An exegesis focuses on a passage in the bible.A good exegesis will use logic, critical thinking, and secondary sources.You may be required to write an exegesis in order to broaden your understanding of the bible.Make an outline and take notes on the passage.Use your interpretations and research to write the exegesis.It's best to revise the exegesis after you're done.
Step 1: Take the bible passage and read it aloud.
Listen to what is said in the passage.Pay attention to the words.Take your time and read it to yourself.You might want to read the passage from a number of different translations to get a better sense of it.It doesn't hurt to look at other translations if you choose only one for the exegesis.
Step 2: Take notes on the passage
Write down any words you don't understand in the passage.Think about their meaning in the context of the passage.The language of the passage should be considered.The structure of the sentences, tenses and phrases can be observed.You can circle words like "sow," "ROOT," and "Soil" in the passage because you think they are important."Who has ears, let them hear" is the standard refrain for a parable in the Bible.
Step 3: You can read secondary literature about the passage.
Secondary sources for the exegesis include theological articles and commentaries in journals or books.A biblical dictionary can be used as a source.To find sources about the passage, use a theological library or online theological journals.You can find articles, essays, and commentaries that discuss the literary genre of the passage as well as any themes or ideas that you notice in it.
Step 4: An outline is needed for the essay.
An outline for the essay that is broken into five sections is needed before you start writing.You should have an introduction, a body, and a conclusion for the essay.Section 1: introduction section 2 commentary section 3 interpretation section 4 conclusion section
Step 5: Explain the passage and its context.
Provide the full passage you are studying.The translation of the passage should be included.Where is it in the Bible?It is possible to mention the literary genre, such as whether the passage is a hymn or a parable.
Step 6: Provide a thesis statement.
The guide for the exegesis will be your thesis statement.It should tell you everything you need to know in one sentence.The introduction section has a thesis statement at the end.You might have a thesis statement like, "In this Bible passage, one learns about the value of a good foundation for inner and outer growth."
Step 7: Comment on the passage in verse by verse.
A close reading of the passage will focus on the language.The language and sentence structure can be discussed in the passage.The literary genre affects the meaning of the passage.If you were writing about Matthew 13:1-8, you could discuss the language and sentence structure of the parable.The passage uses nature as a metaphor for personal growth.
Step 8: The passage should be understood as a whole.
Think about the themes and ideas in the passage.Think about how the passage reflects the teachings of the Bible.Discuss the significance of the passage.Discuss the broader context of the passage, including its historical or social significance, when you ask yourself, "How can I apply this passage to my life?"Understand how the passage has been interpreted by other people.
Step 9: Integrate quotes from sources.
Direct quotes from your research can be used to strengthen your argument.Make your paper stronger by relying on reliable sources.The sources in the paper should be given proper citations.Ask the instructor which citation style they prefer and use it in your essay if you are writing the exegesis for a class.
Step 10: Final statements are needed to wrap up the essay.
Conclude the paper by changing your thesis statement.You can include closing remarks about the passage.As a whole, reflect on the passage.There should be no new ideas in the conclusion of the essay.Link your ideas with what you have written in the essay.
Step 11: A bibliography is a collection of information.
All the sources you used in the essay should be included in your exegesis.The author's full name and title should be used.The publication date should be included as well.Your instructor should tell you which style of citation they want you to use.
Step 12: Look at the exegesis for spelling, grammar and punctuation.
The essay should be read aloud to make sure there are no errors.It's important to make sure all punctuation is used correctly.Check that you don't make any spelling or grammar mistakes.The essay will appear sloppy and unpolished if there are these types of errors.If you try to read the essay backwards, you'll have to focus on each word to make sure it's spelled correctly.
Step 13: Show the exegesis to people.
Before handing it in, ask your friends, peers, and teachers to read over your exegesis.Do you think your exegesis is easy to follow?You should be open to constructive criticism of your essay.
Step 14: Remove the exegesis for clarity and length.
Review the essay after you have received feedback.Look at your sentences to make sure they are easy to follow.The specifics and general aspects of the passage should be covered in detail.To make sure the essay is not too long, you should revise it.Make sure you don't go over the word count for the exegesis.