I would like to suggest a pattern of Bible study for reading the Pauline letters that has proved helpful to me. If consists of four different phases. Begin by selecting any section of Scripture (a chapter might be a good place to start) and then number the paragraphs (the paragraph being the basic unit of meaning in language).
Phase 1. Underline any words and phrases that seem especially significant to you.
Phase 2. Read the first paragraph and then ask, "What question or issue must have been asked for Paul to have written this paragraph?" Repeat this step with each paragraph.
Phrase 3. Reread each paragraph carefully and ask, "What is God saying to me today through this paragraph?"
Phase 4. Summarize what Paul is teaching in each paragraph under these headings:
- God
- Christ
- The Holy Spirit
- The Church
- The Christian Life
- Missions and Evangelism
I believe your experience in Bible study will be greatly enhanced by using this (or a similar) method.
Thanks for stopping by!