Inductive vs. Discovery: Key Differences And Benefits of Each
Ever wonder about the ways that people experience the Bible? Inductive Bible Study and Discovery Bible Study are just two ways people experience the Bible. In some ways they are similar, but they each have unique aspects that bring benefits to both.
The Inductive Bible study method is an approach to studying the Bible through comprehensive analysis of a passage, typically in individual study. A Discovery Bible Study is a discipleship method that uses an inductive approach to the Bible in group settings and focuses on personal application.
Ready to dive into these two methods of experiencing the Bible? Then read on to uncover the key differences and benefits of Inductive Bible study and Discovery Bible Study.
Inductive Bible Study Overview
Inductive Bible study is a method of Bible study that seeks to understand the Bible in its original context, find meaning, and carry that meaning into everyday life. This is done through an emphasis on careful observation of a passage and in-depth cultural, literary, and historical analysis.
The Inductive Bible method can be broken down into three phases, each phase asks a different question. Those are:
- Observation: What does the text say?
- Interpretation: What does the text mean?
- Application: How do I apply the meaning to my life?
These phases can be broken down into further steps to create an academic approach at analyzing the historical and cultural background of a passage in the Bible. Oftentimes, Inductive Bible study is used for individual study of the Bible and may require other Bible study tools and resources.
Do you want to study the Bible on your own, but don’t know where to start? Don’t worry. I’ve got you. This article will give beginners practical tips on how to study the Bible on their own for the first time.
And, if you are interested in knowing more about the Inductive Bible study method, like how to do it, then you should read this Inductive Bible Study Guide I created. It will walk you through the entire process step-by-step and provide free worksheets and an overview to help you develop your Bible Study habit.
| Inductive Bible Study | Discovery Bible Study | |
| Complexity | Complex and Demanding | Simple and Accessible |
| Depth of Study | Comprehensive Analysis | Personal Discovery |
| Use of Resources | Yes | No |
| Format | Individual Study | Group Study |
| Goals | Prioritizes Understanding the Text | Prioritizes Personal Application |
Discovery Bible Study Overview
Discovery Bible study is a disciple making method that uses inductive Bible study and eight questions to foster community, discovery, and obedience. It is primarily focused on getting non-believers, non-reached people groups, or even believers to become more like Jesus by obeying what He says.
This method will walk a group through stories from creation to Christ and use a question based teaching style to help group members discover the Bible. The eight questions are:
- How did it go taking your step of obedience last week?
- What are you thankful for?
- What is stressing you out this week?
- Do you have questions, doubts, breakthroughs, or insights from this Scripture?
- What does this passage tell us about God and how to relate to Him?
- What does this passage tell us about others and how we relate to them?
- What next step of obedience will you take?
- Who will you share what you learned with?
The first three questions help foster connection and community between the group. The next three help us discover something from God’s word. And the last two encourage us to obey what we’ve learned. These questions can be customized or changed to fit specific groups and contexts.
Overall, the Discovery Bible Study is a great place to begin leading a Bible study group or encouraging non-believers to experience the Bible in a comfortable judgement free place.
If leading a group Bible study is something you are interested in then this article about what to expect at a group Bible study will also help, as it will show you what a typical group Bible study looks like. And this article will show you how you can teach others to use the SOAP Bible study method.
