For the word of God is living and active and full of power [making it operative, energizing, and effective]. It is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating as far as the division of the soul and spirit [the completeness of a person], and of both joints and marrow [the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and judging the very thoughts and intentions of the heart.
hebrews 4:12 amp
The Bible is about God.
It is living, active, discerning, and powerful. The Word of God transforms our minds and our hearts.
As we read the Bible, we learn more about who God is and as a result, we get glimpses into who we are as children of God.
True power is in the application of the Word.
What is Verse Mapping?
Verse mapping is a method for studying an individual verse or short passage of scripture in the Bible. The process considers historical context, original language, translations, and cross-references as the mapper examines the text. The process is highly individualized, but here are a few areas to review when doing your own verse map:
Key Steps
01. select a verse
Choose a verse or passage that you would like to map. Read the full chapter. Then, read the verse or passage a few times to familiarize yourself with it.
02. context
Use a trusted resource to explore the writer, original audience, date, and location. Consider the purpose, genre, and where the passage fits into the metanarrative.
03. Translation
Review 2 to 3 different translations of the verse or passage you selected. Consider the different word choices of translators (word for word, thought for thought, meaning for meaning).
04. Themes
As you study, certain themes should begin to emerge. Were there any words or phrases that were repeated? Were there any characteristics or promises of God?
05. cross-reference
Use trusted resources to find cross-reference verses or passages that have similar language or themes. You may want to look up terms in Greek or Hebrew to add more depth to your study.
06. summary
At this point, you should be able to summarize what the verse or passage means in simple terms.
07. reflect
The Bible is first and foremost about God. After mapping, ask yourself, ‘What did this teach me about God?’ We should be able to answer this question each time we approach the Word.
08. apply
As we learn more about God, we understand more about ourselves as His sons and daughters. Ask yourself, ‘How does this change how I live as a child of God?’
Here are a few verses to get started…
- John 3:16
- For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
- Matthew 6:33
- But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
- Jeremiah 29:11
- For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
- Romans 8:28
- And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
- Isaiah 40:31
- But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
- 2 Corinthians 5:17
- Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.
- Matthew 11:28
- Come to me, all who are weary, and I will give you rest.
- Matthew 28:19
- Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
- Philippians 4:13
- I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
- Proverbs 3:5
- Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.