SOAP Bible Study Method – Free Printable

In this article we will be explaining the SOAP Bible study method. I will answer the question – what does SOAP stand for in the Bible study and exactly what is the SOAP method? Don’t leave without getting your free printable PDF template of the SOAP Bible study method.

You might like the “3 Question Bible Study Method” (also comes with a printable!).

The most effective way to improve mental health, wellness and relationships is through Bible study. God’s Word is powerful, transforming us from the inside out (Hebrews 4:12) . Check out the “Benefits of Bible Study” here.

Scripture literally renews our mind (Romans 12:2), giving us a better understanding of ourselves, the world around us and most importantly, God. I’m living proof of the life changing power of Scripture. It is through God’s Word that I have learned how to take thoughts captive, enabling me to entirely change the way I think. Changing my thought life has literally changed my life.

Benefits of SOAP Bible Study Method

First, and foremost, any amount of time in God’s Word, is time well spent. Second, the SOAP Bible study method works on any passage or verse you would like to study. This frees you up to choose any passage from a book of the Bible that interests you. Third, when life gets busy, the SOAP Bible study method can be done in shorter spans of time. 

What is the  SOAP Study Method?

This method of Bible study gives direction to your time in God’s Word. It is one method of learning and applying God’s Word to your life.

Tips when using the Bible Study

In the SOAP Bible study method, prayer is how you close your time with God. However, I want to encourage you to open with prayer, as well. Whenever  I open the Word of God I pray that His Holy Spirit will illuminate and guide my time in Bible study. Pray for wisdom – He promises to give wisdom abundantly when we ask (James 1:5).

Choose to move through a specific book of the Bible with this soap bible study method, rather than skipping around. The Bible already breaks up chapters into sections/paragraphs. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Follow the natural breaks in each chapter.

Take the time to write out the verse that spoke to you rather than just jotting down the address. I find this helps with remembering God’s truth as well as writing it on my heart (Proverbs 7:3). I even encourage you to jot down the verse on a 3×5 card and begin a stack of scripture cards that speak to your heart.

Finally, look for opportunities to share what you learned in the soap Bible study method. Tell your spouse or a friend what God showed you in Scripture. Not only does it bless and encourage others – it declares His glory (Psalm 96).

What does SOAP stand for in Bible study?

S – Scripture

First, choose the passage of scripture for your study. As you meditate on truth, choose one verse that God used to speak to your heart. write out that verse in the first section.

O – Observation

In the observation section of the SOAP Bible study method, identify what is going on in the Bible verse you chose. Jot down any warnings are commands. Do any words stand out to you?

A – Application

Next, how does the verse you chose apply to your life? Ask yourself, “how can I live in light of what I’ve learned?”

 P – Prayer

In closing, pray God’s Word, your chosen verse, back to Him. Ask God to help you apply what you’ve learned to your life. Pray that He would open your eyes to opportunities to live out what you learned through your Bible study time.

Soap Bible Study Example

Romans 12:1-2

S – Scripture

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:1-2

O – Observation

Paul is writing to the Romans telling them to offer themselves as living sacrifices. He also warns not to conform to the pattern of this world and to be transformed by the renewing of their minds. He then encourages them that the result of these things is knowing/understanding God’s will.

A – Application

I need to be intentional and purposeful in renewing my mind by being and God’s Word. By doing so, I will better understand God’s will for my life.

P – Prayer

Lord, strengthen my flesh to be in your Word. Help me to make this a part of my daily life, even when I don’t feel like it. Help me to choose time with you over sleeping in and scrolling my phone. Thank you for your faithfulness to me even when I am not always faithful to you.

Wrapping Up

Remember that the SOAP Bible Study is one of many methods to learning and applying God’s Word to your life.This Bible study identifies one scripture from any passage you choose. First, you write out the scripture of your choice from the passage. Then the observation section is used to identify what is going on in that passage. This is a good time to write down any warnings or commands. The third section is the application part. This is where you take the verse of your choosing and apply it to your life. And finally, prayer. This is an opportunity to pray God’s Word over your life asking Him to help you apply what you’ve learned from the passage of scripture you studied.

What are your thoughts? Leave any questions or comments below. Add your own tips for Bible study in the comments as well!