Topical Bible

Previously you encountered the Theme (Thematic) Method of Bible study in which you studied a narrow theme of the Bible in simple detail asking prepared questions of verses from a chosen list. With the Topical Study, you will study a topic of the Bible, which may contain several themes, and you will not be asking prepared questions, instead. you will be recording all the insights you find from your study. The topical method will usually take longer than the theme (thematic) so you will want to assure yourself that sufficient time is available to at least make a significant start on the study.

6.1 - Tools

6.1.1 - Bible

6.1.2 - Exhaustive Concordance and / or cross-references

6.1.3 - Topical Bible

Online Bible Resource Study Tools

6.2 - Hints (taken from Topical Bible Study Methods by Rev. R. A. Torrey).

6.2.1 - Be systematic by listing all the concepts related to your topic. Study each idea comprehensively in a systematic and logical order.

6.2.2 - Be thorough by studying every verse that is related to the topic.

6.2.3 - Be exact and try to get the exact meaning for each verse that you are studying. Remember not to remove the verses from their context but use the context to help you in your study.

6.3 - Steps

Step 1 - Compile a list of words related to the topic you will study

Step 2 - Collect all references relating to each word.

Step 3 - Consider each reference individually.

Step 4 - Compare and group the references.

Step 5 - Condense the results of your study into a brief outline.

Step 6 - Conclude your study.

Chart for the Devotional Method of Bible study