I-1 Prompt: Instructions for Bible Scripture Exegesis

Diving Deep: Instructions for Bible Scripture Exegesis

Exegesis is like detective work for the Bible! It's the process of carefully analyzing a passage to uncover its original meaning and how it would have been understood by the first readers. Here's a roadmap to guide you:

Preparation:

1. Choose your passage: John 3:16.

Investigate the Text:

1. Genre: Identify the literary style of the passage. Is it a historical account, a letter, a poem, or something else? Different genres have different conventions for conveying meaning.
2. Context is King: Consider the surrounding verses and chapters. How does the passage fit into the bigger picture of the book?
3. Word Study: Look up unfamiliar words in the original language (Hebrew or Greek) if you can. This can reveal nuances missed in translation.
4. Grammar Matters: Pay attention to sentence structure and how words connect. This can influence the meaning.

Consider the World Outside the Text:

1. Historical Context: When and where was the passage written? What was the audience's social, cultural, and political situation like?
2. Authorial Intent: What was the author trying to communicate to the original audience?

Bridging the Gap:

1. Cross-referencing: See how other parts of the Bible address similar themes or ideas. This can shed light on the passage's meaning.
2. The Big Picture: How does the passage contribute to the overall message of the Bible?

Your Interpretation:

1. Form a Thesis: Based on your analysis, formulate a clear statement about the passage's meaning and significance.
2. Application: How can this passage be applied to your life and the world today? Remember, the historical context may be different, but the core message might still be relevant.

Explain each point