Tools for Verb Analysis
- Study Bible
- Other Contemporary Translations.
- Word Study Tools.
What is the Verb Analysis Bible Study Method?
In verb analysis bible study, we pick a verse or two that we want to study and meditate on. We take out the verbs, order them, and analyze the verse.
Use this method when don’t have much time but want to do a 15 to 25-minute Bible Study and prayer. It is quite good for some quiet times.
It is best to demonstrate this method. Let’s use Romans 8:28 for our demonstration.
“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”Look at the verse carefully and take out all the verbs. There are five verbs: know, causes, work together, love, are.
Procedure
1) Read the verse slowly, aloud, repeatedly, and with a pencil in hand
Read it 3 or 4 times. Read it at least once in a different translation if you have access to one.
2) Do a verb analysis
i) Notice their tenses: they are all in the present tense.
ii) Notice the subject of the verbs (what the verbs refer to–performs the actions described by the verb?): Three of them refer to Christians, one of them refers to God, and one of them refers to all circumstances of life.
iii) Notice the object of the verbs.
What does this verse say about God and us? : – We have been called according to God’s purpose, – Our love is poured out toward God, – God’s purpose toward us precedes our love for him.
iv) Consider the timing: – Our calling is in the past, – Our love for God is present (we have it now), – The good toward which all things ultimately work will often be in the future (the context tells you so). So if you suffer, there will be joy in the future.
v) Message type that the verse carries: Is this a promise, a command, or a statement of fact?: It is a statement of fact. So this is a statement of fact from God to us. That’s just the way things are. There is nothing that we need to do to qualify for this verse! It’s a fact! You can tell we are excited about this method. You can use it when you meditate on a verse as well. Choose a verse that has verbs and go for it.
vi) List the lessons that the verb teaches.
1)_________
2)_________
3)_________ and so on.
3) Meditate, pray, and apply
vii) Meditate on the verse.
viii) Pray
ix) Apply
