Lesson 2: The R.E.A.P. Study Method

“This book will keep you from sin, or sin will keep you from this book.”

We all struggle with reading the Bible and applying it to our lives. We've all gone through seasons where we don't seem to get anything out of our time in the Word. The REAP method (React, Examine, Apply, Pray) is a Bible reading tool that allows you to go deeper in your time reading the Word and to be more structured about applying the Scriptures to your life, either individually or in a small group. As you read the Bible using the REAP method, our hope for you is that it would lead you into a deeper knowledge of God, a more intimate trust in His Gospel, and more joyful obedience to the commands that God has for His church. All Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be equipped, having been thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16 LSB)

A. The R.E.A.P. Study Method
1. Read
Open your Bible and ask the Holy Spirit to teach, correct, and train you (2 Timothy 3:16). As you’re reading, ask these questions:
• What is happening in this passage? What things are emphasized, repeated, related?
• What do you see about God? What is God doing in this passage?
• What do you see about man?

2. Examine
Spend some time reflecting. Ask yourself these questions, and write down your thoughts:
• How do you think the author wants his audience to respond?
• What do you learn about God’s character?
• What wrong beliefs about God and myself did I have?

3. Apply
After examining the passage, apply the text to your own life. Ask yourself these questions:
• How do I need to repent? What truths do I need to believe? What false beliefs must I turn
from?
• What can I do – empowered by the Holy Spirit – today to apply this passage?

4. Pray
Pray through the passage and your application, asking God to change your heart and to change
your life, based on the time you’ve spent in God’s Word.
After you finish, share what God taught you with at least one person. Don't keep what God taught you to yourself.

This series was taught by Chris Reighley for the Sunday Night Bible Study at Rolling Hills Community Church in Lago Vista, Texas.