John Wesley's Bible Study Tips

Although he was widely read on a great number of topics, John Wesley called himself a homo unius libri, a “man of one book”.  He even went so far as to remark “I am a Bible bigot.  I follow it in all things, both great and small.”  In his preface to the Old Testament, John Wesley lays down seven suggestions for daily, personal Bible study.  These tips are as appropriate today as in 1765 when they were written:

1) Set aside some time in the morning and evening to read God’s Word.

2) If you have time, read a chapter of the Old Testament and and a chapter of the New Testament.  Read a little less if that works better for you.

3) Read with the single aim of knowing the will of God and have a firm resolution to do God’s will.

4) Read in faith, and to see the connection and harmony of these grand theological themes:  Original Sin, Justification by Faith, the New Birth, Inward Holiness, and Outward Holiness. 

5) Pray earnestly and seriously before and after you read as the scriptures can only be understood through the same Holy Spirit that inspired them.

6) Pause and examine yourself while you read and take note of those areas where God has helped you make progress and those areas where you need more grace.

7) Whatever God shows you to do, act on it quickly.  Give God a quick “yes” and you will discover how powerful God’s Word really is.

If you are not in the habit of daily Bible reading, I would invite you to put these tips into practice for a week and see the difference that it makes in your life.

(from (www.peopleneedjesus.com)