How to do a word study
Word studies are one of the basic tools of Bible study. With today’s tools, you don’t have to know Greek and Hebrew to do a good word study. Here’s how.
How to Cross Reference
Learn how to cross reference Scripture with a simple method: start near, test relevance, and let clear verses explain hard ones. Tools, examples, FAQs.
13 Cheerful Giver: How to Sow for a Lasting Harvest (2 Corinthians 8-9)
What does it really mean to give generously, and why does it matter? When Paul asks for money for the Jerusalem collection, he is doing more than asking the Corinthians to donate. He is inviting them to express their faith, restore broken trust, and unite with their spiritual family. If you have ever wrestled with when, why, or how much to give, this message will help you see giving in a whole new light.
These two chapters in 2 Corinthians give us a glimpse into how early Christians understood generosity and what it means to live as a cheerful giver.
Understanding the Gospels
The gospels are unique in content, although they are similar in form to ancient biographies.
How to Study Epistles
Learn a simple six-step method to study New Testament epistles: trace arguments, define key terms, and apply Scripture with confidence. Free checklist.
12 Why Gentiles Gave to Jerusalem (2 Corinthians 8-9 Background)
Paul devoted more than a decade of his ministry to the Jerusalem Collection. Understanding the story behind it helps us understand 2 Corinthians 8-9. Today we’ll explore the origin, purpose, and implications of the Jerusalem Collection, using events in Acts and Galatians to trace the evolving relationship between Paul, the Jerusalem apostles, and the Gentile churches.
Understanding Prophecy
Studying biblical prophecy is an often overwhelming task. Much of it is written in Hebrew poetry. The names and places are foreign, and the metaphors don’t always resonate with our modern ears. Yet we can usually understand the main point. If studying an Old Testament prophet overwhelms you, here are some tips to get you started.
September 2025 Reflections
Here’s what’s new on Wednesday in the Word in September, 2025. Two new resources this month: a free Bible Study Starter Kit and a brand-new page with all my free downloads in one place. NEW Free Resources Bible Study Starter Kit a simple, text-first method...
11 Godly Grief and Worldly Sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:2-16)
When should you say the hard thing that might upset your friend but also bring repentance and reconciliation, and when should you stay silent? How do you tell godly grief from the kind that only wounds?
In today’s passage, we follow Paul’s emotional journey after sending a sorrowful letter to the Corinthians. As he recounts his story, he teaches us why some truth-telling heals and restores while other apologies only reopen the wound.
Understanding Narratives
Narratives are true stories. Over 40% of the Old Testament Scriptures are narratives. Generally, the purpose of a biblical narrative is to show the Lord at work in His creation. Every genre found in the Bible presents unique challenges for understanding. Narratives are no exception. With narratives we think in scenes, plot and character, rather than paragraphs and outlines.
10 Unequally Yoked: Understanding Paul’s Warning (2 Corinthians 6:13-7:2)
“Do not be unequally yoked” is not a blanket ban on contact with unbelievers. It is a warning about binding yourself in partnerships that tug your heart away from Christ and deceiving nonbelievers into thinking they are on the right path.
Understanding Epistles
Every genre found in the Bible presents unique challenges for understanding. Here are guidelines for studying epistles.
About the Author
Krisan Marotta is a Bible teacher and host of Wednesday in the Word, the podcast about what the Bible means and how we know.