Kathy Howard's Blog: Unshakeable Faith for Life, page 4

The wisdom books of the Bible include Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Job, and Song of Songs. Some of the Psalms also fall into the wisdom classification. Wisdom, one of about eight types of literature found in the Bible, is an ancient writing form that can sound very foreign to modern ears. 

Unfortunately, many Christians don’t spend much time reading the wisdom books in the Bible. And when we do, we often struggle to understand what it means. Or worse yet, we misunderstand and don’t even realize it. (See also “Tips for Handling 8 Different Biblical Genres.”)

This post shares four types of wisdom literature and gives some practical tips for reading and studying the wisdom books of the Bible. (See also “8 Tips to Help You Understand Proverbs” and “5 Tips to Help You Understand the Psalms.”)

Wisdom Literature Defined

If you looked up “wisdom” in a dictionary you’d find a definition something like this: “The knowledge of what is right or true and the judgment needed to rightly apply it.” Not a bad explanation. In general, “wisdom” is the ability to make good choices in life. But for the Christian, there is more to it. True wisdom is the ability to make good, godly choices in life.

The Bible acknowledges and teaches that God is the source of wisdom. “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” (Proverbs 9:10). Therefore, if we truly want to live a wise life, we will submit to God and His commands. 

Wisdom literature seeks to help the reader make the best choices in life. Biblical wisdom literature guides the reader to make the best godly choices in life.

Ancient teachers of wisdom wanted their students to remember what they learned. Therefore, they employed various literary techniques to make their wisdom memorable. Wisdom teachers used literary tools like poetry (Psalm 73), acrostics (Proverbs 31), alliteration (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8), word pictures like similes and metaphors (Psalm 1), parables, allegories, riddles, and more.

Before we break down the different types or styles of wisdom writing, let’s consider one thing to keep in mind with all wisdom literature. Ancient wisdom writing is grounded in ancient life. The wisdom teachers used examples and images from a culture and time very different from ours. But the core wisdom is timeless, valuable, and applicable to our lives today. 

4 Types and Tips for Understanding

The genre of “wisdom” literature includes several specific types or different styles of wisdom writing. While the various wisdom books of the Bible may use a primary style, most include multiple types. 

Proverbs 

A proverb is a brief, pithy statement expressing a principle about life that is generally true. They state simple, observable declarations about life in easy-to-remember terms. To this end, the teachers used a lot of imagery and figurative language. They do not teach doctrine or consider every possibility that may impact a given situation. Proverbs are principles, not promises. They teach probable truth, not absolute truth. (Also see “3 Tips to Help You Understand Proverbs.”)

Tips for understanding proverbs:

Seek the underlying principle. Look beyond any imagery and figurative language to find the foundational timeless principle. View it as a principle, not a promise. These guidelines for wise living don’t cover every possible scenario or circumstance. They do not guarantee outcomes, but rather give us the best opportunity for a desired outcome.Don’t impose our modern, Western mindset and values. Remember proverbs are based in ancient culture and ancient standardsPoetry 

Poetry comprises 33% of the Old Testament. There are various types of poetry, including prayers, songs, liturgies, and wisdom.

Parallelism is the basic foundation of ancient Hebrew poetry.  This literary devise combines two lines that focus on a single idea. Although there are numerous variations of parallelism, most are slight variations of two primary types. In “synonymous parallelism” the second line enhances, adds to, and agrees with the first. In “contrastive parallelism” the second line stands in contrast or opposition to the first. 

Because of this basic structure, we understand that the second line does not express a new idea but rather teaches us something more about the first line. (See also “How to Read Hebrew Poetry” and “5 Tips to Help You Understand the Psalms.”)

Tips for understanding poetry:

Consider the parallelism – Remember that the second line is not separate and distinct from the first line, but a reflection of it.Keep the whole poem in mind – Each poem is a unit. Each verse must be considered in light of the overall context.Watch for word pictures – Literary devices like metaphors, similes, and hyperbole are not intended to be taken literally. Look for the spiritual truth the word picture teaches.Instruction

This type of wisdom writing is a brief exhortation or command urging the hearer to obey. The teacher’s purpose is to persuade the hearer to adopt or stop certain behavior. The teacher’s goal is to help the hearer. The instruction usually includes the command and a reason to obey. These can be short or more lengthy. (See Ecclesiastes 8:2-3, 12:13 for examples.)

Tips for understanding wisdom instruction:

Identify the primary command – The command may be surrounded by clauses that support and explain. Boil it all down to the one, basic instruction.Recognize the benefit – Usually the teacher encourages his readers to obey his instruction by telling them how obedience will benefit them. Examine your life in light of this command – Wisdom is meant to be applied! Personal Story or Reflection

Wisdom teachers often share a key truth or moral he learned from either personal experience, watching the experience of someone else, or from deeply thinking about things he has observed in the world. After telling the story or relating his observations, the author concludes with his moral. This type of wisdom writing is heavy in Ecclesiastes. See Ecclesiastes 4:1-3 and 4:7-12 for examples.

Tips for understanding personal story/reflection:

Summarize or restate the primary moral of the story – Identify the basic wise principle the teacher made with his story. This moral will be timeless, crossing all historical and cultural gaps. Double-check your conclusion – The components of the teacher’s story will support the moral. If they don’t, rethink your conclusion.Determine how the moral can be applied – Check your life against the key truth of the story.The value of ancient wisdom

Although there are things outside our control that impact our circumstances, much of our life will be determined by the choices and decisions we make. The wisdom books of the Bible teach us how to apply God’s wisdom to our lives today. The more we fill our minds with God’s truth and align our thinking with His, the more we will naturally begin to exercise godly wisdom. 

Have you done much reading or study in one of the Bible’s wisdom books? If so, what’s your favorite?

Help for Understanding the Bible’s Wisdom Books by Kathy Howard.

Familiar Bible passages are a bit like old friends. Because we’ve known them so long and are so comfortable around them, we don’t expect to find anything new or different when we’re with them. And if there was something about them we didn’t know, we might miss it simply because we aren’t looking. 

Some passages in Scripture are so familiar to us we might think there’s nothing more to be learned from them. After all, we’ve read them countless times. We’ve heard sermons on these passages. We’ve done Bible studies on them. But if we think we know everything about even the most familiar passages, we would be wrong! We will never be able to plumb the depths of God’s Word. 

One of my examples

I thought about this recently when I read 1 Corinthians 13, the “love chapter.” I’ve read this passage dozens and maybe even hundreds of times. I’ve highlighted, underlined, and made notes. I’ve identified spiritual truths and timeless principles. But that day it impacted me in a new way. God gave me a greater understanding of the relationship between love and the spiritual gifts He gives us. God also called me to repentance for not always using the gifts He gave me in a truly loving way.

Just a word of caution here. We can only learn something “new” from a passage in that it’s new to us. Every verse in the Bible has just one meaning, the one God originally gave it. The truths are eternally the same. We will NEVER find something “new” that wasn’t there before. But God can teach us things we weren’t previously ready to understand.

Every time we study Scripture we continue to build our knowledge and understanding of God, His will, and His ways. There are some things we can’t understand before we’ve learned something else. And every time we return to a previously studied passage, we are in the middle of different life circumstances. God will then apply the same spiritual truths to our life in a different way. 

5 tips for reading familiar Bible passages: Read it from a different translation – Some passages are so familiar we almost have them memorized without even trying. But, if we read the passage from a less familiar translation, our minds won’t get ahead of our reading. We will begin to notice things we hadn’t seen before. Also, if you read from a translation that falls in a different translation category than your usual one, it will add even more benefit. (For more on this, see “ Why Are There So Many Bible Translations? ”)Pretend you’ve never read it before – First, set aside any preconceived ideas so the Holy Spirit can teach you. Then, even if you’ve studied this passage countless times, do it again like it’s the first time. Don’t skip any steps. (Also see  “What is Inductive Bible Study? ” and  “4 R Bible Study for Everyday Use .”)Don’t hurry – It’s oh so easy to rush through familiar tasks. And it’s tempting to skim passages we feel we know well. But when we hurry, we don’t allow any space for the Holy Spirit to teach us, to speak to us. Observe it – Ask it questions. Mark it up. Look for something you haven’t noticed before. (Also see “ 10 Observation Tips for Better Bible Study ” and “ Do You Mark in Your Bible? Reasons You Should .”)Look for new application – Every passage may have just one meaning, but those truths have endless applications for our lives. Our circumstances change. We change as we grow older and grow spiritually. God can take a truth you learned 30 years ago and hit you upside the head with it in a totally different way. So, even if you don’t technically learn a principle or truth you didn’t know before, ask God how he wants to apply those long-known things to your current circumstances. (Also see “ 4 Ways to Apply Scripture to Your Life. ”)

What are some passage that fall into this familiar category for you?

5 Tips for Reading Familiar Bible Passages by Kathy Howard.

I used to think it showed God disrespect to mark in your Bible, so I didn’t. But years later my understanding changed. God’s words, His divinely inspired message is perfect and holy but the ink and paper on which it’s printed is not. I also heard many godly men and women who marked all over their Bibles. 

Henry Blackaby, pastor and author of Experiencing God, always marked in his Bible. He highlighted, marked, and write all over it. I heard him talk about it one time. When he filled one, he started over with a new Bible. He planned to keep them to pass to his grandchildren.

Writing in your Bible is not new or trendy. Dwight L Moody, the 19th century evangelist and author, wrote in his Bible and encouraged others to do it too. In his book “How to Study the Bible,” Moody wrote “Mark your Bible, and instead of it being dry and uninteresting, it will become a beautiful book to you.”

I was convinced, I just didn’t know how to start.

Then I begin to do Inductive Bible Study. The first step – observation – is all about digging into the passage and asking it questions to see what is there. Observation seeks to determine what the passage says. We must know what it says before we can know what it means. In this first step, we need to record our observations. Although there are different ways to do this, I love to do it right in my Bible. (See also “What is Inductive Bible Study?” and “10 Observation Tips for Better Bible Study.“)

What about you? Do you mark in your Bible?  If not, consider the following reasons to start.

3 Reasons to Mark in Your BibleMakes it come alive – When I mark and write in my Bible I feel as though I am physically interacting with it. I touch it, feel it, take it in. Simply reading is far more passive. When I mark in my Bible it is much harder to walk away from the truths I discover. They scream to be applied.Implants the passage in our hearts and minds – Marking, highlighting, and writing helps us remember what we read. When we engage more senses and activity in our study time, our learning and memory skyrocketIncreases our understanding – The marking process helps us observe the text. And when we observe we actually begin to “see what it says.” That’s the first step in solid Bible study.6 Ways to do it

Exactly how you choose to write in your Bible is a matter of preference. The goal is to do it in a way that most benefits your study, understanding, and application of God’s Word. Everyone learns differently. You may want to try a few different ways to see what best fits you.

Color-coding or highlighting – Some people use colored pencils or different colored pens to mark or write. I use 6 different colored highlighters. For instance, I use orange to highlight key words and yellow for facts. When I look back at a page these things pop out at me. (See also “ Look for Key Words When You Study the Bible” and “ Bible Highlighting for More Effective Bible Study .”)Symbols – Kay Arthur teaches an expanded system of symbols for marking a passage. Although it works for many people, I tried this for one study and found it too tedious. However, I do use at least one basic symbol to make certain things stand out. For instance, I put a box around connecting words like “but,” “therefore,” “so,” and other words that show connection between two parts of a passage. Emphasis Marks – This may include using asterisks, arrows, underlining or something similar to draw your eye to particular element of the text. For instance, Dwight Moody used his pen to go over key words to make them boldly stand out from the rest. I sometimes use an asterisk next to key spiritual principles in the text.Numbering – You can add small numbers next to words or phrases in the text to keep up with multiples of things. It could be repeated key words, promises, characteristics, or anything that you could make a list out of. Lines – I often draw thin lines to make connections from one part of a passage to another. Particularly if a topic in that days passage directly relates to something I read the day before. (Of course this only works if these two sections are on the same page!)Writing – I love my wide-margin journaling Bible. Because it provides extra space for writing. I use the margin to record my observations and note things like cross-references or definitions for original language. Others write things like points from sermons they heard on the passage or how God used the passage for personal application. (See also “ Bible Journaling can Enhance Your Bible Study. “)

What about you? If you write in your Bible already, I’d love to hear how you do it. If you don’t yet write in your Bible, I’d love to hear why or if this post has changed your mind! Leave your thoughts in the comment section of the blog page.

Do You Mark in Your Bible? Reasons You Should. by Kathy Howard.

Ever wonder just how you should apply Scripture to your life? It can be overwhelming. While every passage in the Bible has just one original meaning, the specific application for an individual’s life can be virtually endless. And, the application can change depending on our circumstances and level of spiritual maturity. (For more on good, solid Bible study methods see “What is Inductive Bible Study?” and “The 4 R Bible Study Method.”)

However, God’s Word gives us some guidance about ways God wants to use His truths in our lives. In Paul’s second letter to his spiritual son Timothy, God inspired Paul to write some truths about Scripture that show specific ways God wants to use it in our lives: 

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 

Four Ways to Apply Scripture

The following are four broad categories for application to guide your time in God’s Word. Each category includes various ways to specifically apply Scripture.

1. Teaching (Doctrine) – What to BELIEVE

God’s Word tells us what we should believe about God and His Kingdom. What we believe about God matters. Right thinking leads to right living. What we believe and how we think reveals itself in our character and behavior. 

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 NLT

Our spiritual transformation begins in our minds. As our thinking aligns with God’s thinking the Holy Spirit shapes us more and more into the image of Christ.

As you observe a Bible passage for what you should believe, here are some of the things you can note or record:

Truths about God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy SpiritTruths about salvationKey truths and spiritual principles – these can be taught in stories, word pictures, comparisons and contrasts, and more. For instance, consider what Jesus’ statement, “I am the bread of life” in John 6:35 teaches us about Jesus.2. Reproof (rebuke) – When to REPENT

A reproof or rebuke reveals a need for repentance. It reveals something that’s wrong in our lives like a behavior that goes against God’s holy character. In these cases, God wants us to stop what we are doing or where we are going.

As you read and observe a Bible passage, look for things like negative commands or negative examples. For instance, Ephesians 4:25 commands us to “put away falsehood.” And Peter’s denial of Jesus on the night He was arrested serves as an example for us of what not to do!

3. Correction (obedience in the right direction) – What to OBEY

Biblical correction is different than rebuke. Rather than stopping wrong behavior, correction is meant to instill right behavior. To get us going in the right direction and to foster behavior that pleases God. 

As you read and observe a Bible passage, look for positive commands and positive examples in biblical narrative. For instance, “Submit to one another in love” (Ephesians 5:21) is a positive command. And Peter’s obedience to go to the home of the Gentile Cornelius to share the Gospel is a positive example (Acts 10). I felt it only fair to also share a positive example of our friend Peter! 

4. Training (spiritual growth) – Where to SUBMIT 

God uses Scripture to shape our character and underlying attitudes. He can do this by adjusting our beliefs, building our trust in God, purifying our character, instilling humility, growing in holiness, and so much more.

As you read and observe a passage, ask the Holy Spirit to be your teacher, to show you how He wants to use God’s truths in your life. Then the hard part is submitting to the Spirit’s work because it often involves trials, rebuke, and correction. But we must allow God to do His work.

Some General Helps for Better Bible Study

Before we can apply a Bible study passage, we need to observe it to see what’s there and interpret God’s original meaning. Th following are some resources to help you do just that!

4 Tips for Handling Difficult PassagesThe 4 R Bible Study Method for Everyday UseVideo Teaching on the 4 R Bible Study Method4 Tips to Help You Understand the Bible10 Observation Tips for Better Bible Study

4 Ways To Apply Scripture to Your Life by Kathy Howard.

The book of Hebrews was written to believers who were spiritually tired and needed encouragement to keep going. The following post is adapted from Kathy’s new devotional book “Deep Rooted: Growing through the Book of Hebrews.“

My husband and I enjoy spending time on St John, the smallest of the three U.S. Virgin Islands. However, getting there is not easy. It requires planes, taxis, and a ferry. But weary travelers are rewarded with incredible beauty and the peace that comes from smaller crowds. We wanted to share our favorite island paradise with our kids and grandkids, so a few years ago we arranged a family trip. Our group of thirteen ranged in age from almost three to sixty-three.

They exhibited a lot of excitement on the first leg of the trip. But by the time we changed planes in Miami, then landed in St. Thomas, where we endured a long wait for our luggage even the most travel-hardy among us were weary. And of course, the little ones just wanted it to be over. Wayne and I tried to energize them with descriptions of the sunsets and stories about our favorite beaches and snorkeling trips. While our efforts didn’t accomplish a complete makeover, it did bolster them enough to finish the journey. By the end of the vacation they all declared they would do it again!

The Hebrew Christians were Spiritually Tired

The Jewish Christians who first received the letter we know today as “Hebrews” were “road weary.” Following Jesus had led them into some painful, difficult places. Although they had not yet died for their faith, they had endured public reproach, imprisonment, and the confiscation of their property. Due to this persecution, they were considering abandoning their faith in Jesus and returning to Judaism. So the author of Hebrews harshly warned them that if they rejected Jesus they would not find salvation in the Jewish faith (Hebrews 10:26-31). The Law of Moses only revealed sin, it could not cleanse it.  (Also see “3 Reasons to Read and Study Hebrews.” and “10 Characteristics of Faith from the Hall of Faith.”)

Then the author followed the warning with an exhortation to hold onto their faith in Christ. He asked them to remember what they’d already endured and urged them to keep an eternal focus. He also encouraged them to patience. God might seem slow to deliver, but if they persevered, the Messiah would return and bring justice. The earthly hardships would soon pass, but the spiritual benefits would last forever.

Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward.For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised. (Hebrews 10:35-36)

We can Experience Joy in Suffering

The author also reminded them of their joy in the face of past suffering (Hebrews 10:34). Although seemingly counterintuitive, we see this spiritual principle throughout Scripture. For instance, Peter described suffering for Christ as a blessing and privilege because the “Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you” (1 Peter 4:14). Persecution in this life for the name of Christ makes us partners with Him in His suffering and means we will share in His glory in the life to come (1 Peter 4:13). 

Like these first century Jewish Christians, too often our fear of persecution outweighs our joy of anticipation. But we must not become discouraged and turn back. Suffering is temporary, but the reward is eternal. Let’s keep our eyes on Jesus and our focus on eternity. One day our temporary suffering will yield to unimaginable blessing. 

Does the promise of Jesus’ return impact your daily life? What can you do to foster an eager expectation of His appearing?

This post was adapted from Kathy’s new devotional book  “Deep Rooted: Growing through the Book of Hebrews.”

More about “Deep Rooted: Growing through the Book of Hebrews”

Are you spiritually exhausted? Following Jesus can be hard. Discouragement, difficulties, and defeat often wear us down. So, why bother? The book of Hebrews answers that question. This 40-day devotional journey provides encouragement to run our race of faith with endurance and reminds us that our Savior is far superior to anything and everything the world can offer.

Like the rest of the Deep Rooted devotional series, the Hebrews volume uses the 4-R Bible study framework to help you learn how to interact with and respond to Scripture, not simply read it. These meaty, daily devotions will increase your hunger for God’s Word, encourage spiritual growth and stability, and lay the groundwork for a life-long, spiritually-healthy habit. 

WANT TO “KICK THE TIRES” BEFORE YOU BUY? DOWNLOAD THIS FREE 5-DAY SAMPLE OF DEEP ROOTED HEBREWS

(See “Deep Rooted: Growing through the Book of Hebrews” on Amazon.)

Are You Spiritually Tired? by Kathy Howard.

Key words are one of the first things to look for when you OBSERVE a Bible passage. Before we can understand what a passage means, we must observe it to know what it says. Observation is the first step in inductive Bible study.  (Also see “What is Inductive Bible Study,” “The 4 R Bible Study Method,” “10 Observation Tips for Better Bible Study,” and “9 Tips to Help You Interpret the Bible.”) 

While not every passage you read will have obvious key words, many will. With just a little practice, this tool of the biblical author will become easier to spot.

What are Key Words and Phrases

Biblical authors often taught through repetition. They emphasized important points and truths by using the same words or phrases over and over. The author intentionally used this repetition to draw our attention. This literary tool is like shining a spot light on a speaker on a stage. Listen up. Notice this. This is important. 

Recognizing these repeated words or phrases are key to understanding the author’s main point. We don’t have to guess what’s important because the author clearly shows us. 

When you look for key words in a passage, be sure to record them in some way. I use an orange highlighter to mark every instance of the key word in a passage. That way they jump off the page. But come up with a way that makes sense to you. For instance, you could record them in a journal or write them in the margin of your Bible. (Also see “Bible Highlighting for More Effective Bible Study.”)

Key words might be a noun, an adjective, or a verb. And it’s not just single words the biblical authors used this way. They also used phrases and clauses. (I give some examples below.)

When you look for key words, also look for variations. The author might use different tenses of the same word. For instance, in Hebrews 12:26-28, the author used “shake” and various tenses (“shook” and “shaken”) five times.  

Be sure to include any pronouns or synonyms the author used in place of the word to mean the same thing. For instance, in Philippians 1:12-17 Paul used the word “imprisonment” (ESV) three times. But he also used the word “here” to refer to prison, so he used the same key word four times in that short passage. 

Different Ways the Biblical Authors Used Key WordsSaturation in a short passage

This is the most noticeable use of key words and phrases in Scripture. When we see the same word of phrase used multiple times in a short passage it really jumps out at us. 

For instance, in Psalm 136, the psalmist used the clause “His love endures forever” 26 times in 26 verses. That makes it pretty clear what he wanted us to understand. God’s love is faithful and eternal. 

In John 1:4-9 the Gospel writer included the word “light” seven times to describe Jesus and His work. John obviously wanted us to learn something about Jesus and His nature.

Repetition through a whole book

John also used the word “light” 27 times through the whole Gospel. When you read the book in a short time frame it’s noticeable. John wanted us to see “light” as a theme of his Gospel. 

Running theme through the whole Bible 

I’ve also noticed that “light” is a theme throughout God’s Word. 

From…

And God said, “Let there be light” (Genesis 1:3) 

To…

And night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever. (Revelation 22:5)

And all in-between…

To provide structure

Sometimes an author used a repeated key phrase to help organize his material. For instance, in the book of Judges, the author used the phrase “And the people of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the LORD” seven times. Each time it introduced the start of a repeated cycle – the people sinned, God judged their sin through enemy oppression, the people cried out for help, and God raised up a judge to help them.

To show a change or shift

I just studied the Gospel of John so I have lots of examples from this incredible book. In John, he referred to Jesus’ “hour” seven times. The first three times Jesus said His “hour has not yet come.” The last four times He said “the hour has come.” John wanted us to notice this important change. In the first half of the book, John focused on Jesus’ ministry and preparation of His disciples. Then the time came for Him to turn toward the cross. His ministry was over, the time had come for Him to lay down His life. 

To establish a pattern

In the passage commonly referred to as “The Hall of Faith” (Hebrews 11:1-40), the author used “by faith” eighteen times. This repetition not only highlights the author’s main point, it also set a pattern for his list of examples. All his examples showed that if we want to please God we will life “by faith.” We don’t just have faith we must live by it. No matter our circumstances or when we lived. (If you want to learn more about the book of Hebrews see my new devotional book “Deep Rooted: Growing through the Book of Hebrews.”)

Have you ever marked key words in a passage before? If so, how do you mark or record them?

Look for Key Words When You Study the Bible by Kathy Howard.

Do you have a plan for your summer Bible study? School’s out and many of the women’s Bible study groups have ended until the fall. It’s easy to let time in God’s Word fall by the wayside during this fun and less structured time of year. But that doesn’t have to happen.

We all need regular, consistent time with God. Yes, summer schedules make it more difficult, but it’s not impossible. With just a little planning and an intentional attitude you can make God’s Word a priority even now.

The following suggestions include a range of different types of Bible study opportunities. Some are resources I provide and others are from sources I trust.

Private Facebook Bible Reading Group

I’ve been leading “Reading the Bible Together” on Facebook for almost 10 years. This encouraging, active community includes women of all ages and walks of life who want to be in God’s Word. The members pray for one another and welcome all.

We read through one Bible book at a time, maintaining a pace that allows us to go a little deeper. The group fits any schedule, you can stop in anytime. We have women from all over the world so everyone reads and comments when it works best for them. Here’s the details:

Summer Study: 1 & 2 CorinthiansFormat: Daily written group posts for reading assignment, questions, and discussionIntroduction: Saturday, June 22, 2024 Readings & Discussion: Begins Monday, June 24, 2024Cost: FREEResources needed: Your Bible and a journal or notebook or the “ Deep Rooted Journal. “

To Join, follow this link to “Reading the Bible Together,” request to join, and answer the three easy questions. Note: Currently we are about halfway through Hebrews but we begin a new book in June. You are welcome to join now to see how it all works. If you want to hop into Hebrews that’s fine too!

How the group works:

Readings & discussion questions for Monday through FridayDaily posts scheduled for 5am Central timeAverages 20-30 verses a dayFormatted to help you get into the Word for yourselfThis group is FREENew Bible books begin immediately after one endsYou can start and stop at any timePersonal or In-person small group study

There are so many resources available to help you study the Bible on your own. Or you could invite a few women to join you. You could meet once a week in someone’s home to make it cozy and casual. Here’s some ideas:

Bible reading plan – I’ve got several on my website, but you can find others on BibleGateway or YouVersion apps.Deep Rooted book – Each volume of my “ meaty” devotional series works through one book of the Bible using a simple inductive study method . Each volume is either 40 or 50 days of reading and discussion so that works great for a summer Bible study. You may even have time for two. Choose from Mark , Acts , Romans , or Hebrews . Deep Rooted: Growing through the Book of Hebrews is the newest volume! If your faith feels a little road weary, this beautiful encouraging Bible book may be just what you need! By the way. “Deep Rooted: Growing through the Gospel of John” is coming in September.Your own Bible reading plan – Pick a book of the Bible or a topic. Decide how many days of reading you want to cover and map out what you’ll break it down. To help you gain confidence in your Bible study see “ The 4 R Bible Study Method.” LifeWay Women Online Summer Bible Study

This online study provides video teaching and group discussion through LifeWay’s online platform.

Study: “ Come Home” by Caroline SaundersFormat: Weekly video teachings, 7-sessions Begins: June 13, 2024Cost: No cost to participate, but participants must buy the bookResources: The Bible study “ Come Home” is requiredJennie Allen Online Book Study

This 6-session, online video teaching is based on Allen’s book “Untangle Your Emotions.” Check it out HERE.

Format: Video teachingBegins: June 10, 2024Cost: No cost to participate, but you’ll want the book “Untangle Your Emotions” Resources: “ Untangle Your Emotions, ” Additional free downloadable resources providedNote: The Amazon links to the book are my affiliate link.

Do you have a plan for summer Bible study? I’d love to hear how you will be intentional about staying in God’s Word.

Summer Bible Study Suggestions by Kathy Howard.

Jesus wasn’t just a master teacher, He was THE master teacher. Jesus amazed the crowds. He taught with authority, not like the scribes (Matthew 7:28-29). Even the temple guards declared they never heard anyone teach like Jesus (John 7:45-46). The Pharisee Nicodemus recognized that Jesus was a teacher sent by God (John 3:2).

Jesus wanted His disciples and the crowds to both grasp and remember His teaching. To make it engaging and memorable, Jesus used a variety of teaching methods. To best grasp the truths Jesus communicated, we need to recognizing the teaching method He used and how it should be and understood.  (See also “4 Tips for Understanding the Gospels.” and “The 4 R Bible Study Method.“)

TEACHING METHODS OF JESUS1. Hyperbole

A hyperbole is a purposeful exaggeration of the truth to make a big impact by engaging our emotions. The shock of the statement is meant to rouse us from lethargy. 

Typically, hyperbole is easy to spot. For instance, Jesus said, “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:26). But, in other passages Jesus taught we should honor our parents (Mark 7:8-13) and He would not contradict Himself. So, we can know Jesus used hyperbole to emphasize that He must be first and foremost in our lives.

2. Parable 

A parable is a story told to illustrate an important truth. Although they do appear in the Old Testament (2 Samuel 12:1-2), we are most familiar with them because Jesus often used them as a teaching tool. We should not treat parables as allegories, but rather look for the general principles illustrated by the story that teach spiritual truths. Considering the surrounding literary context in which Jesus told the parable can help us recognize the points He wanted to make with the parable.

3. Metaphor and Simile

Both of these figures of speech compare one thing to another. One item in the pair is usually something common and familiar used to help us understand something less familiar or understood. The primary difference between a metaphor and simile is that similes include “like” or “as” in its comparison. We find these throughout Scripture including in the teachings of Jesus. For instance, when Jesus sent out His disciples He used a simile: “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16).

Jesus also used many metaphors to help us understand His divine nature.  “I am the bread of life” (John 6:35). “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12). We know that Jesus is not literally a loaf of bread. But the metaphor teaches us that He alone provides life. He alone sustains us spiritually. 

4. Miraculous signs

In his Gospel account, John used the word “sign” to refer to the miraculous works Jesus performed. John’s stated purpose in recording the seven signs he selected out of the “many others” Jesus did was so people would believe in Jesus for eternal life (John 20:30-31). The miracles confirmed that everything Jesus said and taught about the Father, the Kingdom of God, the way of salvation, and Himself were indeed true. 

Jesus also performed signs to teach specific truths about Himself. In addition to ministering to His friends, Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead to teach prove He has the power over life and death. Jesus is the “resurrection and the life” (John 11:15, 26-27). Jesus fed 5,000 plus people from a small boy’s lunch to feed the hungry crowd, yes, but more importantly to teach His disciples that He alone gives spiritual satisfaction. But they failed to grasp it (Mark 7:52).

5. Proverbial Sayings

A proverb is a short, pithy statement that communicates an observable truth about life in a memorable way. They are not used to communicate absolute truth but rather wise generalizations about life. If we do such and such, usually this will happen. 

Jesus used a lot of these. Maybe the most well-known is the one often referred to as the Golden Rule. “And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them” (Luke 6:31). Here’s a couple more:

“A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master” (Matthew 10:24).“And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand” (Mark 3:25).

To best understand the proverb, focus on the general principle Jesus taught but don’t consider it a promise or non-negotiable truth. (Also see “3 Tips to Help You Understand Proverbs.“)

By the way, this is not an exhaustive list of Jesus’ teaching style. For instance, He also used questions, and object lessons, and conversation to teach. But these will get you started! (See also “6 Preaching Methods Jesus Used” and “The Teachings of Jesus.“)

What is your favorite teaching methods of Jesus?

5 Teaching Methods of Jesus by Kathy Howard.

Some Christians avoid reading or studying the book of Hebrews. I’ve heard various reasons for this. Some think Hebrews is more difficult to read than the other New Testament epistles. (Also see “8 Tips to Help You Understand the Epistles.“) Others don’t like the abundance of Old Testament references and imagery. I’ve even heard that some think Hebrews is just for Jewish Christians.

Whatever your reason, if you have been neglecting this important book I hope this post will encourage you to open your Bible to the book of Hebrews and start reading. Every word in God’s Word – from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 – is valuable for His people. (See also “Finding Treasure in the Boring Parts of the Bible.”)

3 Reasons to Dive into the Book of HebrewsTo connect the dots between the Old Testament and the New Testament – Some Christians also avoid reading the Old Testament because they think it’s not relevant for Christians. After all, we are under the New Covenant! But the Old Covenant revealed in the Old Testament laid the foundation for the New Covenant. Same God, same purposes, same plan. The New Covenant through Christ fulfilled everything God began with the Old. Reading and studying the Old Testament gives us a greater understanding and appreciation of what Christ accomplished for us. All the elements of the Old Covenant – the priest, sacrificial system, tabernacle, Jewish festivals, and more – reflect Christ. They are shadows of the much greater spiritual reality. The book of Hebrews beautifully describes these truths. The author shows us the inseparable relationship between the Old Covenant and the New. Reading Hebrews will help you fall in love with the Old Testament! (See also “6 Reasons to Read and Study the Old Testament ” and “ Look for Jesus in the Old Testament. “)To experience spiritual encouragement – The original audience of Hebrews were considering abandoning Jesus and returning to Judaism. They were discouraged by the spiritual persecution they faced. Following Jesus was harder than they expected and they weren’t sure they could continue. You may have felt that same way. You may not have been tempted to turn to anything religion, but perhaps you may have cooled in your devotion to Jesus because following Him was not easy. The author of Hebrews poignantly reminds us that nothing the world can offer compares to Jesus. Knowing Him and experiencing the salvation that only He gives is superior to any and everything else. The book reminds us to cling to Jesus and keep our eyes on His future, eternal promises. What Jesus has for us now and in eternity is worth far more than temporary comfort in this life. (See also “ 10 Characteristics of Faith from the Hebrews Hall of Faith. “)To gain a deeper understanding of Jesus – Hebrews digs deep into the character, nature, and work of Jesus. The author touches on Jesus as Son and King, but particularly emphasizes the role of Jesus as our great High Priest. As High Priest, He has offered a superior sacrifice and instituted a better covenant. And as our great High Priest, Jesus gives us bold confidence to approach God’s throne of grace. A better appreciation of these deep theological truths will help us better worship our superior Savior.Have I convinced you?

Ready to dig into Hebrews?Check out my newest book “Deep Rooted: Growing through the Book of Hebrews” This 4th volume of the meaty Deep Rooted devotional series takes you through this book of the Bible in 40 days. The book uses a simple inductive study method to help you understand and apply the eternal truths in this beautiful book. Find out more about the book here or see it on Amazon.

If you ‘ve read or studied Hebrews, what stuck with you from this beautiful book?

3 Reasons to Read and Study Hebrews by Kathy Howard.

Today, most scholars admit that we don’t know who wrote Hebrews. However, the church’s opinion about the identity of the author has changed over the centuries. 

Quick history of Church’s Opinion

No evidence from the first century exists today. Support for Paul as the author grew in the eastern church from the 2nd through the 4th century. The western church resisted Pauline authorship until late in the 4th century. Then in A.D. 419, at the Sixth Synod of Carthage, the church officially assigned Hebrews to the list of Paul’s epistles. (Also see “Who Wrote the Bible and Why Does it Matter?” and “8 Tips to Help You Understand the Epistles.“)

During the Reformation in the 16th century, John Calvin and Martin Luther reopened the debate by challenging Pauline authorship. For the last 500 years, scholarly suggestions for author have included Barnabas, Luke, Apollos, and the husband and wife team Aquila and Priscilla. 

Things we do know about who wrote Hebrews

Although the author does not name himself, clues pack the letter. Consider the following details and characteristics:

Received the gospel from those who had heard Jesus, not Jesus Himself (2:3)Knew the recipients personally (13:7, 17, 18, 22)Knew Timothy and possibly ministered with him (13:23)Primarily quoted from the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew ScripturesWell-versed in the Septuagint, Jewish customs, and OT ScripturesHighly educated with an excellent command of GreekDifferent writing style than any other New Testament authorDynamic preacherDemonstrated a pastor’s heart for the spiritual well-being of his flockFacts against Pauline Authorship

If we don’t know who wrote the book of Hebrews, why not Paul? Although a small possibility, the evidence in the letter heavily supports someone other than Paul. Consider these facts:

The writing – Scholars readily admit the grammar and phraseology are different than Paul’s. When I read Hebrews, even my ears hear the difference. Additionally, the elegant Greek is unlike any of Paul’s letters.No authentication – Hebrews includes no author identification or signature. But in 2 Thessalonians 3:18, Paul wrote that he signed every letter in his own hand to prove it genuine.No eyewitness claim – The author described himself as a “second-generation” Christian (2:3), which directly conflicts with Paul’s own testimony. Paul saw Jesus face-to-face (1 Corinthians 9:1) and received the gospel straight from Him (Galatians 1:11-12).  

We can surmise that the author of Hebrews was likely a highly educated, Jewish Christian raised outside of Palestine. He was a “second-generation” believer who came to faith in Christ through the testimony of eye-witnesses. This elegant orator and gifted teacher loved God’s people and longed for their spiritual maturity. We may not know his name, but God does.

Two Ways to Study Hebrews Reading the Bible Together – This ongoing, closed Facebook group will begin reading and studying the Book of Hebrews. The introduction will post on Saturday, April 27. The daily readings and discussion questions will begin on Monday, April 29. The study is conducted through written posts in the FB group. Readings and questions post Monday through Friday only. There is no set time frame, simply stop into the group when it works for you. This group is for women only. To join, follow this link, request membership, then answer the 3 questions. The group is free. However, for this study, you may want to purchase the optional book “Deep Rooted: Growing through the Book of Hebrews.” “Deep Rooted: Growing through the Book of Hebrews” – Check out my newest book! This 4th volume of the meaty Deep Rooted devotional series takes you through this book of the Bible in 40 days. The book uses a simple inductive study method to help you understand and apply the eternal truths in this beautiful book. Find out more about the book here or see it on Amazon.

Let’s talk! Have you ever read or studied the Book of Hebrews? If so, what did you learn or how did it impact your faith?

Who Wrote Hebrews? by Kathy Howard.