BIBLE EXERCISES IN THE BIBLE GYM

This page consists of exercises in the exegesis and explanation of short (or sometimes longer) passages of Scripture. Helpful notes may be found on the answer page.

1. In Luke 4:1-13 we find the account of Christ's temptation in the wilderness.

What is the significance in Jesus quoting from the Old Testament to refute the devil?

What is going on in this incident, and what big issue is at stake?

2. Read the account of Christ's baptism in Matt.3:13-17. 

(You may also consult the other accounts in Mark 1:9-11, Luke 3:21,22 and John the Baptist's  words in John1:31-34.)

But now expound the Matthew passage explaining what Jesus is doing and the significance of the witnesses.

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3. In Exodus 6:1-8 we see God telling Moses what He is going to do for Israel.

What important long-term elements of God's plan do you see emerging here? In vs.6-8 what parallels do you see with what God has done elsewhere (and ultimately) in His plan of salvation?

4. Now in Exodus 19:5,6 we see another major statement by God.

What do you make of this, especially in the light of Deut.7:6-8? And how should we relate Ex.19:5,6 to the giving of the Ten Commandments in the next chapter (Ex.20:1-17)?

5.  What is Matthew setting out to do in the first two chapters of his gospel?

Read and examine Matt.1,2 and identify 6 factors by which Matthew presents his evidence. What is this evidence intended to convey and how does he achieve it?

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6. Analyse the contents of Titus 3:4-7.

These comparatively unknown verses contain an unusual concentration of statements about our salvation and the work of each member of the Trinity in it. Carefully tease out what you find there.

7. What is the purpose of asking for God's power in our lives in Col.1:10,11?

We hear a lot about 'power' in the Christian life as something to be greatly sought after. What does Paul say in Col.1:10,11 that this power is for?

8. Jesus' anointing by a sinful woman Luke 7:36-50

Read the passage and try to picture the scene. Answer just this one question 'In what ways was the prostitute's understanding about Jesus superior to Simon's (typifying the Pharisees)?'

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9. Jesus at the home of Martha and Mary Luke 10:38-42

Another passage which can be imagined and pictured. Try to fill in a few details from the human point of view. How do you react to the story? Who do you sympathise with, Martha or Mary?

10. Jesus speaking on the Emmaus Road Luke 24: 25-27

You will probably know the context of these verses. If not, read the whole section from 13-35. The time, of course, is immediately after Christ's resurrection. What is it about Jesus' words in v.26 that would have been so fundamentally difficult for his two hearers to understand? Why?

11. Jesus' conversation with the woman at the well John 4:1-26

This is a long (and fascinating) story full of very important teaching for us looking back into it. Try to unravel the woman's mixed-up reaction to Jesus' offer of water.  What does Jesus mean to imply in v.14a about never thirsting again?  What ideas does she have about worship and what does Jesus mean in vs.21-24? 

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12. John 10:11 'I am the good shepherd'. 

Have you ever wondered why Jesus called himself THE good shepherd? What did he expect his hearers to understand by it, do you think? If they were used to the idea of good and bad shepherds, why didn't he say he was the 'best' shepherd. We would have no difficulty in agreeing with that, knowing what we know about him.  

Having given  this some thought, turn to Ezekiel 34 and read the whole chapter. Remember Ezekiel is speaking to Israel who is going into exile in Babylon under God's judgement because they have failed to keep the covenant with him. How do you think the words apply to the new era brought in by Christ? See in particular vs.23,24. But there is a problem. David has been dead for 400 years! Explain.

13. The raising of Lazarus in John 11.

Read the whole passage. Outline the main features of the conversation between Martha and Jesus in vs. 17-27. Why did Jesus weep in v.35 taking account of vs.33b, 38a (why was he 'deeply moved and troubled' surely he knew what the outcome was going to be?) What was another outcome of the event -see vs.46-57.

14. Peter's words in Acts 2:22-24 and 32-34,36.

Explain these verses, pulling out all the key points.

to be continued ......

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