Week Two - Friday - Your Personal Context

This week we have seen that we have to consider various contexts if we are to read, understand, and apply the Bible effectively: Historical Context, Cultural Context, Literary Context and Theological Context.  But each of us also have a personal context that affects the way we read and interpret the Bible.  Our situations in life are vastly different from the situations of the original writers and audiences of the Biblical books.  This isn’t a bad thing.  We all have contexts in which we live.  The important thing is to be aware of ways our culture, our ways of thinking, our past experiences, and even our families affect our reading the Bible.

• Try to indentify specific ways the following aspects of your personal context might affect the way you read the Bible. (Note Them In Your Journal)

1. Family Origin

2. Current Family (In Your Household)

3. Religious or Nonreligious Background

4. Educational Background

5. Personality

6. Gifts and Talents

7. Where you live

 
• Read Psalm 32.  The first five verses celebrate God’s forgiveness, while verses 6-11 celebrate God’s protection and instruction for your life.

• Thinking about your personal context, what aspects of this Psalm might be easiest for you to grasp?

• Thinking about your personal context, what aspects of this Psalm might be the most difficult for you to grasp?

• Use the words of this Psalm to call out to the Lord in prayer.  Ask Him to direct you through His Word!

LISTEN:  Review this week’s materials and identify one thing you have learned that will help you listen to God’s Word more effectively.

UNDERSTAND:  In your journal, note one way you have grown in your understanding of God’s Word this week.

RESPOND:  In your journal, note one way you have responded meaningfully to God’s Word this week.

I want each of you to know, that I am praying for you specifically each day through our study.  I know how this study is affecting not just the way I read the Bible, but how I respond to it.

Pray for me, and we will walk together and experience the Spirit of God working through His Word in our lives.  God bless you and let me know how I can help you in any way.

Until He Comes,

Tracy