Inductive Bible Study Application

Understandably, it is customary for believers to desire application first and foremost.  While applying God’s Word is the ultimate goal, it must not be the first step each time we read the Bible.  Good application is based on good interpretation and good interpretation is based on good observation.  If we omit observation and interpretation it is quite likely we will misapply God’s Word.  God considers it a serious offense to misapply His Word as demonstrated by His rebuke of Job’s friends for so doing (Job 42:7-9).  Jesus likewise demonstrated this attitude when the Pharisees misapplied the Sabbath laws (Matthew 12:1-8).  Learning to properly apply God’s Word is crucial.  Only then can we consistently apply the inductive process in honoring and respecting the Bible.