This sounds simple, right? It can be easy once you get the hang of it. There are up to four levels of questioning when studying a block of scripture.
First are the search questions.
This is what we ask ourselves the who, what, how, where and why. This step is like giving the context of the scripture before you can teach from that scripture. Once we have familiarized ourselves with the scripture block or verse, we move to the second step.
Second is to analyze for understanding.
“Analyze” questions are asked after we have become familiar with the verses we are studying and have more than one possible answer.
Third are questions to invite feelings and testimony.
“Invite feelings and testimony” questions help us think about and understand gospel doctrines and principles that lead us to reflect on our own feelings and spiritual experiences. Sometimes these questions come naturally after we have asked ourselves analyzing questions. Other times we truly have to ask for us to be able to feel. Most important about these sets of questions, is that they truly invite the spirit into our lives. It is a true reflection of how our Father has touched our lives. But…we don’t want to end here!
Fourth are questions of application.
“Encourage Application” questions require students to look at their lives and what they might do to make their lives better. This is the hardest step to remember. We have those feel goods like when we listen to conference but don’t quite act after we listen. DEVISE YOUR ACTION PLAN!! Apply what you learn when you read the scriptures!!
Just thinking of studying the scriptures sometimes sounds impossible or unimaginable. Remember, “And out of small things proceedeth that which is great.” It isn’t unimaginable or impossible. It only takes one foot step at a time. It takes Action.
These questions can help in taking those small steps to reach our great goal.