How Do You Study God’s Word? | Brad Jones | Sermon Notes — Hello Pastor

Sermon Notes

How Do You Study God’s Word?

Passion City Church • Mar 18, 2025 • 42 min

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Take this message with you through a journey of Scripture, reflection, and prayer.

Summary

In this practical message, Pastor Brad Jones unpacks the inductive Bible study method, guiding believers on how to engage deeply with God's Word. Using the framework of Prayer, Reading, Observation, Interpretation, and Application, he demonstrates how scripture transforms from printed words on a page into living spiritual life. Believers are encouraged to invest the time and discipline required to let Christ's message dwell richly within their hearts and daily lives.

Themes

Inductive Bible StudyScripture EngagementSpiritual GrowthDiscipleshipScripture Memorization

Pastor's Points

1.

Step 1: Pray

2.

Step 2: Read

3.

Step 3: Observe

4.

Step 4: Interpret

5.

Step 5: Apply

Key Points

1.
Step 1: Pray — Ask the Holy Spirit for supernatural guidance and illumination before opening scripture, recognizing that spiritual words require divine revelation.
2.
Step 2: Read — Establish a clear reading plan to consistently engage God's word rather than reading randomly or passively.
3.
Step 3: Observe — Take time to write down text, examine key verbs, conjunctions, and historical context, asking 'What do I see?'
4.
Step 4: Interpret — Seek objective divine truth by asking 'What does this mean?', letting scripture interpret scripture without forcing personal viewpoints.
5.
Step 5: Apply — Ask 'How does it work in my daily life?', taking concrete action steps, making life changes, and obeying what God reveals.
6.
Believers follow Jesus because He alone possesses the words of eternal life, making His word irreplaceable regardless of cultural pressure or difficult teachings.
7.
Scripture is designed for every Christian to internalize and share, calling all believers—not just church leaders—to teach and encourage one another.
8.

Sermon Moments

“Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”

“A Bible that is falling apart usually belongs to someone who isn't.”

“God wants you to be a teacher of this word, letting it dwell in you until it naturally overflows to others.”

“Let the word of Christ have the run of the house, giving Him permission to inhabit every room of your life.”

“Memorizing scripture anchors our minds, allowing us to declare 'In you, Lord my God, I put my trust' during times of stress.”

“Buy truth and do not sell it—invest whatever time and discipline is necessary to hold fast to God's eternal word.”

This Week

Begin every Bible reading session with prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to open your eyes and guide your understanding (Psalm 119:18).

Establish a daily scripture reading plan on a Bible app or in print to maintain consistency and intentionality.

Slow down during study by writing out single verses in a journal to observe key verbs, grammar, and words.

Use resources like BibleHub or Interlinear word tools to explore key biblical terms in their original languages.

Engage in intentional conversations about scripture with friends, family, or small group members throughout the week.

Memorize specific verses, such as Psalm 25:1–2, to combat anxious thoughts and anchor your heart during stressful moments.

Invest your time, early mornings, or daily schedule to prioritize acquiring God's truth, refusing to compromise or abandon it.

Remember This

God's word is worthwhile and full of spiritual life, and every believer can study and internalize it through prayer, observation, interpretation, and daily application.

A Challenge for You

Buy truth and do not sell it—whatever it costs in time, effort, or sacrifice, let God's word dwell richly within you and never let it go.

These are personal sermon notes shared to help you remember the message — not a replacement for Scripture, your church, or your pastors.