Diving deep into the world of Bible study methods, the SOAP Bible Study method stands out for its simplicity and effectiveness. It’s a popular choice due to its ability to slow us down, focusing our attention on just one or two verses at a time, revealing deeper truths in scripture we might otherwise miss.
Ideal for all ages, from teens to adults, it requires minimal resources—just the Holy Spirit, a Bible, some paper or a journal, and a pen or pencil.
So, let’s get conversational and explore the easy-to-follow SOAP method, a perfect companion for your Bible reading time.
THE SOAP BIBLE STUDY METHOD
As I mentioned above S.O.A.P is an acronym for:
- Scripture
- Observation
- Application
- Prayer
I will break down each one to create four easy steps.
Step 1 – S is for Scripture
- Choose a verse that resonates with you from your devotional time or a church service. Limit it to two or three verses to keep it simple.
- Write the verse down and read it multiple times slowly. There’s no rush.
Step 2 – O is for Observation
- Jot down what strikes you about the verse. What stirs your faith?
- Document truths you feel God is teaching you – warnings, principles, commands, etc.
- Try using resources like a Bible Dictionary, Commentary, Strong’s Concordance and other Bible tools for a deeper understanding.
Step 3 – A is for Application
- Reflect on how the observed truths can be applied in your life.
- Write down practical steps to bring these truths to life in your daily routine.
Step 4 – P is for Prayer
- Reflect on the previous steps and have a conversation with God. Share your thoughts and desires to apply His Word in your life.
- Ask for His grace, wisdom, and strength to make the necessary changes.
- You can write your prayer or verbalize it—whatever feels right for you.
So, that is the SOAP Bible Study method explained. I tried to make it easy and simple. Now I know for me, I like having an example. So, in the next section, I will provide one.
SOAP Bible Study Example
This example will be using Matthew 6:33-34 from the NIV. You can use any translation you prefer.
Scripture: Matthew 6:33-34 NIV
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Observation
When reading this passage, a few things really stuck out to me. One of those things is the word “first.” It really hits me hard.
God wants Himself to be “first” in our life. He wants His Kingdom (All the things He does and reigns in) and His righteousness, which makes me think of His personhood.
Those need to be our “firsts.” When we make God our first, we don’t need to worry because He takes care of us.
Application
Learning to let go of things and making God number one. Believing that He will take care of the things that stress me out.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your truth in your Word. Lord, I ask that you help me and give me the grace to make you my first in every aspect of my life. That I would seek hard after your Kingdom and your Righteousness.
God help me to trust you. I don’t need to worry about my day or the days to come, but as I seek You, you will make my path straight.
Thank you, Lord, for your love and goodness. May it cover me all the days of my life. In the mighty name of Jesus! Amen, and amen!!
I hope that example is helpful for you as you pursue your studies in God’s word. It truly is easy to glean from His word when you spend time in it and ask Him to reveal the truth to you.
If any of you lack wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. James 1:5
FREE PDF Template – SOAP BIBLE STUDY
If you want to try this method you can download my FREE SOAP Bible Study Printable by signing up for my newsletter below. The form makes it even easier to get your study on!
You will get access to the SOAP Printable and my other freebies and tons of other free Christian content!
Let me know below in a comment what some of your favorite Bible Study methods are and what you think of the SOAP method.
Melissa is a passionate minister, speaker and an ongoing learner of the Bible. She has been involved in church and vocational ministry for over 18 years. And is the founder of Think About Such Things. She has the heart to equip the saints by helping them get into the Word of God and fall more in love with Jesus. She also enjoys family, cooking, and reading.
She has spoken in churches in California, Oregon, Texas, and Mexico and has been featured in Guidepost Magazine and All Recipes Magazine. Read More…
Victoria M Blount
Thursday 27th of September 2018
Love this method
Melissa Tumino
Tuesday 2nd of October 2018
Me too, Victoria! :)
Annie Hoekstra
Thursday 27th of September 2018
I want to learn how I have to SOAP because I realy want to learn how it works in my daily live with God
Ashley Nicholson
Tuesday 18th of September 2018
Thanks for the printable!
Nevelyn
Monday 30th of October 2017
Brought me back to my days of a nursing student. We used SOAP notes at that time. I think this kind of SOAP note will stay useful for a very long time. Thank you. Oh yes, so glad I found you on pinterest.
Pam
Wednesday 14th of June 2017
I have never heard of this before. I will try it.Easy.