SOAP METHOD

The SOAP Bible study method stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. It was developed by Pastor Wayne Cordeiro to be a simple Bible study method for those trying to learn more about scripture in a real way. He wanted the SOAP method for Bible study to be a practical way that people can spend time in God’s Word and apply what they learn to their lives.The S.O.A.P Bible study method combines Bible study, analysis, application, and praying. The SOAP Bible study method can be combined with Bible journaling to make the most out of your time with God. Bible journaling, similar to diary writing, is a great way to dive into the Bible and learn how the Scriptures can be applied to your life.As mentioned, SOAP is a simple acronym that stands for:S – Scripture
O – Observation
A – Application
P – PrayerHow to Use the SOAP Bible Study MethodAs mentioned, SOAP stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. So, how do you use this Bible study method to build and grow your faith?Scripture
First, you need to read the Scripture out loud or write it out in a journal.Observation
Next, you’ll want to observe and determine the facts of the Bible verse by asking those great six questions:Who wrote this, or who is this Bible verse mentioning in the passage?
What is the verse really saying to you?
Where was this Bible verse written?
Why was this included in the Bible?
How can you apply this verse to your life?
When was this passage written, and what was life like them?
Please note that a study Bible might have some of the answers to these questions and may even have a place written where you can do SOAP Bible journaling or take notes in the margins. Check out the next section for my best recommendations for study Bibles.Application
After that, you’ll want to determine how to apply the Bible verse to your life. Ask a few questions when you are studying the Bible verse. Try some of these questions to help guide you in the right direction as you read the Bible.How is God speaking to you?
Why do you think God led you to those Bible verses?
How can you apply what you’ve read to your life?
What can you relate to the most in this passage?
How do you think the author felt when he was writing this verse?
How could you reword this Bible verse to make more sense or to be more applicable to your life?Prayer
Finally, you’ll want to pray about what you’ve read and studied. Ask God to help you best understand and apply what you’ve read to your life in the way He wants, not the way you want.