How to Study the Bible Intentionally [Updated Edition]: Methods and Conditions for Effective Bible Study

by Reuben A. Torrey

The Bible is read much, but is studied very little in comparison.

With every verse of Scripture, we should not ask what it can be made to teach, but what it was intended to teach – and we should not rest satisfied until we have settled that.

No one method of study will do if one desires to be a well-rounded and well-balanced Bible student.

We never know one truth correctly until we know it in its proper relations to other truths.

It would be good to have three methods of study in progress at the same time: first, the study of some book; second, the study of topics (perhaps topics suggested by the book studies); and third, the study of the Bible in order.

Study of the Word stimulates love for the Word.

The reason why many get so little out of their Bible reading is simply because they are not willing to think.

One verse of Scripture chewed and digested and absorbed will give more strength than whole chapters simply skimmed.

It is a rare privilege to study any book under the immediate guidance and instruction of its author, and this is the privilege of us all in studying the Bible.

There is no management of resources that pays as well as does management of time, and there is no way of making use of time as wisely as putting the moments that are going to waste into the study of or meditation upon the Word of God.