What Is Inductive Study?

This study method is a method that anyone can use.
It involves three skills: observation, interpretation and application.

Observation teaches you to see precisely what the passage says. It is the basis for accurate interpretation and correct application.

Observation answers the question: What does the passage say?

Interpretation answers the question: What does the passage mean?

Application answers the question: What does it mean to me personally?
What truths can I put into practice? What changes should I make in my life?

My dear friend, when you know what God says, what He means, and how to put His truths into practice, you will be equipped for every circumstance of life.

As we go on this adventure together, remember that God can give you insight at any point in your study, so be sensitive to His leading.

Take the Word as He reveals it to you, eat it, every bit of it. Allow it to become part of you, for as James says, it is the implanted Word that is able to save your soul.

As you study the Bible chapter by chapter and book by book, you will grow in your ability to comprehend the whole counsel of God. The result of this is a "wholeness" of spirit, character and life.

The very heart of inductive study is: seeing truth for yourself, discerning what it means, and applying that truth to your life. In His inspired Word, God has given us everything we need to know about life and godliness. But He doesn't stop there. He gives every believer a resident teacher - the Holy Spirit - who guides us into His truth.

I remind you in this introduction that Prayer is a vital key. Far too often prayer is overlooked.

Certainly NO study method apart from the Holy Spirit will be effective.... therefore it is imperative that you begin with prayer. I remind you that it is the indwelling Holy Spirit who guides us in all truth. Jesus told us that the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth would take the things of God and reveal them to us.

I cannot emphasize this point enough... ask the Holy Spirit to guide you as you study the Word. Ask for open ears to hear, and open eyes to see.