The S.O.A.P. Method of Bible Study goes like this:

S.O.A.P. stands for Scripture, Observation, Application and Prayer. It is designed to be an easy way to read a portion of scripture, get something meaningful out of it and then be able to discuss it from your perspective. Let me break it down and I think you will find that it a very easy and useful method of Bible study.

1st – S. Scripture
>> Read a chapter of the bible and then pick a verse from the passage that stands out to you personally.

2nd – O. Observation
>> Reread the verse a couple of more times and then Reword the scripture by writing it out in your own words.

3rd – A. Application
>> Next write you would actually apply this verse to your life? Both in general and in specific areas that God to show up. Obviously some of this might be stuff that you would share with a group, and some of may only be share with one or two people that are close enough to and you feel comfortable with.

4th – P. Prayer
>> Lastly, write down your prayer to God on how you plan to apply this scripture to your life. Remember the primary way to get the most out of God’s word is to be in regular communication with God about how to apply it and then asking for the strength to actually do it. You will find that writing out your prayer is actually a power tool and an eye opening process.

HERE IS AN EXAMPLE

Mark Chapter 4

S. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?”

O. Sometimes when everything around us seems to be falling apart, Jesus has His hand on the situation. He said My peace I give, not as the world gives. Know that He knows our situations and He is not afraid or surprised by the circumstance. Know that one word from the savior changes everything and that He has given us the power to harness His name. Use the authority of the name of Jesus and realize that He will never let you drown.

A. Whenever something happens that could potentially drown you, don’t wallow in the situation, talk about the situation with , be afraid about the situation AND THEN Go to Jesus last … go to him first

P. Father, forgive me for the times that I have gone to you last and not used the authority that you have given me through your name. I invite the conviction of the Holy Spirit to keep me in check and convict me when my heart isn’t right and I stop coming to you with my obstacles.