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Structuring:
A Bible Study Tool
BIBLE STUDY SKILLS FOR PREACHING AND TEACHING
ROBERT HASKINS SCHOOL OF LEADERSHIP
November 3, 2007
PREMISE: The basic unit of thought in Scripture is the sentence.
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How can we best understand the sentences in the text so as to truly understand the text?
One way is through a Bible study tool known as structuring.
Structuring is a simplified method of diagramming the text.
Rules for Structuring
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(1)
Write the entire text word for word in the exact order of the text.
§ Do not leave out any words
§ Do not add any words
§ Do not rearrange the words
(2)
Do not emphasize punctuation and chapter divisions.
(3)
Place the complete thoughts (independent clauses) at the left margin.
Difference between an independent and a dependent clause? If it makes
sense by itself, then it is an independent clause.
Another way to tell is to use the journalistic questions.
Independent Clauses
Dependent Clauses
What or Who
Where, When, How, Why
(4)
Indent the supporting thoughts (dependent clauses and phrases), such as &
§ Statements beginning with ˝For, ˛ except ˝For this reason & ˛
§ Verb clauses with ˝ing ˛ endings (participles)
§ Answers to ˝Where, ˛ ˝When, ˛ ˝How, ˛ and ˝Why ˛
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Understanding and Applying the Bible
, Robertson McQuilkin, 135
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I am indebted to Precept Ministries International for this information on structuring. © 2000
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Thoughts about Structuring
(1)
It identifies order, reason, result, contrast, comparison, and purpose
(2)
It forces you to &
§ Think
§ Keep from assuming before understanding
§ Slow down long enough to hear what God is saying
(3)
It sometimes results in memorization as a by-product
(4)
It has two essential characteristics:
§ Objectivity
§ Applicability
(5)
It IS preparation
There is no rigid way to structure, but it is possible to be wrong. There is a right way, but
there are many possibilities for what would still be considered correct. In light of this,
strive to be consistent in your approach.