What does SOAP mean in UNCLASSIFIED

SOAP is a four-step approach to studying Scripture which focuses on observing what the text says, interpreting what it means, applying it to our lives, and then praying about what we have learned. It’s a great way to ensure that your time reading the Bible has purpose and direction and helps you grow in your relationship with God.

SOAP is an acronym that stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. Each of these steps is focused on helping us learn more about God through His Word. First we read the passage selected for study (Scripture). This is followed by noting any Observations which can be made from the passage such as whom it was addressed to or who wrote it. We gather those observations together into one coherent thought or idea before considering how we might apply them to our own life (Application). Finally we take time to Pray about what we have read and learned, asking God to help us understand it more clearly and show us how He wants us to live out its truths in our daily lives.

SOAP provides structure and direction when studying the Bible which can help you get more out of each reading session. It encourages thoughtful consideration of a passage by encouraging observation of each individual text's context, symbolism, characters involved etc., allowing you to gain insight into how the Scriptures can relate directly to your life today. By taking time at the end of your study period to specifically pray about what you’ve just read and learned provides focus on deepening your relationship with God through His Word.

The first step in using SOAP is starting out with Scripture - this could be finding a specific passage from within the Bible or reading an entire book from beginning to end. Once you've chosen a section or book of scripture that you'd like to study spend some time familiarizing yourself with it so you know which verses will form part of your study session today.

Observing with SOAP involves breaking down each part of the passage separately before putting all the pieces back together into one cohesive thought/application/prayer for that particular day and/or topic studied. Look for common themes among verses or try comparing two passages side-by-side; ask yourself questions such as "What does this tell me?" or "How did this happen?" - these are all ways of engaging with the scriptures so you can gain even more understanding than just simply reading them at face value!

Interpreting scripture during the second step of the SOAP process requires digging deeper into its meaning by researching related terms in other translations or commentaries as well as background information surrounding particular events mentioned within a text in order to fully understand why they were included in that chapter/book/passage etc. This also allows us to make connections between stories found across different parts of the Bible too!

Applying scripture takes understanding one step further by exploring how its meaning relates directly back into our daily realities - considering our present circumstances based upon gospel truth proclaimed throughout scripture and how principles within God's Word can help shape decisions made here on earth now! Don't forget practical aspects like prayer too - praying over situations rather than relying solely on self-effort will help ensure successful outcomes regardless!