SOAP Bible study is a method that involves Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. It’s a way to delve deeper into the Bible and apply its teachings to one’s life. Let’s apply this method to our SOAP Bible Study: John 3:31-36, which contains John the Baptist’s testimony about Jesus’ divine origin and authority:
Scripture
“The one who comes from above is above all; the one who is from the earth belongs to the earth, and speaks as one from the earth. The one who comes from heaven is above all. He testifies to what he has seen and heard, but no one accepts his testimony. Whoever has accepted it has certified that God is truthful. For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit. The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.” (John 3:31-36)
Observation
In this passage, John the Baptist contrasts Jesus, who comes from above, with earthly beings. Jesus, coming from heaven, holds authority over all and testifies to divine truths. Although His testimony is often rejected, those who accept it affirm the truthfulness of God. Jesus speaks the words of God and is endowed with the Spirit without measure. The Father’s love for the Son is evident as He places all things in Jesus‘ hands. The passage concludes with a stark contrast between the outcomes for those who believe in the Son and those who reject Him: eternal life for believers and remaining under God’s wrath for rejecters.
Application
This passage calls us to recognize and affirm the divine authority of Jesus. Accepting His testimony means acknowledging the truth of God. We are reminded of the importance of believing in Jesus, as belief leads to eternal life. This underscores the urgency of our faith and our need to share the message of Jesus with others. The passage also highlights the comprehensive authority given to Jesus by the Father, prompting us to trust in His sovereignty over all aspects of our lives. Reflecting on this can deepen our faith and commitment to living according to Jesus’ teachings.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for coming from heaven to testify to the truth and to bring us eternal life. Help us to recognize Your divine authority and to accept Your testimony wholeheartedly. Strengthen our faith in You and our commitment to live according to Your teachings. May we trust in Your sovereignty and share the message of salvation with others. Thank You for the gift of eternal life and for Your unfailing love. Amen.
Let our SOAP Bible Study: John 3:31-36 be just the beginning. Let it ignite a deeper desire within you to continue exploring the Scriptures. Each chapter and verse in the Gospel of John is rich with divine revelation waiting to be uncovered. I encourage you to keep studying, keep questioning, and keep seeking the light that Jesus offers. Dive deeper into the free Bible outlines available, engage with the full text, and allow God’s word to continuously transform your heart and mind. Embrace this journey of faith with enthusiasm and let the Word that was in the beginning guide you each step of the way.
