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 3:16-21, which contains one of the most well-known and cherished passages in the Bible:
Scripture
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.” (John 3:16-21)
Observation
This passage highlights the core of the Christian faith: God’s immense love for humanity, demonstrated through the giving of His only Son, Jesus, so that those who believe in Him may have eternal life. Jesus came not to condemn the world, but to save it. Belief in Jesus brings salvation and freedom from condemnation, while rejection of Him leads to judgment. The passage also contrasts light and darkness, illustrating how people often reject the light (Jesus and His truth) because it exposes their evil deeds. However, those who seek truth come into the light, showing that their actions are done in alignment with God’s will.
Application
John 3:16-21 calls us to reflect on our relationship with Jesus and the nature of our faith. We are reminded of the depth of God’s love and the extraordinary gift of salvation available to us through belief in Jesus. This passage challenges us to live in the light, embracing truth and transparency in our actions, and rejecting the darkness of sin. It encourages us to examine whether we are hiding any areas of our lives from God’s light and to bring them into the open, trusting in His grace and forgiveness. Our response to Jesus’ sacrifice should be one of gratitude, faith, and a commitment to living according to His truth.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your incredible love for us, shown through the gift of Your Son, Jesus. Help us to fully believe in Him and embrace the eternal life You offer. Teach us to live in the light, seeking truth and rejecting sin. Give us the courage to expose any hidden areas of our lives to Your transforming light and to trust in Your grace and forgiveness. May our lives reflect Your love and truth, drawing others to the hope we have in Jesus. Amen.
Let our SOAP Bible Study: John 3:16-21 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.
