Learning to Use the Bible Student Journal

The Learning to Study the Bible Student Journal explains the basics of biblical criticism in a fun, age-appropriate way, and allows tweens to practice their Bible study skills through individual activities and reflection. They’ll explore the wonders of biblical geography and archaeology. They’ll compare and contrast biblical genres. They’ll learn the history of biblical interpretation, and discover that they are Bible interpreters too! The journal can be used in a group or family setting, or individually.



Session Outline and Learning Goals:

Who? Author and Audience

Spark curiosity about the authors and original audiences of the Bible
Introduce and use Bible dictionaries and commentaries
Sharpen deductive reasoning skills in biblical interpretation


What? Genre

Introduce and explore biblical genres
Learn to use Bible commentaries and apps to identify possible genres of texts
Explore the significance of genre for biblical interpretation


When? Context

Investigate the connection between context and meaning
Spark curiosity about biblical and modern cultural contexts
Use Bible dictionaries, commentaries, and handbooks to research biblical context


Where? Geography

Spark curiosity about the biblical landscape
Prompt reflection on the relationship between land and daily life
Use biblical maps and archaeological research to explore biblical geography


Why? Interpretation

Create awareness of interpretive lenses and layers
Spark curiosity about our own and others’ interpretive lenses
Use a concordance and various translations to compare meanings


How? Read Closely

Cultivate appreciation for the way our ancestors preserved the biblical text
Practice reading carefully and paying attention
Discover the four meanings of Scripture and practice interpreting them


How? Reread

Create awareness of our own role in making meaning
Prompt reflection on the nature of Scripture as the “living word of God”
Practice the ancient tradition of divine reading


How? Read Together

Create awareness of the diversity of voices within the canon
Inspire students to enter into the centuries-long biblical conversation
Practice reading the Bible inter-canonically

L.J. holds a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies from the University of Pennsylvania, and a Master of Divinity from Candler School of Theology at Emory University. Before coming to the United Methodist Publishing House, L.J. served as a Christian educator and minister to children, youth and adults in various congregations. She is the writer and editor of Submerge. L.J. enjoys connecting with the children and youth in her local Quaker meeting. She also loves biking around Nashville, knitting sweaters, and hiking with her dog.