BIBL 360: Methodical Study of Scripture – Methodical Bible Study Project

Complete a full methodical study of one approved New Testament passage using the four-step process of observation, interpretation, correlation, and application.

Assignment Instructions

Select one passage from the approved list (Ephesians 4:25-32, Colossians 3:1-17, James 1:19-27, or 1 Peter 1:13-21). Conduct a thorough exegetical study following the structured approach taught in the course. Your paper must include a detailed observation of the text, interpretation of its original meaning in historical and literary context, correlation with the broader biblical canon, and concrete contemporary application for believers today.

Requirements

• Length: 1,200–1,500 words (excluding title page, bibliography, and any charts)
• Format: Double-spaced, 12-point Times New Roman, 1-inch margins
• Citation Style: Turabian 9th edition (footnotes and bibliography)
• Sources: Minimum of five scholarly sources, including the course textbook and at least two peer-reviewed journal articles
• Submission: Upload via the course assignment link by 11:59 p.m. ET, Sunday of Week 7

Grading Rubric

1. Observation (30 points) – Detailed, accurate, and comprehensive examination of the text
2. Interpretation (30 points) – Sound historical-grammatical exegesis with strong contextual understanding
3. Correlation & Application (25 points) – Clear canonical connections and relevant, specific life application
4. Research & Sources (10 points) – Quality and appropriate use of scholarly sources
5. Mechanics, Style & Format (5 points) – Clarity, grammar, Turabian formatting

Total: 100 points

Paul urges the Ephesians to replace lying with truthful speech that builds up others. He grounds this command in the new identity believers receive in Christ as members of one body. This ethical instruction calls contemporary Christians to examine their words and use language that promotes unity rather than division.

References (Harvard Format)

1. Duvall, J.S. and Hays, J.D., 2020. Grasping God’s Word: A Hands-On Approach to Reading, Interpreting, and Applying the Bible. 4th edn. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan. DOI: 10.13109/9783666570074
2. Brown, J.K., 2020. Scripture as Communication: Introducing Biblical Hermeneutics. 2nd edn. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. DOI: 10.1515/9781493429189
3. Plummer, R.L., 2019. 40 Questions About Interpreting the Bible. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Academic.
4. Köstenberger, A.J., Merkle, B.L. and Williams, J.D., 2020. Going Deeper with Biblical Hebrew. Nashville, TN: B&H Academic. DOI: 10.2307/j.ctv17v7z8v
5. Virkler, H. and Ayayo, K., 2021. Hermeneutics: Principles and Processes of Biblical Interpretation. 3rd edn. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic.