The inductive-style Bible Conversations study tool is divided into three parts:  
Observation, Interpretation, and Application.  
 

• OBSERVATION

The purpose of the observation step is to begin internalizing the content of a passage—biting off a chunk of Scripture.  At first we just ask, “What is this?  What is in my mouth?”  Completing the observation chart requires several careful readings of the text to answer these questions.  The who (people), where (places), and when (references to time) sections are straightforward.  For key words, you may wish to record words or phrases that are repeated, something that jumps out at you as significant, or maybe a word that you would like to define in the original language or check cross-references for clarification of meaning.  Finally, condense your factual observations into a brief summary of the passage.  It is easy to get lost in the details.  Summarizing helps us to hone in on and remember the most important points of the text.

 

• INTERPRETATION

The interpretation step takes facts you noted on the observation chart and starts processing head knowledge (information) into heart knowledge (application).  In interpretation, Scripture becomes more personal.  If reading a text can be compared to taking a “bite” of truth, interpretation is akin to chewing on it.  Transition from observation begins with writing titles for each passage division.  This study format then moves to deciding on the passage’s key verse and explaining why you think it is most significant, and identifying what you learn about God (Father, Son, or Holy Spirit) from the text.   When discerning key attributes, know that sometimes the text says plainly: “God is ____”; other times, you will need to make inferences from the recorded actions of the Lord.  The key theme seeks to trace a major emphasis that runs throughout the study.   
 

In the process of observing and interpreting Scripture, sometimes new ideas or exciting discoveries surface.  You may record these in the other insights portion of the study guide.  This is also a great place to jot down something you do not understand and want to ask others during discussion.
 

“Wrestling with the Word” is a worksheet that aims to train students of the Word to dig deeper in their study by defining key Greek/Hebrew words from a passage and exploring related Bible texts (i.e., cross-references).  These study methods promote Scripture-based, more accurate interpretations of the Bible.

 

• APPLICATION

The emphasis in Bible Conversations is application—living the Truth.  After observing the text (biting off) and interpreting it (chewing on), it is time to start really “digesting” it.  The goal in application is to discern why the Lord has included the assigned passage in THE Book, His written revelation of Himself to you.  What does He want you to know about Him?  About you?  How does He want you to respond?  Application means LIVING the Word, allowing it to penetrate your heart, transform your thinking, and change the way you live your life—attitudes, choices, goals, priorities, relationships, etc.
 

Application begins with a truth (principle or lesson) from the assigned text.  Before launching into questions directed at your heart, there will be a few interpretive questions about the passage itself.

 

Finally, the study ends with a section called “SO WHAT?,” a place to reflect on how the Lord has moved in your heart and life through time in His Word.  Summarize what He has impressed upon you, and record how you most need intercession from the body of Christ to grow in this area.