Structure (skeleton): Clarify thought or argument development
- Literary/theological context
—what is the main point of paragraph before and
after?
- Main point
(claim)—state the central point of the paragraph
- Imperatives
- Connective words such as: thus, so, therefore, then…
- Overarching, controlling idea—big picture statement, a universal
- Independent clause expressing a complete thought
- Note: Sometimes there is more than one main point, or main point is implicit
- Supporting points
—list as individual summary phrases (with verse number), the
bases for the main claim: why it’s true or why we should do what it says
- Indicative statements
- Connective words: since, because, for, if…
- Dependent clauses
- Particular, illustration or example
Theology (muscle)—understand the content of the paragraph
- Identify and define unfamiliar and key words (see Vines Expository Dictionary)
- State theological meaning of claim and supporting points, including how the theology of
supporting points relates to the main claim
- What other passages might bear on your interpretation?
Application (skin)—what to do?
- How is the argument of the paragraph intended to affect the original audience in terms
of actions, attitudes, convictions?
- How is the argument of this passage relevant to me/my group?
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