Method Six - The Topical Method of Bible Study
Previously you encountered the Thematic Method in which you studied a narrow theme of the Bible in simple detail asking prepared questions of verses from a chosen list. With the topical study you will study a topic of the Bible, which may contain several themes, and you will not be asking prepared questions, instead you will be recording all insights you find from your study. The topical method will usually take longer than the thematic so you will want to assure yourself that sufficient time is available to at least make a significant start on the study.
6.1 - Tools
6.1.1 - Bible
6.1.2 - Exhaustive concordance and/or cross references
6.1.3 - Topical Bible
6.2 - Hints (taken from Dr. R. A. Torrey)
6.2.1 - Be systematic by listing all the concepts related to your topic, being as comprehensive as possible and study each idea individually and in systematic and logical order.
6.2.2 - Be thorough by as much as possible making a study of every verse that relates to the topic.
6.2.3 - Be exact, trying to get the exact meaning for each verse you are studying. Remember not to remove the verses from their context but use the context to help you in your study.
6.3 - Steps
Step 1 - Compile a list of words related to the topic you will study
Step 2 - Collect all references relating to each word
Step 3 - Consider each reference individually
Step 4 - Compare and group the references
Step 5 - Condense the results of your study into a brief outline
Step 6 - Conclude your study
