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How to Study the Bible
“It is vital for every Christian to know how to study the Bible. My prayer for you is that you study the Word of God. Fight for it. Obey it. Love it. Honor it. And believe it.” –Dr. John MacArthur This book will help you do it. How to Study the Bible is a nonintimidating guide that answers both the “why” and “how” of Bible study. In this revised work, Dr. John MacArthur examines various Scripture passages in the Old and New Testaments. Drawing from years of experience, he clearly lays out biblical truths and follows them with practical steps. Complete with questions for review and thoughts for reflection at the end of each section, this thorough, insightful, and concise reference will serve as an excellent resource for personal or group Bible study.
144 pages, Paperback
First published November 8, 1985
About the author
John F. MacArthur Jr.
853 books1,644 followersJohn F. MacArthur, Jr. is a United States Calvinistic evangelical writer and minister, noted for his radio program entitled Grace to You and as the editor of the Gold Medallion Book Award winning MacArthur Study Bible. MacArthur is a fifth-generation pastor, a popular author and conference speaker and has served as pastor-teacher of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California since 1969, and as President of The Master's College (and the related Master's Seminary) in Santa Clarita, California.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
May 21, 2021
John MacArthur is one of my most favorite Bible teacher/preachers. He makes studying the Bible interesting and he even has a sense of humor.
He has been at the same church since I graduated from high school.
That's saying something in this day !
This is not a book for everyone, but it was perfect for me
He has been at the same church since I graduated from high school.
That's saying something in this day !
This is not a book for everyone, but it was perfect for me
September 28, 2009
I bought this book because I know anything by this author is going to be good. However, I did go into reading this book with the expectation that it would be the nuts and bolts of how to study the Bible; like tips and how-to's of what to do to get the most out of your daily Bible reading. While there were many tips and practical suggestions, this book was way beyond a simple self-help book. Dr. MacArthur digs deep, yet in a simple way, of how to study the Bible. From the why we should study, to the benefits of study, and who can study, along with how we study...you will refer to this book over and over again.
I am ready to jump into studying the Bible with an excitement I have never experienced before due to a new and more in depth understanding of how I can study without spending all day trying to understand.
This book has prompted me to start a new pattern in my daily Bible reading and also helped me understand even better how to use the resources I have to compliment my reading.
Whether you are a veteran of intense Bible Study or a newbie trying to learn the ropes, you will both benefit and enjoy this easy reading book that packs a powerful punch!
I am ready to jump into studying the Bible with an excitement I have never experienced before due to a new and more in depth understanding of how I can study without spending all day trying to understand.
This book has prompted me to start a new pattern in my daily Bible reading and also helped me understand even better how to use the resources I have to compliment my reading.
Whether you are a veteran of intense Bible Study or a newbie trying to learn the ropes, you will both benefit and enjoy this easy reading book that packs a powerful punch!
August 10, 2022
Short, basic, and helpful.
“We have no way of preventing ourselves from being led into sin, unless we can bring the Word of God into our conscious minds. Let me give you something basic to understand: We’ll never function on what we don’t know. We’ll never be able to apply a truth or principle we haven’t discovered. So as we feed into our minds the Word of God, it becomes the resource by which the Spirit of God directs and guides.”
“We have no way of preventing ourselves from being led into sin, unless we can bring the Word of God into our conscious minds. Let me give you something basic to understand: We’ll never function on what we don’t know. We’ll never be able to apply a truth or principle we haven’t discovered. So as we feed into our minds the Word of God, it becomes the resource by which the Spirit of God directs and guides.”
October 10, 2019
While MacArthur covers much of the same information as Dwight Moody in his book on How to Study the Bible, both authors present different tips and methods making both books a valuable read. I particularly liked MacArthur's coverage of gaps in our modern-day knowledge and guidelines for interpretation.
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May 27, 2020A brilliant book for every beginner in Bible study.
Two great ideas I've got from this book are these: 1) mark what you don't understand while reading the Bible and try to find answers; 2) chose a portion of 5-7 chapters and read them repeatedly everyday for 30 days, then switch to the next.
Very simple and clear for understanding, yet containing a lot of truth for a spiritually blessed life.
I received it for free from GTY Community a couple of years ago, but only got to read it now, which I regret much.
Two great ideas I've got from this book are these: 1) mark what you don't understand while reading the Bible and try to find answers; 2) chose a portion of 5-7 chapters and read them repeatedly everyday for 30 days, then switch to the next.
Very simple and clear for understanding, yet containing a lot of truth for a spiritually blessed life.
I received it for free from GTY Community a couple of years ago, but only got to read it now, which I regret much.
December 21, 2021
John’s suggested methods just seem so contradictory to me. I don’t know how to explain in a short post.
I have his “MacArthur Study Bible” and enjoy reading it. It just seems impossible to consider and utilize all his recommendations. Very confusing to me. Maybe I am too literal.
I have his “MacArthur Study Bible” and enjoy reading it. It just seems impossible to consider and utilize all his recommendations. Very confusing to me. Maybe I am too literal.
January 22, 2017
I am ready to read my Bible.
March 15, 2023
An excellent, concise and helpful book on principles of Bible study. It was a great refresher for me, and nothing in it was "new" or surprising but simply great reminders and refreshers on how we approach the Bible with wonder and awe, and how we approach it rightly.
This would be an excellent little book for someone who has no idea where to start, who has never thought about correct interpretation of the Bible or Bible study at all.
This would be an excellent little book for someone who has no idea where to start, who has never thought about correct interpretation of the Bible or Bible study at all.
October 7, 2023
For a new christian - 5 stars,
for me - I expected more ideas HOW exactly to study the Bible, but the question HOW was only last 1/4 of the book. That being said, it is useful to think about WHY and motivate yourself, and there are helpful explanations of how to (not) interpret the Bible.
Excellent beginners guide on the topic.
for me - I expected more ideas HOW exactly to study the Bible, but the question HOW was only last 1/4 of the book. That being said, it is useful to think about WHY and motivate yourself, and there are helpful explanations of how to (not) interpret the Bible.
Excellent beginners guide on the topic.
January 25, 2020
A helpful introductory guide on where to begin with regards to studying the Word. I appreciate how Mr MacArthur starts by looking at why we should be studying Scripture, its effect in our hearts and lives, and how it is the source of our joy...when we seek to obey it. A small book that can spark a greater desire for the Word of the Living God.
September 10, 2020
Very practical explanation on how to study the Bible!
January 1, 2021
The biggest problem l had with this book was that l found the title to be deceptive. I picked it up expecting it up to cover one topic and having to read the first three 4 chapters out of the five that the book encompasses to not coincide with my expectations. Given the title, l expected this book to be about how to study the Bible. However, only the last chapter addresses how to do so. McArthur states that “we are going to examine “how” but that first we would examine “why”. This was a bit disappointing because it was not included in the title. The “Why” took up most of the book and was pretty basic. It was not unfamiliar to me.
The last part that covered “How” had some good ideas and he provides a specific method for study that may be a helpful tool for method of Bible study. Yet for one who is interested in learning more about how to study l believe there exists many more better resources than this book. I believe a more appropriate title for this book may have been “Why and How to Study the Bible.”
He made a good point when he stated that “There are some people who don’t interpret the Bible, they just apply it”. Aiming for proper interpretation, rather than making Scripture say what I think it should say or what sounds good to me, is critical in Bible study.
The last part that covered “How” had some good ideas and he provides a specific method for study that may be a helpful tool for method of Bible study. Yet for one who is interested in learning more about how to study l believe there exists many more better resources than this book. I believe a more appropriate title for this book may have been “Why and How to Study the Bible.”
He made a good point when he stated that “There are some people who don’t interpret the Bible, they just apply it”. Aiming for proper interpretation, rather than making Scripture say what I think it should say or what sounds good to me, is critical in Bible study.
October 31, 2021
Disappointing. I have found that John MacArthur’s books are very hit and miss, sometimes they’re on point and in other cases, very much not. Though this book is called ‘How to study the Bible’, the actual subject of how to do so is not broached until the final chapter. The other chapters broach who can study the Bible and how important it is to study the Bible. In the end, the actual chapter about how to study the Bible is not much longer than the other chapters (32, 34, 32, 36 respectively) and has very fundamental truth in it, but nothing exceedingly helpful. Maybe this book would be very good for a new Christian?, but it wasn’t particularly helpful for me.
October 9, 2017
This was a good little book on studying the Bible. Often books on personal bible study are lengthy and a bit overwhelming, but here MacArthur is clear and concise. This would make a great resource for a small group study or a 1:1 discipleship plan.
January 4, 2016
Very informative . A great read
Great instruction on getting more from studying your Bible. I will use what I read in this highly informative book
Great instruction on getting more from studying your Bible. I will use what I read in this highly informative book
December 30, 2017
This is a must
Anyone who wants to study the Bible will find this very helpful,in understanding how to study scripture and gain insights
Anyone who wants to study the Bible will find this very helpful,in understanding how to study scripture and gain insights
April 4, 2024
1. Reading the Bible
In attitude towards Bible reading, JMac emphasizes the importance of directly engaging with the Bible rather than relying solely on secondary sources or books about it.
He recommends a personalized approach to reading the Bible (with different strategies for the Old and New Testaments):
- i. reading through the Old Testament at least once a year (noting important truths and questions)
- ii. repetitious reading of individual New Testament books over a month or more to retain knowledge and understanding.
- iii. practical steps:
> a. reading short books like 1 John in one sitting daily for 30 days
> b. dividing longer books like John into shorter sections for daily reading over a longer period.
(ex: John - 21 chapters. Divide it into 3 sections of 7 chapters. At the end of 90 days, you'll finish John. For variety, alternate short and long books. )
2. Interpreting the Bible // TODO
3. What should be my response to the Bible ? - JM Study Bible
> Believe it (John 6:68-69)
> Obey it (1 John 2:5)
> Proclaim it (2 Tim. 4:2)
> Honor it (Job 23:12)
> Love it (Ps. 119:97)
> Guard it (1 Tim. 6:20)
> Study it (Ezra 7:10)
> Fight for it (Jude 3)
In attitude towards Bible reading, JMac emphasizes the importance of directly engaging with the Bible rather than relying solely on secondary sources or books about it.
He recommends a personalized approach to reading the Bible (with different strategies for the Old and New Testaments):
- i. reading through the Old Testament at least once a year (noting important truths and questions)
- ii. repetitious reading of individual New Testament books over a month or more to retain knowledge and understanding.
- iii. practical steps:
> a. reading short books like 1 John in one sitting daily for 30 days
> b. dividing longer books like John into shorter sections for daily reading over a longer period.
(ex: John - 21 chapters. Divide it into 3 sections of 7 chapters. At the end of 90 days, you'll finish John. For variety, alternate short and long books. )
2. Interpreting the Bible // TODO
3. What should be my response to the Bible ? - JM Study Bible
> Believe it (John 6:68-69)
> Obey it (1 John 2:5)
> Proclaim it (2 Tim. 4:2)
> Honor it (Job 23:12)
> Love it (Ps. 119:97)
> Guard it (1 Tim. 6:20)
> Study it (Ezra 7:10)
> Fight for it (Jude 3)
October 1, 2018
An excellent guide to the reasons for Bible study and helpful direction for the how. MacArthur lays out the case for Bible study from the Bible itself, looking at the relevant verses in turn. He takes great care to lay the foundation before building the house. This book has only four chapters, and it's not until the fourth that we get the 'how' of Bible study. The first three are essential reading and enforce the key motivations that are needed in Bible study. Ultimately the 'why' is fundamental to the 'how'. The fourth chapter gives us a brilliant insight into MacArthur's wealth of experience. He doesn't advertise the easy road to Bible study. The reading pattern he suggests is comprehensive but demanding, and will be a test of anyone's dedication to the task. His approach to interpretation is very simple and memorable. He has boiled down what is a complex issue into some very key points, that are memorable and easy to understand.
May 17, 2021
I love how clear and thorough the author was about studying the Bible. I was expecting to instantly start learning principles from chapter 1 but his approach went beyond my expectations. I love the breakdown in each chapter as to why we should study the Bible and then the presentation of several sub topics that I believe were quiet interesting. At the end of each chapter there were review questions pertaining to what had been established in the chapter covered and reflections before the start of a new chapter. I love the excessive use of scripture, makes the book a whole lot more relevant especially for believers who want to study the Bible. Looking forward to using what I have learnt and building a stronger relationship with God through His Word.
Would definitely recommend to those who wanna really dig deep into the Word of God.
Also looking forward to reading more of John MacArthur’s books.
Would definitely recommend to those who wanna really dig deep into the Word of God.
Also looking forward to reading more of John MacArthur’s books.
August 1, 2023
Book 75 How to study the Bible. I liked it at first. I could see the author had a passion for God and loved the scripture. However, towards the end I could see some inconsistences and was beginning to question a few things. One example, was that he said we should focus more on the New Testament but also read the Old testament in a year. Another thing was he said at one point read 1 john for 30 days, while reading the old testament, and then after 1 john go to a longer book of the bible. Then towards the end he said start with Genesis and a book of the new testament. That was not what he said a little bit ago. There are other stuff I wasn't sure I agreed with him on. I dont think this is the best book on how to study the bible. I feel like its more of a why we should study the bible. Very misleading.
July 9, 2019
This book not only gives you a great comprehensive insight into how to study the Bible, it also gives you reasons why you should study the Bible. It gives a great in-depth analysis of why the Bible is the Word of God and why we should trust it as such.
Pastor MacArthur breaks down into several different categories how we can not only study the Bible but how we can interpret it as well and also shows us how we can overcome historical, cultural, and language gaps that may obstruct us from properly interpreting God’s Word.
Pastor MacArthur breaks down into several different categories how we can not only study the Bible but how we can interpret it as well and also shows us how we can overcome historical, cultural, and language gaps that may obstruct us from properly interpreting God’s Word.
May 12, 2017
A very informative book about studying the Bible! MacArthur kept it entertaining, short, and sweet. I would have probably liked it better if the last chapter (How to Study the Bible) was a bit longer. For the first three-quarters of the book he is talking about the power of the word and who can study the Bible, which are both still very interesting. I guess he wants you to figure most of it out yourself.
September 26, 2019
This short/quick read is very insightful and well-written. It offers a clear explanation of the importance of Scripture intermingled with practical tools to help anyone who takes studying their Bible seriously. As a bonus, there are some golden nuggets sprinkled throughout of MacArthur correcting interpretive mistakes (or common misconceptions about specific passages) that I found very interesting and helpful.
August 28, 2020
Excellent book for new Christians or anyone who wants to get more out of studying the Bible. Seasoned Christians may be tempted to skip over the first 3 chapters that outline the attributes of the Bible, the authenticity of the Bible, the benefits of studying the Bible, and the requirements of who is able to understand the Bible. However, I encourage everyone to read it all - it's not very long, and would be helpful and encouraging even to those who have a solid foundation in God's word.
October 26, 2021
Study the Bible
I love the ways John MacArthur lays out for studying the Bible!! He breaks it down and makes it easy to understand. This book is a good one to keep handy to refer back to it when you need a quick reminder. He also makes sure you know the importance of knowing the Bible-and it’s not for yourself, that is a benefit but the true reason to know your Bible is to know God. 🤍
I love the ways John MacArthur lays out for studying the Bible!! He breaks it down and makes it easy to understand. This book is a good one to keep handy to refer back to it when you need a quick reminder. He also makes sure you know the importance of knowing the Bible-and it’s not for yourself, that is a benefit but the true reason to know your Bible is to know God. 🤍
January 9, 2022
A short book on the importance of the Bible and its value in our lives. Not a lot of help in the "how to's" which are reserved for the last chapter. This emphasizes the need for reading and re-reading and some study books are recommended. For lots of help in the actual "how to" in studying the Bible I recommend a little book by Oletta Wald called "Joy of Discovery" which is packed with ideas on observation, interpretation, and application, along with many practice passages.
February 2, 2022
I’ve found this book to be such a reminder on why believers should not only read but study the Word of God. MacArthur explains the basics of WHY the bible should be read (and studied) and then goes on to explain HOW we are to do so. MacArthur begs the question, “Why should we read the bible if we don’t understand it’s value?” This book is a short easy read with a simple outline. I recommend this book for all ages no matter if you’re a 30 year christian or you aren’t one at all.
October 22, 2020
This is a short little book and helpful! It’s very basic. Four chapters. I highly recommend it to any new believer or a believer just starting to read and study the Word. However, I didn’t feel like I received any instruction oh HOW to actually study the Bible. There are much better books on the topic out there.
April 25, 2023
Though this book is "how to study the bible" the how to part didn't come in till the very end. But it was good nonetheless less. I appreciated the review questions at the end of the chapters to really make sure the reader was fully comprehending the topic of the chapter. Definitely not MacArthur's best work, but a good little booklet
March 27, 2020
Livro muito e muito recomendável, não é simplesmente leia a Bíblia desse jeito, pois nem adiantaria escrever um livro, mas fácil colocar num folheto, mas o livro ele tras muito conhecimento que o ajuda como cristão e como aproveitar melhor esse estudo da Bíblia
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews