Bible Study Tools & Resources
Shape & Sharpen Method
The original Shape & Sharpen 5 step bible study method. Perfect for in-depth bible study as well as daily personal devotions.
HEAR Journal method
The HEAR journal method is great for short devotions and meditating on your daily bible readings.
RANSOM Method
The RANSOM Method recommended by the Doctrine & Devotion podcast is really helpful for personal bible study.
The Shape & Sharpen 5 Step Method
Hear Journal
The HEAR journal method is good for personal devotions and drawing application from your daily Bible reading. Get yourself a journal and write a brief response to your readings using the HEAR outline.
1. Highlight
Identify a single verse or statement from the text as the focus statement of your reading.
2. Explain
Briefly explain what is being said and what the main point of the verse or passage is.
3. Apply
Apply the main point to your own life and write down what God is teaching you in this text.
4. Respond
Write down a prayer to God, thank Him for what He has taught you in this passage and ask for His help.
RANSOM Method
The RANSOM method is recommended by Joe Thorn and Jimmy Fowler of the Doctrine & Devotion podcast and Redeemer Fellowship in St. Charles, Illinois.
1. Read
Read the passage of Scripture slowly and carefully. Read it multiple times and in different translations if you can.
2. Ask
Ask questions about the text. All of the questions in the Shape & Sharpen 5-Step Study Guide are good questions to ask.
3. Note
As you work through the passage, note the main idea, key words/phrases, repititions and doctrines being emphasized.
4. Summarize
Think carefully through everything you have noted so far and then summarize the main idea of the passage in your own words.
5. Obey
Ask yourself, “What would obedience to this passage look like in my life?” What do I need repent of and what do I need to believe?
6. Meditate
Try to memorize the key verse(s) of the text you have studied. Think about what you have learned during the day and pray about it.
Weekly Briefing
