Our goal this week is to observe Eph 1:3-14.
On page 18 in our workbook, assignment #3 on Day One suggests that you make a bookmark for your key words. Key words are words the author repeats and are key to the meaning of a passage. We are given some key words to mark on Days One and Two: in Christ, love, in heavenly places, according to, grace, Holy Spirit. The workbook suggests using a 3x5 note card. That's a good idea....except that I usually fill up a note card pretty fast! You'll be adding more key words as we study each chapter. So, I fold a piece of paper in half lengthwise and use it as my book mark.
Although the workbook did not tell us to mark God and Jesus, I would encourage you to do so. It's rather challenging to do this in chapter 1, but if you have time, it would be a worthwhile thing to do. The process of trying to figure out whether Paul is describing God or Jesus is helpful! If you get stumped on certain verses, just put a little question mark next to that verse and we'll discuss it on Wed.
Some people do not like marking key words....and that's fine! If you don't like marking up the page, you certainly don't have to! But, if you do mark them, they will be easy to find and you might begin to see patterns in the text. For example, when you make a list on everything Paul says about 'in Christ' (assignment #2 on Day 2), the task will be easier if you've marked that phrase. Your eye will find that phrase quickly...and it will save you some time.
If you mark according to in chapter one, you'll notice a pattern developing. Do you see it?
Remember....inductive study begins with observing the text objectively. These study tools are designed to slow us down and help us observe the text carefully. We're trying to observe what Paul said and understand what he meant....when he was 'moved by the Holy Spirit' to write these verses (2 Pet 1:21).
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