When we study God’s Word, context isn’t optional—it’s essential. As we say in Bible Study, Context is King. In this episode, we explore why placing each book of the Bible in its historical and spiritual context matters deeply. Understanding the original audience, setting, author and purpose protects us from misinterpretation and helps us grasp the true meaning behind the text. Whether you're reading the prophets or the epistles, context will open your eyes to the truth, richness and depth of Scripture. Let’s learn how to study the Bible with clarity, wisdom, and confidence.

HOMEWORK:

WHO: Who are the characters in the story? Who wrote the book?

WHAT: What is happening in the story? Write a short summary.

WHEN: When did this story take place?

WHERE: Where did this story take place? Get out a Bible map and find these places on the map.

WHY: Why is this story happening?

HOW: How is God revealing Himself in this story?

Resources:

Study Bible

Bible Project

Crossway: Christ in All of Scriptures

The Bible Hub

When you open your Bible to study God's Word, where do you begin? In this episode, we’re talking about the essential first step: Reading Big. Before diving into the details of a verse or chapter, you need to read through the entire book of the Bible to grasp the big picture. Understanding the full context transforms your Bible, and are the building blocks of your future studies. Because Bible study isn’t just about gathering details—it’s about knowing God more deeply through His Word.

Homework: Read through the book of Ruth.

Before you open your Bible, pause. In this episode, we explore why prayer is the essential first step in any meaningful Bible study. Whether you're new to Scripture or a seasoned student of God’s Word, inviting the Holy Spirit to guide, teach, and soften your heart can transform how you read and respond to the truth of Scripture.

We’ll talk about how prayer aligns our hearts with God’s, quiets distractions, opens our spiritual eyes, and creates space for deep connection with the Living Word. You'll hear practical tips for praying before Bible study, scriptural examples of those who sought God in prayer before gaining insight, and a sample prayer to help you begin your time in the Word with intention.

If you long to hear God more clearly, understand the Bible more deeply, and grow in intimacy with Him—start here. Before we study, we pray.

Be in touch!

You can find the link to Kristina's study on prayer HERE.

https://heatherjjonsson.com/

In this episode, we dive into the big story of the Bible — a unified narrative of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible tells the sweeping story of God's love. Whether you're new to Scripture or a longtime believer, this episode will help you trace the Bible's central message and understand how Jesus is at the heart of it all.

📝 Homework:
After listening, try writing a short paragraph that summarizes the big story of the Bible. Send us your summary for a chance to win a Starbucks giftcard!

Heather:

https://www.instagram.com/heatherjjonsson/

https://heatherjjonsson.substack.com/

Kristina:

https://www.instagram.com/kristinareneexo/?hl=en

https://www.facebook.com/kristina.r.wise

Welcome! We are so glad you are here! Bible Study Besties is here to help you gain confidence in studying God's Word so you can love God by knowing God.

If you have wanted to study God's Word, but aren't sure where you start, then you are in the right place!

Join the conversation:

Heather:

http://heatherjjonsson.com/

https://heatherjjonsson.substack.com/

Kristina:

https://www.instagram.com/kristinareneexo/?hl=en