Devotional Reading

Begin by reflecting on the passage

• What scares, confuses or challenges me in this test?
• What delights me in this text?
• What stories or memories does this text stir in me?
• What is God up to in this text?

Historical Reading

Seek to understand the world of the Bible and the setting of the text

• Who wrote this passage?
• Why was this text written?
• Where was this text written and what do we know about that part of the ancient world?
• How is this text similar to other ancient stories?
• When was this text written and what do we know about that time in history

Literary Reading

Pay attention to how the passage was written

• What is the plot?
• Who are the characters?
• What is the theme of this passage?
• What is the setting for this passage?

Lutheran Theological Reading

Consider the Lutheran perspectives that help ground our interpretation of the passage

• In what ways does this text point to or lead us to Christ?
• Can other passages in the Bible help us understand or interpret this passage?
• What is the plain meaning of this text?
• Is the interpretation we are commending accessible to everyone?

Taken from Opening the Book of Faith, 2008, Augsburg Fortress.