How to study inductively?

Observation

What does the text say?

• This step is simply observing what the text says. The more time spent on this step, the easier the next two steps will be. Many answers to these questions will be obvious. Examples of observation questions include:

• Who? Who is speaking? To whom are they speaking? Who else is involved?

• What? What is the subject? What is the verb? What is being contrasted?

• Where? Where is this taking place? Is it all happening in one location, or is there a change in locations?

• When? When is this taking place? Is there a change in the timing of events?

Interpretation

What does the text mean?

• The second step goes deeper to uncover the meaning of the text. Observations and context will help immensely. Examples of interpretation questions include:

• Why? Why did the author include this detail? Why was that word used here?

• How? How would the recipient of this letter have felt? How could the recipient rely on the information given to him or her?

• What was the author's intent here?

Application

How does the text apply to my life?

• This step is crucial for heart transformation. It interprets the meaning of the text and shows how it changes me. Examples of application questions include: 

• What is one thing I can do differently this week to reflect what I see in this passage? 

• How can I let go of the need for control in this part of my life and surrender it to the Lord?