Going Deeper Into the Chronological Bible

May 14, 2025 | In this heartfelt chapel message, we wrap up a series on the SOAP method—Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer—by focusing on how prayer shapes our time with God. With personal stories, biblical examples from Jesus, and wisdom from voices like E.M. Bounds and Brother Steve Gaines, this episode challenges us to treat prayer not as a formality, but as the foundation of our spiritual lives. You'll be encouraged to pray before, during, and after reading Scripture, to approach God with reverence and honesty, and to remember that even the smallest prayer matters to the God who hears.

May 7, 2025 | This week we move into the “A” in the SOAP method: Application. Through practical teaching, real-life examples, and hands-on group work, the session focuses on bridging the gap between reading Scripture and living it. Using Ephesians 5:1–2, we explore how to find the theological principle in a passage and apply it to our current life situations. From misinterpreted verses to cultural distractions, we unpack what it really means to imitate God—and how knowing what the Bible says isn't enough if it never changes how we live.

April 30, 2025 | This session builds on last week’s introduction by focusing on the "O" in SOAP—Observation. You’ll learn how to read Scripture with understanding by focusing on authorial intent, avoiding eisegesis (reading into the text), and practicing exegesis (drawing meaning from the text). You'll also explore the genres of Scripture, how to identify significant details in context, and how all of Scripture ultimately points to Christ. The session includes discussion of key terms like plenary verbal inspiration, and walks through a breakdown of Philippians as a case study in thoughtful Bible reading.

April 23, 2025 | In this kickoff session, Josiah introduces the heart behind this series and walks through the SOAP method: Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. Emphasizing that this is not about head knowledge but transformation, he reminds us that we approach God’s Word not as casual readers, but as people being shaped for the work of ministry. Using passages like 2 Timothy 3:16 and Hebrews 4:12, he unpacks the authority and power of Scripture. This lays the foundation for how and why we study—because every follower of Christ is called to know, live, and teach God’s Word.