Recently, my small group leader introduced a different method of bible study to our group. Its simplicity was compelling because the Sword Method can be used for both personal and family bible study. Let's take a look at how we can use this for family bible study/worship:*
As we open God's word, we can ask for wisdom and insight and for our hearts to be open to what he wants us to learn. We thank him for providing this personal way for us to know him more each day.
Read the passage as though you were reading a novel or children's book out loud. We tend to read the bible with a singular tone and with little animation, which goes against its very dramatic nature! "For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart (Heb. 4:12)." Read the histories of Ruth, Noah, Elijah, Jesus, Paul, etc. with emotion. It can quickly change our perspective.
Ask these questions:
1. What does this passage say about God? His nature? His will?
2. What does this passage say about man?
3. Is there a sin to avoid? Is there a promise we can trust? Is there a command to obey? Is there an example to follow?
Allow for silent moments to ponder! Silence is uncomfortable at times but can lead to a great discussion.
When you have little ones, this is when you are instructing more and discussing less. As your kids get older, this is a great opportunity to gain insight into their walk with God and how they process what they're reading.
But what if you've never had family bible time/worship? What if you don't know the bible very well? What if you're a new believer? Where do you start?
My son, if you accept my words w
and store up my commands within you,
listening closely x to wisdom
and directing your heart to understanding;
furthermore, if you call out to insight
and lift your voice to understanding,
if you seek it like silver
and search for it like hidden treasure, y
then you will understand the `fear of the LORD
and discover the knowledge of God.
For the LORD gives wisdom;
from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.
(Proverbs 2:1–6)
` No single English word conveys every aspect of the word fear in this phrase. The meaning includes worshipful submission, reverential awe, and obedient respect to the covenant-keeping God of Israel.
The easiest way to start is in the book of John in the New Testament. Don't rely on your knowledge or let your lack of biblical knowledge intimidate you. The Holy Spirit, "whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you (John 14:26)." Lean into that promise and ask him to do just that for you and your family.
Just as Paul prayed over us, pray over your kids, "I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms (Eph. 1:17-20).”
Reading and studying God's word can be intimidating, but let's not let that fear stop us from using the best tool we have for knowing God more and learning how we can serve him.
*This image was borrowed from https://pursuitbible.com/easiest-way-to-study-the-bible/.
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