Observation - Overview
	Since the beginning of an inductive process involves noting the particulars, it is logical that the initial step of methodical Bible study should be that of observation. -Robert Traina

Study Tips

1. Print out the book or passage that you are going to study.
2. Use colored pencils, pens, highlighters to mark up the text, identifying keywords.
3. Create paragraph or chapter headings, and try to identify the purpose of the book.
4. Write questions, observations, notes, etc in the margins or between lines.

Observation

Things to be Observed

1. Terms
2. Structure
3. Form
4. Atmosphere

Things That Should Catch Your Eye

Within the four things we observe (terms, structure, form and atmosphere) it is easy to get bogged down. It is simply not practical to do a word study on every term that occurs in scripture. So what shoud catch our eye? What things should we take special note of?

1. The big picture. Who, What, When, Where, Why, How. Author, Recipient, Purpose,
2. Things that are repeated (Ps. 119).
3. Things that are emphasized (Rom 11:34-36; Gal 3:1-3). Amount of space is an indication of emphasis.
4. Things that are related (Q&A e.g. Rom 6:1. Cause & Effect e.g. Acts 8:1).
5. Things that are alike/ unalike (Ps 42:1; 1 Pet 2:2 and Gal 5:22; Rom 8:36-39)
6. Things that are true to life (Gen 22:2; Mk 4:41).

Homework

1. Print out and mark up 3 John.
2. Read these excerpts:
   The Student, the Fish, and Agassiz
   The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes