The Pathway · Chapter 6 of 16
REAL Questions
A pattern for reading Scripture
The REAL pattern leads the reader from WHO God is, to WHAT He is doing. The Bible is primarily about God, and we need to see each verse as such.
Often, when we read or teach the Bible, we rush through the part about God to ask questions about man. But God gave us the Bible to tell us about Him, that we might learn to live under His rule. By anchoring ourselves in Who God is and What He is doing before ever asking “What about me?”, our posture shifts from consumerism to worship. Application becomes not just behavior modification, but a genuine response to a Holy God.
Who is God in this passage?
Look for what the passage shows about God's character. Is He loving? Just? Patient? Powerful? This keeps your focus on Him first.
What is God doing in this passage?
Notice His actions. Is He teaching, correcting, forgiving, leading, or rescuing? Faith grows when we see God at work.
How is man described in this passage?
What does this show about people? Are they weak, fearful, faithful, sinful, obedient? This helps us see ourselves honestly.
What can you do to apply this passage to your life?
This is where it becomes personal. What step can you take today because of what you read?
REAL in action: Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
He is the Sovereign Director, the All-Knowing Planner, and the ultimate Provider of hope. He isn't caught off guard by difficult circumstances (in context, Israel was in Babylonian exile). His character is faithful, protective, and deeply intentional.
When we skip the R and the E, our application (L) becomes shallow and fragile. But when application is rooted in the unchanging nature and activity of God, it changes how we live, think, and follow Christ.
These questions were adapted from Saturate the World.
Take it to heart
Check your understanding