The SOAP Method of Bible Study

Scripture

• Read through the passage for next week a couple of times.

• Choose one verse from the assigned passage that stands out to you.

• Write out the verse in a journal or something you can use for further study.

Observation

• Look at the verse with unbiased eyes to see what God is saying.

• Write out simple observations the verse communicates.

• Look for things like keywords, commands, promises, cause/effect, comparisons/contrasts, questions/answers, and purpose statements.

• Write out answers to the six big questions: Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How.

• You want to discover the message the author intended for the original audience. 

Application

• Reflect on how you can apply this verse to your life.

• Make it personal and specific to you.

• How can you implement what you’ve read? 

• What habits, attitudes, or changes do you need to make?

• What lessons can you take away from the verse? 

Prayer

• Write a brief prayer about the verse you studied.

• Thank God and ask him for wisdom to apply these truths to your life.

• You could also confess any sin and ask for strength to live according to the truths of this verse.