Study

The Bible is not a book; it’s a library. And it was written thousands of years ago, in three different languages, by dozens of different authors and in multiple genres of literature. As you would expect, it can be very hard to understand at times, and we can easily get lost or turned around as we work through it. 

But by reading the teachings of Jesus, it becomes clear that if we misunderstand Scripture it can do great damage to our souls and society. Jesus himself spent a lot of time correcting common misreadings of Scripture. But the reverse is also true: If we understand what the library of Scripture is saying to us, it can enlarge and enrich our lives in profound ways. But for that, we need study.

Below you will find steps to help you engage with this practice over the next four weeks, as well as resources for further exploration.

Ways to engage with the Scripture Practice

• First and foremost, this practice (and all practices) are meant to be done in community. If you haven't yet, find a small group of people that are commited to walking through this practice together. 

• Download the Scripture Practice Guide. If you can, it is advised to print it out to reduce the distraction of our devices. 

• Gather with your group once a week to watch the Practicing the Way video found below. This will include questions for discussion, as well as a short teaching on that week's practice.

• Step into each practice as much as you are able and feel comfortable to. This invitation is for everyone at all stages of life and faith. 

• Reflect on your experience of the practice using the reflection questions at the bottom of the guide and be prepared to share them the next time you gather with your group.

Grounded Reading Journal 2026

Download Journey's 2026 reading journal here

Recommended Reading

Eat This Book by Eugene Peterson (Chapters 5-6)

BibleProject Videos

How to Read the Bible

Rule of Life Podcast

Scripture Practice Week 3

Sabbath Practice Guide

Download the practice guide here

Week 3 Practice - Study a passage of Scripture

• First, choose a passage or theme of Scripture, ideally one that you find your heart drawn to but don’t yet understand, or one that you feel an aversion to, either because you don’t understand it or you’re scared you do.

• Study it in a thoughtful, loving, and prayerful way. Here are a few ways you can study your chosen passage:

  • Listen to teaching(s) on the passage.

  • Watch an overview of the passage on BibleProject.com

  • Utilize a study bible. Follow the notes and footnotes connected to that passage.

Week 3 Reflection Questions

Before your next time together with the group for Week 4, take five minutes to journal out your answers to the following three questions about the practice:

• How do I feel God challenging me to grow through this practice?

• How can I cultivate more joy in my times of study?

• In what ways did I experience God's presence as I studied?