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Creative Bible Study
The word "that" sets forth a purpose. It tells that something happened "in order that" a certain purpose would be accomplished:
And He came and dwelleth in a city called Nazareth; THAT it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene. (Matthew 2:23)
Watch also for the connecting words "for, because, therefore." These words introduce reasons and results:
But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion on them, BECAUSE they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. (Matthew 9:36)
The words "in, into, and with" are also important connectives. They also indicate relationships between concepts:
He turned the sea INTO dry land and they went through the flood on foot: there did we rejoice in Him. (Psalm 66:6)
General Structure:
As you study paragraphs observe the arrangement of ideas and how the verses relate to each other. Sometimes the author makes a general statement, then explains it with examples. Other times he lists a series of ideas and then summarizes with a general statement.
In the example given later in this chapter, you will note that Jude wrote several paragraphs listing characteristics of false teachers. He then gave Old Testament examples which illustrated what he was teaching.
Repetitions:
Each word of the Bible is inspired by the Holy Spirit. When words or phrases are repeated it is because they are especially important. The Holy Spirit inspired the writers to repeat words and phrases in order to fix them in your memory.
The words "verily, verily" are an example of this. When Jesus preceded a statement with these words it was like an announcer saying "May I have your attention please. I have an important announcement to make." Study in detail any words, phrases, or verses that are repeated.
Questions And Answers:
It is also important to observe the questions and answers of the Bible. Often an author will introduce a subject by asking a question. He will then explain this question and give answers which relate back to the question. A good example of this is Romans 6. Read the entire chapter. Note the questions in verses l-3 and the answers developed throughout the chapter.