How to do a Scripture Study
A scripture study is the careful examination of a Bible passage. Although a scripture study could be focused on a single verse, it is usually important to study a larger portion of scripture in order to understand the context. Every single reference work type in your OneTouch® library is likely to come into play when doing a scripture study.
(Note: The following description is one possible way to conduct a scripture study using the tools available in the OneTouch® library. There are literally hundreds of variations. Bottom line: become familiar with the tools that are available to you and use them to explore!)
Begin by opening a Bible window to the desired passage. Read and reread the passage. Use the 
button (located on the lower toolbar) to add multiple panes to your Bible window, and compare the passage in different Bible versions.
Now, jot down any questions that you have about the passage. For example, who wrote it? To whom? When? Why? Is this primarily a historical account of something that happened? Is it prophetic? Is it poetic? Or is it a letter? What did the author mean? And how does it apply to us today?
After you jot down your questions it's time to go looking for answers. Use the Smart Reference™ buttons to begin accessing the other reference works in your OneTouch® reference library that have related information:
Dictionary/Encyclopedia articleswill often answer who, what, when, and where types of questions. They provide an excellent source of background information. While reading related articles, keep an eye out for cross-references into Maps and Photos that might help provide a visual aid for your Bible study.
The Interlinear Bible is an invaluable reference work and serves as the focal point for original language study--without requiring you to be a Greek or Hebrew scholar! See How to do a Word Study for a detailed, how-to description.
Reference works found in the Topical Bible and Cross-reference Tools categories will provide topic-to-verse and verse-to-verse cross references, enabling you to begin comparing other scriptures to the passage that you are currently studying.
Finally, the Commentary reference works provide a thorough examination of scripture passages. This is a good place to look after you have formed some of your own opinions about the scripture. Then ask yourself, how was the author's interpretation different than mine? Why? What is the scriptural basis? You will find this process of "wrestling with the meaning" to be an invaluable to in-depth Bible study! And be sure to compare several Commentary reference works. Pay close attention to the areas where they disagree, and why? Then ask yourself, "What do I believe?" And, "Why?"
If you wish, begin recording your findings in your own personal commentary--that will become a fully integrated part of your OneTouch library. See Creating a Personal Commentary for step-by-step instructions.
Also, any and all of the other study methods listed below can be used to help you dig deeper into any scriptural study!
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