4 C's Bible Study Method
Have you ever heard a Bible teaching that seemed to unlock scripture and make new connections? Your eyes were suddenly opened to new revelations and new applications! Well that process isn't just for the teachers, it is available to all who read the Bible and I can show you how to do it. I developed the 4C's method of study to help the reader find deeper meaning and connection in the text. This method of study will guide you in to your own personal relationship with the Word and a confidence and eagerness when approaching your Bible.
COMPREHEND
Read the text.
After reading, consider if you understood what you read.
Do you know who is speaking throughout the passage?
Did you notice names, places, times, or actions?
Can you determine if it is God speaking, someone speaking God's words, or someone speaking on their own?
Remember, sometimes we won't understand everything. Notice what is confusing.
CONNECT
Next, consider what other passages in scripture reference the same thing. For example, did the passage talk about water?
What other scriptures talk about water?
Did Jesus have anything to say about water?
Go to the scriptures you are reminded of and read them. Notice if the scriptures inform each other or if the additional scripture informs the meaning of the first scripture you read.
Sometimes we aren't reminded of anything and yet a scripture is jumping out at us. Read the scriptures that are cross-referenced and see where they lead your study.
CONTEMPLATE
Thirdly, think about all you have read. Can you see the attributes of God, like love, mercy, faithfulness, etc.? How would you feel if you were in that situation?
How does it appear the people in the passage feel?
Do you see emotion by anyone, including God?
Do you see something that speaks to spiritual warfare, or being a part of the Kingdom of God, or about our mission on earth?
This is both the best part and the hardest part. Take time. Don't rush . Just sit and think and ponder and the Spirit will reveal what you are to learn. This is a great place to journal your thoughts.
COMMUNICATE
Lastly, after reading, connecting, and contemplating, pray.
This is where you reflect on all you have learned and consider how you are to respond to God, personally. Praise God for what you learned.
Ask for what you need.
Confess what is wrong.
Seek for what is right.
Sometimes our prayers are intertwined throughout the whole reading process. These can be prayers for understanding or revelation as you are reading and then you would return after your reading with your response.