What Is the SOAP Bible Study Method?
The study of the Word of God requires tremendous devotion and consistency for us to grow closer to Him and reflect Christ. I understand that it can feel daunting to read the Scriptures for the first time, given that 66 books that have been written over thousands of years go far beyond our time. One way to understand the Bible is through using what is known as the SOAP method. SOAP is an acronym for Study, Observation, Application, and Prayer. Let us look at each one of the steps in greater detail.
Study
Understanding Scripture requires much study. I find it essential to spend time in the Word. Many Christians fail to grow in their knowledge of scripture because they don’t study the Word. Bible illiteracy is a real thing and has become prevalent amongst churches today. We have replaced Bible-centered preaching with motivational speeches, comedy, and entertainment. I’d even go as far as to say that modern Christianity is more commercialized than Biblical because of how watered-down churches are.
We must return to the diligent study of the Scriptures so that our minds would be renewed in the Word of God (Romans 1:12). Such study involves reading the Bible through and through, from Genesis to Revelation. A key component in studying the Word is understanding it in context, that is, understanding what the text says in its grammatical-historical context. This includes asking what the author intends to relay their message to the day's audience. In other words, it is reading the text as it is instead of what we interpret it to be lest we distort its original message. Studying also helps us learn to love God “with all our mind,” which is one component of loving Him. There is nothing wrong with using logic and reasoning as they have been given by God so that we may comprehend His Word.
Observation
The second step in the SOAP method is observation, which involves asking questions after studying the Scriptures. These questions can include, “Who was this written to? What was its purpose? What does it reveal about Jesus? What does it reveal about humanity?” At its core, observation is getting an overview of reading the Bible, which is essential for understanding it. It teaches us to analyze what we’re reading to grasp the Scriptures in their proper context better.
Ideally, observation keeps one from asking, “What does the Scripture mean to me?” and rightly asks, “What is Scripture saying to me as it is intended to say?” As the Word of God, the Lord speaks to us primarily from the Scriptures, whose truths are everlasting yet applicable to life and godliness.
Application
After studying and observing the Scriptures, we consider applying what we have just read. In Donald S. In Whitney's book, Spiritual Disciplines For The Christian Life, he lays out several questions that are meant to lead to application:
• Does this text reveal something I should believe about God?
• Does this text reveal something I should praise, thank, or trust God for?
• Does this text reveal something I should pray about for myself or others?
• Does this text reveal something I should have a new attitude about?
• Does this text reveal something I should decide about?
• Does this text reveal something I should do for Christ, others, or myself?
Applying God’s Word is non-optional for the Christian. Although works do not save us, we are saved for works (Eph. 2:10). Elsewhere in Scripture, we see that “faith without works is dead” (James 2:17). This shows how the Christian life is evidenced by good works, which come through obedience. In that same verse, James says, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves” (James 1:22). We must practice what we preach; otherwise, what is the point of affirming these words, yet do the opposite? I know that does not mean perfection, but there needs to be a desire to grow in the Lord, which is demonstrated through our obedience to Him in our lives.
Prayer
In our last step on the SOAP Bible Study Method, we end by praying to the Lord. As God has spoken to us through His Word, we speak to Him through prayer. Far beyond an obligation, prayer is an opportunity and a privilege to be in communion with our Heavenly Father. When we pray, we are reminded that we need the Lord in all things. Overall, we want to spend time with Him so we may grow closer to Him and reflect Christ.
Consider taking the Bible verse or passage you have just read and reading it aloud to the Lord in prayer. As you pray, ask God to give you wisdom so you can apply His Word in your life and make His Word a reality for His glory.
Conclusion
The SOAP Bible Method is one way Christians can study God's Word. It is beneficial for new Christians who don’t know where to begin, but seasoned believers can likewise apply this method to make time for God’s Word. Whatever method is used, I pray that believers who want more of God will devote themselves to receiving what He has said in His Word.
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Originally published March 22, 2025.
