The Devotional to End All DevotionalsSample

Before we get to today’s lesson, let’s learn a new Bible study method. 

The Target method is an outside-in approach to Bible study. Application heavy, it urges you to respond honestly to God and act immediately on what you’ve learned. 

The Target Method consists of three simple questions that guide you through the Bible study process. Picture in your mind a bull’s eye target with two rings and a heart in the center. Each of these three elements represents one of the questions included in the Target Method.

First Question:  Outer Ring- What does it say? (Summarize the passage.)

Second Question:  Inner Ring- What is God saying to me? (Take it personally.)

Third Question:  Center Heart- How will I respond? (Plan for change.)

Practice the Target method when you study today’s passages. Remember that you will only get out of your personal Bible study what you put into it. Don’t rush. Listen. Think. Be thorough.

Now, back to the study.

Evangelism is the sharing of the gospel (or good news) of Jesus Christ. All followers of Christ are to be evangelists and share the gospel with others on a regular basis. 

Evangelism is a group effort. As a follower of Christ, you have a responsibility both to your brothers and sisters in Christ and to those who don’t know Christ yet to share the gospel. It’s not right to depend on others to do your job. If you don’t know how to share the gospel, find out how. Then teach others. 

Use the God Follower method to study today’s passage. 

1. What does this passage tell me about God? 
2. What does this passage tell me about being a follower of God?

Now use the Target method to study today’s passage. 

Which method did you find to be most helpful in this instance? Why? Depending on the verse(s) you happen to be studying and your purpose for studying, you could find either the God Follower or the Target method to be more helpful than the other at any given time. Continue to practice both so you’ll have them both handy in the future. 

Thank God for the privilege of participating in the rescue of other lost souls through the sharing of the Gospel.