More ENSPEC Helps

When I’m reading and asking the ENSPEC questions (see previous blog) and come across a verse that grabs my attention but I’m not sure I fully understand its meaning I do a couple of things

1. I read it in context. I read the verses around it again to see if they help give understanding.

2. I use Bible Gateway and compare the verse in multiple translations ( I tend to look at the NLT ESV NCV CEV AMP GNT NKJV NIrV and JB PHILLIPS (NT only – paraphrase) and sometimes The MSG Paraphrase

3. If there’s a word I’m not sure about I’ll type the word in Bible Gateway under word search and see how the word is used in other places in Scrioture.

4. I sometimes use Study Light in looking at the original language of the passage.

5. I talk to trusted mature Christians and ask them about it.

6. And I have a number of commentaries I read – but this is usually the last resort and used primarily when I’m studying.

If you’re just getting started – you might consider steps 1-3, & 5

About bjrutledge

BJ & Janet were married in July 1977 They have three grown children who are all married: Jeremy & Whitney Rutledge, Chris & Julie Hurst, and Josh and Hannah Rutledge. They also have five grandsons, and a granddaughter. BJ says perhaps our greatest legacy is even though our kids are PK's, they love Jesus and are all involved in ministry in the local church. BJ has served at churches in Dallas - Bossier City, LA - Houston - and was at Fellowship of the Woodlands (Woodlands Church) in The Woodlands before coming to Grace Fellowship. BJ is the Legacy Pastor at Grace Fellowship Church in Paradise, TX.

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