Just having the Bible is not enough if you were to fully understand what is written in it. You need additional tools that would help you study and grasp the teachings. Besides, you must also learn how to use these resources well in the form of bible studies. The richness of the scripture will become more apparent as you begin using these tools in an effective manner.
These tools are not only beneficial in understanding the Bible but they also help you teach it to others. Let’s say you’re a parent who wants to teach the Bible to your children. In this case, these tools will help you in providing explanations and clearing their doubts. So, let’s see what are those essential tools you need for Bible studies:
1. Internet
This is one tool that’s extremely necessary in the world that we live in today. You’ll have many biblical websites that help you in studying the Bible. Through such websites, you’ll have access to thousands of trustworthy resources. As technology has evolved to a great extent in recent times, you can access the internet through your smartphone.
So, you need not worry even if you’re traveling to a certain geographical location. Even while you travel, you can access these sites using your mobile data or Wi-Fi.
2. Bible dictionary
You can use Bible dictionary to research the cultural context and historical background. It’s usually in the form of an encyclopedia. There are short articles in it that are arranged in an alphabetical order. It can be used as a reliable resource to learn about people and places.
A Bible dictionary will also tell you the meaning of a word or phrase that was used in those times. Sometimes, you may find it difficult to find a particular word. In such situations, you can identify the category which the word has an association with.
3. Bible background commentary
In order to understand the cultural background of the Bible verses, you’ll need a Bible background commentary. Every book of the Bible will have a chapter listed in the order of the book. The chapter would begin with a section that covers the date, authorship, purpose, setting, and genre.
As you read further, it will take you through the book section after section. At times, you may need to be careful while distinguishing between interpretation and background information.
4. Concordance
Concordances seem like telephone books. You’ll find each biblical word in bold and then there are instances that use the word. If you’re not able to find the scriptural reference for a word, look up in the English Bible version. A concordance is an excellent tool for finding cross-references.
You can determine where else the author has used a certain word. It’s also useful for looking up the meaning of original Greek or Hebrew.
5. Maps
In many of the narratives of the Bible, you miss the significance of the story because you don’t recognize the place. This is why you need maps. They’re truly priceless as they help you in locating the places and understanding distances. You can also use maps to perceive the relation between them. Some books of Bible maps are compact and include background material as well.