Do you know how to easily use the S.O.A.P. Bible study method?
The S.O.A.P. Bible study method is a simple yet effective way to study and apply the scriptures to your life.
It is a glorious way to study your Bible during your devotional time because it helps you to connect with God's word in a meaningful and personal way, especially if you only have 20 minutes!
How to easily use the S.O.A.P Bible study method
Here are the steps to easily use this Bible study method:
S - Scripture: Choose a passage or verse from the Bible to study. Read the passage carefully and ask yourself what it is saying.
O - Observation: Write down any observations or insights you have about the passage. This can include details about the context, the characters, the message, or any other relevant information.
A - Application: Think about how you can apply the passage to your life. Ask yourself what it teaches you about God, about yourself, and about how to live.
P - Prayer: End your study time with a prayer. Ask God to help you apply the passage to your life and to give you the strength to live out what you have learned.
SOAP Bible Study Journal
To simplify the process, you can use a S.O.A.P. journal or notebook to write down your observations and applications, and the prayers that will bubble up within you as you prayerfully study your Bible.
I have designed some S.O.A.P. Bible study templates for you to use during your personal devotional Bible study. They are slightly different from the traditional SOAP journals widely available. Read on to find out the unique way I lead you to pray through the scriptures!
S.O.A.P Bible Study Questions
Have you got a topical Bible reading plan? We have many here at Scripturalgrace. They are perfect for deep diving into Bible study on a particular subject and when you use our SOAP Bible study template ( available in printed format or in a printable PDF format), you will connect with God's word in a meaningful and personal way in under 20 minutes. So it's perfect if you only have a short time for your personal daily devotional Bible study.
Here are 20 questions that you can use during your devotional Bible study time while using the S.O.A.P. Bible study method.
Observation
1. What do you see?
2. What stands out to you?
3. Is there anything new that stands out to you in this passage that you hadn't noticed before?
4. Who is this scripture passage written by?
5. Who is it written to?
6. What comes before and after the portion of scripture that you are reading? (this helps to put your chosen scripture passage into context)
7. Is there anything unusual or interesting in this passage? ( Look up a dictionary the definition of words that stand out to you)
8. What lesson is being taught through this passage of scripture?
9. What do your chosen scriptures reveal about the character of God?
10. Does this passage reveal to you anything about the relationship between God and people?
Application
When using the S.O.A.P. Bible study method, the "Application" step is an important part of the process that invites readers to consider how the passage applies to their own life. Here are some application questions that you could ask yourself:
1. What does the scripture or passage teach you about God's character, and how can you apply that to your life?
2. What actions or attitudes does this passage challenge me to change in my life?
3. What promises or truths from this passage can I hold onto during times of struggle or uncertainty?
4. How can I apply the principles or teachings of this passage to my relationships with others?
5. What specific steps can I take to live out the truths of this passage in my daily life?
6. How can I share the insights or lessons learned from this passage with others, and help them grow in their faith?
7. What does God want you to do? During your prayer time, ask Him to reveal to you anything that He wants you to take on or give up doing.
Overall, the key is to approach the application step with a humble and teachable attitude, open to the Holy Spirit's guidance as you seek to apply the truths of the passage to your own life.
Soap Bible Study Method pdf
Just click on the arrow below to download the S.O.A.P. Bible Study PDF, so that you can refer to it while you do your own personal Bible study. Print it out or save it to your digital device.
Prayer and the unique way I use the soap method of prayer!
The S.O.A.P. templates available here at Scripturalgrace.com are in a slightly different format from the many traditional versions widely available. I have found using the A.C.T.S acronym of prayer so valuable to use during my prayer time, that I have included it in our SOAP Bible study template. You will find yourself praying through the scriptures in a way that you may not have expected to.
The A.C.T.S prayer model is a simple acronym made up of four parts that when prayed cover all the aspects of prayer that should be included in your daily prayer routine.
A represents the word adoration,
C represents confession,
T represents thanksgiving, and
S represents the word supplication.
Here are some questions that you could consider during your prayer portion of the S.O.A.P. Bible study method.
1. How does your chosen scripture or passage compel you to worship God? Write your prayer in the adoration section of the prayer template.
2. What do you need to confess to God?
3. How can you express your thanks to God considering the passage of scripture that you have just read?
4. Does this portion of scripture bring to your mind anything that you need to pray for? This is your time of supplication where you pray your requests to God.
S.O.A.P. Bible Study Template
SOAP Bible Study Template
Our unique S.O.A.P. Bible study templates are available already printed or as a printable PDF. They come in a beautiful color version (because I love pretty stationary!) and also in simple uncluttered black and white.
✅You will receive a PDF containing 2 versions of the SOAP Bible study page. Please note that they are sized 11 x 8.5 in landscape format in black and white and one in color.
✅You will also receive a PDF with tips and suitable questions to guide you through your study.
S.O.A.P. Bible Study Template PDF in color
S.O.A.P. Bible Study Template PDF in black and white
Why you should use the S.O.A.P. Bible study template
Simplicity: S.O.A.P. offers a straightforward and systematic approach. Its four-step process is easy for anyone, regardless of their level of biblical knowledge, to understand and follow. Use the observation questions and application questions in our FREE S.O.A.P. Bible Study Method PDF as a reference guide as you do your own personal Bible study.
Personal Reflection: This Bible study method encourages personal reflection on the Scripture. Through observation and application, you're invited to think deeply about what the passage means personally to you.
Application in Daily Life: The "Application" step challenges individuals to think about how they can apply the lessons from the Scripture in their everyday lives. This makes the Bible more relevant and actionable.
Enhances Prayer Life: By concluding with prayer, you get the opportunity to speak with God about your insights, ask for guidance on the application, and strengthen your relationship with Him. I add an extra step to the SOAP method of study during my prayer time. I use the A.C.T.S method of prayer to pray through the scripture. It really brings the scripture alive as you pray through it (the FREE S.O.A.P. Bible study method pdf includes an example of how I do this)
Consistency: The structured approach can make it easier to maintain a regular Bible study habit, which can be beneficial for spiritual growth.
Deepens Understanding: By taking time to observe and reflect on the Scripture, you're more likely to gain a deeper understanding of the text rather than just skimming through it.
Versatility: S.O.A.P. can be used individually or in group settings. Whether in personal devotions, small groups, or even larger Bible study groups, this method is adaptable.
Helps with Journaling: For those who enjoy journaling, the S.O.A.P. method offers a clear structure to record thoughts, reflections, and spiritual insights, making it easier to review and reflect upon later.
Encourages Scripture Memorization: By focusing on specific Scriptures during the study, it becomes easier to commit them to memory, which can be spiritually enriching.
Builds a Stronger Spiritual Foundation: By regularly engaging with the Bible using the S.O.A.P. method, you can develop a deeper connection to God's Word, strengthening your spiritual foundation and fostering spiritual growth.
Overall, the S.O.A.P. Bible study method is a great way to engage in devotional Bible study because it helps you to connect with God's word in a meaningful and personal way, fosters gratitude and worship, and creates a routine of regular Bible study.
I hope these Bible study templates will enhance your devotional time with your Savior.
You can connect with me via email karen@scripturalgrace.com or on our FACEBOOK page.
It's all about His grace
xx Karen.