What is Expository Bible Study?
The expository method of Bible study seeks to present truths, concepts and principles taught by Scripture passages in the manner intended by God.
Bible passages and doctrine should be presented entirely and exactly as it was intended by God. Preachers and teachers have used this method of study and presentation to proclaim he truth of God going back as far as Moses’ day.
To prepare an expository study, the individual starts with a passage of Scripture, then studies the grammar, the context, and the historical setting of that passage in order to understand the author’s intent. The expositor analyzes the text carefully and objectively and compares it to other related scriptures in order to present the topic as thoroughly as possible so that it can be presented to and understood by others.
While exposition is not the only valid mode of preaching or teaching, it is the best for teaching the plain sense of the Bible. Expositors usually approach Scripture with these assumptions:
1) The Bible is God’s Word. If every word of God is pure and true (Psalm 12:6; 19:9; 119:140), then every word deserves to be examined and understood.
2) Men need divine wisdom in order to understand the Word (1 Corinthians 2:12-16).
3) The teacher/student is subject to the text, not the other way around. Scripture is the authority, and its message must be presented honestly, apart from personal bias.
4) The expositor’s job is to clarify the text and call for a corresponding response from his hearers. Often a personal application is included.
An expositor cares little if the audience says, “What a great sermon” or “What an entertaining speaker.” The goal of expository study, teaching, share is to know what that passage means and better understand what God wants us to understand and what He requires of us.