States, and Canada. Torrey edited the last two volumes of the monumental "The Fundamentals" and was instrumental in the founding of both Moody Bible Institute and BIOLA University.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
May 15, 2020
great thing about old books is that you can get them free (old as in over 100 years old), mostly on google play. i've been working on a project on reading these older books, and applying what i can in today's world.
finished in about an hour, it was a quick read. and while some of the steps torrey rights about are a little outdated (due to commentaries written and the book itself is from the 1890's) i did find practical suggestions, such as reading a book 12 times through before taking notes, as to absorb the material, as well as the important of prayer in studying the word.
Along with several thought provoking quotes, I enjoyed it. Any book that deepens your walk with God isn't bad at all. Easy to read, practical, I enjoyed it.
finished in about an hour, it was a quick read. and while some of the steps torrey rights about are a little outdated (due to commentaries written and the book itself is from the 1890's) i did find practical suggestions, such as reading a book 12 times through before taking notes, as to absorb the material, as well as the important of prayer in studying the word.
Along with several thought provoking quotes, I enjoyed it. Any book that deepens your walk with God isn't bad at all. Easy to read, practical, I enjoyed it.
November 1, 2020
Wow!! I’m really impressed.
This book might be short but it has a lot of information.
Also, the author has written this book to all people, even if you are not a leader or a pastor, you’ll be able to understand everything.
This books explains methods for studying the Bible with examples which is very helpful.
If you want to study the Bible and you don’t know how or where to start, this books is the greatest option.
This book might be short but it has a lot of information.
Also, the author has written this book to all people, even if you are not a leader or a pastor, you’ll be able to understand everything.
This books explains methods for studying the Bible with examples which is very helpful.
If you want to study the Bible and you don’t know how or where to start, this books is the greatest option.
November 16, 2020
I cannot recommend this short book highly enough! Whether you are a brand new baby Christian or a seasoned believer, this little book will show you how to glean more treasure from the Word of God than you ever thought possible.
January 6, 2021
Provides several study methods
The various study methods are carefully explained using detailed how-to with examples. I found it quite helpful and on point.
The various study methods are carefully explained using detailed how-to with examples. I found it quite helpful and on point.
December 21, 2024
3.5 stars
Torrey outlines various methods of Bible study. 1) the study of individual books, 2) topical study, 3) biographical study, etc. He recommends using all methods for a well-rounded understanding of Scripture, but the most helpful part of the book comes in Chapter eight, when he outlines the conditions for getting the most out of your Bible reading.
First, the reader must be a Christian in order to have the spiritual discernment for understanding the texts. Second, is love for the Bible. Third, is a willingness to do hard work. “The person who wants to get not only the silver, but the gold as well, out of the Bible, and find its hidden treasures, must make up his mind to dig.” Fourth is a will wholly surrendered to God. “The Bible becomes a new book to the person who sincerely obeys it. We do not study the Bible for the mere gratification of intellectual curiosity, but study it to find out how to live and please God.” Fifth, six and seventh are to have childlike faith, to recognize the Bible’s authority over us, and to read it in an attitude of prayerfulness.
This is a simple little book that will challenge you to read the Bible more carefully.
Torrey outlines various methods of Bible study. 1) the study of individual books, 2) topical study, 3) biographical study, etc. He recommends using all methods for a well-rounded understanding of Scripture, but the most helpful part of the book comes in Chapter eight, when he outlines the conditions for getting the most out of your Bible reading.
First, the reader must be a Christian in order to have the spiritual discernment for understanding the texts. Second, is love for the Bible. Third, is a willingness to do hard work. “The person who wants to get not only the silver, but the gold as well, out of the Bible, and find its hidden treasures, must make up his mind to dig.” Fourth is a will wholly surrendered to God. “The Bible becomes a new book to the person who sincerely obeys it. We do not study the Bible for the mere gratification of intellectual curiosity, but study it to find out how to live and please God.” Fifth, six and seventh are to have childlike faith, to recognize the Bible’s authority over us, and to read it in an attitude of prayerfulness.
This is a simple little book that will challenge you to read the Bible more carefully.
May 7, 2022
Torrey does a great job of speaking plainly and powerfully on studying the Scriptures. While this book may serve as a quick reference for both what and how to study, it also contains several poignant spiritual truths such as the memorizing of scripture to defeat sin in one’s life. While the chapters stand together in a first reading, they may be used as individual launch points for study down the road.
May 15, 2024
This was a quick, little read. Torrey presents six different methods of studying the Bible. He writes well and provides clear examples of how the method would look. He also includes a chapter in what the conditions would look like for these studies.
I disagreed with much of his theology which was expected.
Without having tried his methods, I found several of them to be overbearing to the point of being ridiculous. For example, before beginning a topical study of the Bible, Torrey writes that one should first compile a list of every single topic addressed in the Bible, being as specific and exhaustive as you can. That alone is an immense, almost endless task. After you've made the list, you can arrange it in the order you will study those topics. That's just too much.
I did not like his tone. He writes in such a snide and condescending manner towards everyone:
"But many people are lazy, and everybody is in a hurry. So if you will not follow the full plan, the shorter is suggested."
And, speaking of why you should take time to meditate on the notes your gathered during your study (which I also didn't like- that the meditation he's recommending is on your notes instead of the Bible itself- that's what will grow you spiritually...):
"This is what I have done, and have thereby gained a fuller knowledge of truth along these lines, and an immeasurably more vital grasp of the truth than I ever obtained by somewhat extended studies in systematic theology."
As a mother of four under five, I am not the intended audience based on the time commitment these studies would take as well as the conditions (ie locking oneself away from the rest of the world at a time when your mind isn't tired or fuzzy? Never.) He has several good ideas that I can adapt and adjust in my study, but his methods are too involved for this time of life and for many more years to come.
I disagreed with much of his theology which was expected.
Without having tried his methods, I found several of them to be overbearing to the point of being ridiculous. For example, before beginning a topical study of the Bible, Torrey writes that one should first compile a list of every single topic addressed in the Bible, being as specific and exhaustive as you can. That alone is an immense, almost endless task. After you've made the list, you can arrange it in the order you will study those topics. That's just too much.
I did not like his tone. He writes in such a snide and condescending manner towards everyone:
"But many people are lazy, and everybody is in a hurry. So if you will not follow the full plan, the shorter is suggested."
And, speaking of why you should take time to meditate on the notes your gathered during your study (which I also didn't like- that the meditation he's recommending is on your notes instead of the Bible itself- that's what will grow you spiritually...):
"This is what I have done, and have thereby gained a fuller knowledge of truth along these lines, and an immeasurably more vital grasp of the truth than I ever obtained by somewhat extended studies in systematic theology."
As a mother of four under five, I am not the intended audience based on the time commitment these studies would take as well as the conditions (ie locking oneself away from the rest of the world at a time when your mind isn't tired or fuzzy? Never.) He has several good ideas that I can adapt and adjust in my study, but his methods are too involved for this time of life and for many more years to come.
January 31, 2024
This is a short guide that gives various methods for studying the Bible. Each chapter goes through a different way of studying God's Word so that you can see the right and wrong way to approach that method. The approaches discussed are topical, biographical, study of individual books, study of types, chronological study, and study for practical usefulness in dealing with people. The author gives very detailed outlines as examples of how to dig deep into studying scripture. This book is useful for someone just starting out in Bible study as well as someone who is well versed in the Bible. This guide is practical and useful for all levels of study. I recommend for anyone looking to start out in Bible study as well as anyone who wants to take their study to the next level.
April 8, 2024
This was free via Kindle Reader, but I want my money back. No where in this booklet is there any study of the Bible: it is not even mentioned. Instead, it is Bible worshiping, as if a paper god or something. No where is it stated where many of the myths in the Bible came from (many from Canaan, many from Babylonia, many from Assyria); no where does it state when the parts of the Bible were written. No where is it explained by the most ancient versions are radically different than all other versions. These are basic, fundamental issues that are usually taught first when studying the Bible.
Skip this one.
Skip this one.
December 31, 2023
R.A. Torrey instructions to the reader is well done in this guide to personal study of The Bible
but his insights and commentary is quite noteworthy such as He Writes
"With every verse of Scripture, we should not ask what it can be made to teach, but what it was intended to teach" this is such a timeless quote and it certainly emphasizes the purpose of this book and the importance of approaching the Word of God
but his insights and commentary is quite noteworthy such as He Writes
"With every verse of Scripture, we should not ask what it can be made to teach, but what it was intended to teach" this is such a timeless quote and it certainly emphasizes the purpose of this book and the importance of approaching the Word of God
December 26, 2022
As always, Torrey does not disappoint in this book. He not only tells you how to study the Bible but goes into specific examples. It gives a lot of Scripture references for why we do what we do. The book is full of examples of different genres and how you study the Bible's many genres and subgenres. This was a great refreshing read!
March 4, 2024
How do you understand the bible?
What I liked is how many options we have in studying the bible.
I would recommend this to all Christians members and new believers from any and all congregations.
I gave 5 stars because of the different methods and ways of studying the bible, which can help many different Christians in various ways.
What I liked is how many options we have in studying the bible.
I would recommend this to all Christians members and new believers from any and all congregations.
I gave 5 stars because of the different methods and ways of studying the bible, which can help many different Christians in various ways.
April 5, 2024
Not as good as I thought it would be. Some of his advice is good, but the overall tone of his writing gave off arrogant vibes, making it difficult for me to even want to take his suggestions. My biggest takeaway from this book is that I should go into the Bible without any expectations or assumptions, but rather wait for God's Words to speak to me.
November 26, 2020
Worth Your Time To Read
There are many books out there which have similar titles. However, given this is one of the older ones, we can be thankful Torrey wrote it as his suggestions for studying the bible have been borrowed by many authors.
There are many books out there which have similar titles. However, given this is one of the older ones, we can be thankful Torrey wrote it as his suggestions for studying the bible have been borrowed by many authors.
December 28, 2023
This is a good thorough book on Bible study. Many of the principles are now rebranded as inductive Bible study but there are many that are different.
I didn't give it 5 stars because his Keswick theology comes out and that is not good according to his own writings.
I didn't give it 5 stars because his Keswick theology comes out and that is not good according to his own writings.
July 14, 2025
Fascinating
Fascinating read To improve the study of the bible from Of studying learning and improving the scope of spiritual root To those that might have that understanding this is a great introduction as well as included education peace.
Fascinating read To improve the study of the bible from Of studying learning and improving the scope of spiritual root To those that might have that understanding this is a great introduction as well as included education peace.
November 22, 2025
Great information and interesting insights
Great introduction or review of study methods. Convicting insights on daily study for oneself to grow in knowledge and closeness to God. Lots of handy notes.
Great introduction or review of study methods. Convicting insights on daily study for oneself to grow in knowledge and closeness to God. Lots of handy notes.
September 19, 2021
How to
On studying the Bible
Must read
On studying the Bible
Must read
November 20, 2021
Interesting
I like this book because it was helpful to me. Wasn't certain how to study the bible and this book showed me step by step. Thank you
I like this book because it was helpful to me. Wasn't certain how to study the bible and this book showed me step by step. Thank you
November 30, 2021
Recommended read
Really enjoyed this and very clear approaches to explore God’s Word.
Can be used by all who want to have a relationship with God.
Really enjoyed this and very clear approaches to explore God’s Word.
Can be used by all who want to have a relationship with God.
January 12, 2022
Good book
If you want to improve or master your Bible study time, this book it’s for you. I recommended. Easy reading.
If you want to improve or master your Bible study time, this book it’s for you. I recommended. Easy reading.
January 21, 2022
Studying the bible
The ways to study had many steps for someone who is just starting out with a bible study. Okay otherwise.
The ways to study had many steps for someone who is just starting out with a bible study. Okay otherwise.
June 18, 2022
Good Advice
Overall this book has good advice on how to study the Bible. Some parts may not be applicable to everyone, but the invite useful.
Overall this book has good advice on how to study the Bible. Some parts may not be applicable to everyone, but the invite useful.
July 28, 2023
Learn for yourself
Forget gives different ways to study the Bibles as well as the fundamentals needed to study. Very basic good read.
Forget gives different ways to study the Bibles as well as the fundamentals needed to study. Very basic good read.
September 12, 2024
Great book
I will make every effort to follow the methods outlined in the book great read
Convicted me to stop being lazy and study the word as a"baby". No agenda just time with God
I will make every effort to follow the methods outlined in the book great read
Convicted me to stop being lazy and study the word as a"baby". No agenda just time with God
September 27, 2024
Very basic.
December 27, 2024
God is good
Good way to read the Bible. Believing in a higher power than yourself. When you are lost turn to God.
Good way to read the Bible. Believing in a higher power than yourself. When you are lost turn to God.
April 7, 2025
A practical and informative piece of book. It tells you how to read a book that can change life.
April 24, 2025
Highly recommended, very practical! I love one of the quotes: “The Bible contains gold, and almost any one is willing to dig for gold, especially if it is certain that he will find it.”
July 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews