Are you looking for ways you study the bible more effectively and consistently, the SOAP bible study method is one of the effective ways to do that.
There are so many ways and methods you can adopt when it comes to word study, however, the SOAP method is one of the easiest methods.
What is the SOAP Bible study method and how can it help you in your walk with God? The S.O.A.P. Bible Study Method is a great, simple way to record what you are reading and take the next step by making it personal.
The SOAP Method is a great way to deepen your faith and grow closer to God through studying Scripture.
Learning how to apply God’s Word to our everyday lives are so very important and the S.O.A.P. method can help you.
If you are a new beginner to studying the Bible or you have been studying the bible for a while, are just looking for new ways to go deeper in your Bible study time, take a look at this powerful Bible study method to study God’s Word!
There are so many scriptures you can start with, one of my favorite passages of scripture to pray in the morning is Psalm 91:1, which says, “Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty”.
The SOAP Bible Study Method is a great way to start allowing God’s Word to saturate your heart. Knowing that God is shelters and protects us when we are afraid, sick, or in deep trouble. with the word.
As you begin to study the Bible, you will start to notice a change in yourself. With regular study, you may find that you are actively seeking His will and feel more at peace.
Be sure to grab your SOAP Bible Study Free Printable at the bottom of this post!
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What is a Soap Method of Bible Study
The SOAP method Bible study is a unique and organized way to study the Bible. This method encourages us to dig deeper into Scripture and see more than if we were to simply read.
This bible study method is great for use during daily devotion, private time with large groups. The simple process guides you through reading a passage of scripture, observing the verses, asking questions, and prayer.
The word “SOAP” is an acronym which stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer. Using these four key terms we will teach you what each of them mean and how to apply them in your time in God’s Word.
This is a method I have used, but your Creator is delighted you are choosing time in His presence, whatever way you find is most beneficial to you!
What does SOAP Mean? SOAP stands for:
- S stands for Scripture
- O stands for Observation
- A stand for Application
- P stands for Prayer
The SOAP method of studying the Bible is an excellent way to study each verse and get an understanding of the scripture.
Bible Gateway is one such resource. I like to type my topic into the search field to see a list of Scriptures centered around that topic.
Scripture
Choose any scripture or scriptures. Read the verse or verses in your bible. Write and highlight important words, phrases, or scriptures that stand out or resonate with you.
Observation
This element of the SOAP bible study method is all about what is presented in front of you. The first goal is to look at the text objectively. You want to pull out facts.
You want to see what God is saying or what the author is trying to convey. For observation, you may also want to note any words that speak to you. Or maybe there was something that was not said.
Some people may choose to go a deep further in their observation with commentary and other biblical resources. However, when I am using SOAP, I typically just stick with the Bible for the O section and ask the Holy Spirit to guide me in it.
Application
Reflect on the scriptures, on how you can apply these scriptures to your life.
- How does this verse apply to your life?
- How can you implement what you have read?
- What changes do you need to make? (Attitudes or Character)
- What lessons can you take from reading?
- Is this an area where I can grow?
- Does this text confirm current actions that I am taking or having?
- What is one thing that I can do today as it applies to this text?
Now, it is time to make it personal. You may even want to re-read the scripture, look at your observations, then ask “How does the scripture apply to me?” You might also write down your first initial thoughts and feelings to this biblical text? Other questions you might ask include:
Prayer
Prayer is simply communication with God. I encourage you not to hold back on this step. This is the time to write down anything that you need God to help you with, particularly as it pertains to your life and the text.
(However, do not hesitate to write down anything else that is on your mind on that day.) You may not be used to writing out your prayers but consider it as a letter to God.
Let Him know how you felt or what you took away from the other three sections of the SOAP bible study method.
There have been times that I even like to go back and look at past SOAPs. I often see how God answered my prayers or things that I still need to work on.
I pray you find this Soap method helpful, and I pray the SOAP Bible study examples have been helpful. As you dive deeper on God’s Word, I can see you going to the next level in Christ Jesus. I wish you the best as you dive deeper into God’s Word!
SOAP Bible Study Resources
While the SOAP Bible study method is simple, this printable worksheet is a great starting point for getting started.
Be sure to get these SOAP Bible study printables – click the image below:
Example of SOAP Bible Study Method
Below is a SOAP Bible study example using Psalm 46:10.
“Be still and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.” (Psalm 46:10)
This passage reads: “Be still and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.”
Scripture – “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint (Isaiah 40:31).”
Observation – Sometimes when we go through seasons where we feel a lack of energy, we can often want to give up in our faith in the areas where we are trusting God for answers to prayer.
However, God promises to renew our youth and vitality in every situation. In times of trouble, God want us to be still. Be quiet before Him and allow Him to do the work.
Application – At that time, all will stand quietly before the all- powerful Lord. How proper, then, for us to be still now, reverently honoring him and his power and majesty.
I know when God is during a work in my life, in order for Him to work, I have to take position, and be still. I can apply this in every area of my life.
Prayer – Father, thank you for renewing my youth as an eagle. Because I wait on You in every area of my life. I wait on you and be of good courage. My life is in your hands. In Jesus Name. Amen.
These steps are so simple, a perfect tool for studying the Word of God?
This method is great for a large group bible study as well as small groups.
This process can take as long or as short a period of time as you would like, there is no right or wrong!
Whatever option you choose, the most important thing is that you are spending time daily in His Word!
Continue to study with the Soap Bible Study Method, through prayer, and time in the Word, it will help you develop a more profound and meaningful relationship in your faith walk.
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Conclusion
Applying the scriptures to our lives is as simple as knowing the Word and doing what it says. The S.O.A.P. method helps us to understand the love of God, the character of God, and that he loves us and has given us all instructions to live an abundant life through Christ Jesus through his Word.
So, there you have it. The SOAP method for Bible study is simple, straightforward, and quite effective.
It is versatile in that it works for going into depth with a Bible study, but it is also considerate of time, and it is a great way to manage time throughout your group’s study.
The SOAP method is not just for groups, it is also easy to adapt to personal preferences and needs. If you are planning to study alone, SOAP works great!
Just remember the core principals of how-to SOAP:
Scripture| Observe| Apply | Pray.
Develop a routine that suits you and reserve time for each step. Do not forget to share what you have learned with your family and friends. What good is learning scripture without sharing how you have grown.
Free Soap Bible Study Printables
Feel free to download the following Soap Bible study printables that you can print as you study God’s Word. Just click HERE to download!
