An exegesis is an essay about a passage in the Bible.A good exegesis uses logic, critical thinking, and secondary sources to show a deeper understanding of the passage.You may be required to write an exegesis in order to broaden your understanding of the Bible.Make an outline for the essay and take notes on the passage.You can use your interpretations and research to write the exegesis.The exegesis is at its best if you revise it after you finish it.
Step 1: The bible passage should be read 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 aloud 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 should be notice.You can circle words like "sow," "ROOT," and "Soil" in the passage because you think they are important."Whoever has ears, let them hear," is the standard refrain for a parable in the Bible.
Step 3: You can read secondary literature about it.
Secondary sources for the exegesis include theological articles and commentaries.A biblical dictionary can be used as a source.Look for sources in a theological library or online theological journals.You can look for articles, essays, and commentaries that discuss the literary genre of the passage as well as any themes or ideas that you notice.
Step 4: An outline is needed for the essay.
An outline for the essay that is broken into five sections is required 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: The passage and its context should be introduced.
Provide the full passage you are studying.The context of the passage should be included.Where is it in the Bible?The literary genre includes whether the passage is a hymn or a parable.
Step 6: The thesis statement should be included.
The guide for the exegesis will come from your thesis statement.It should tell you everything you need to know in a single 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: Comments on the passage should be made by verse.
A good way to read the passage is to focus on the language.The language and sentence structure can be discussed.The literary genre of the passage affects the meaning of it.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: Look at the passage as a whole.
Think about the themes in the passage.Take a look at 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, by asking yourself, "How can I apply this passage to my life?"Explain how the passage has been interpreted by other people.
Step 9: Quote from your sources.
Direct quotes from your research can be used to strengthen your argument.Make your paper stronger by relying on reliable sources.The sources should be given proper citations in the paper.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 should be included in the end of the essay.
You can conclude the paper by changing your thesis statement.You can include closing remarks about the passage.As a whole, look at the passage.There should be no new ideas in the conclusion of the essay.Link your ideas together from what you have written in the essay.
Step 11: A bibliography is a list of sources.
All of the sources you used in the essay should be included in your exegesis.The author's name and title should be used.The publication date should be included as well.Your instructor should tell you which citation style they want you to use.
Step 12: Review the exegesis for spelling.
The essay should be read aloud to make sure there are no errors.It's important that all punctuation is used correctly.You need to make sure you have no spelling or grammar mistakes.The essay will look 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: For feedback, show the exegesis to others.
Before handing it in, ask your friends, peers and teachers to read over your exegesis.Pose questions to see if they think your exegesis is easy to follow.You should be open to constructive criticism of your essay.
Step 14: Correct 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 details of the passage should be covered in detail.To make sure the essay is not too long, you should revise it.If there is a word count for the exegesis, make sure you don't go over it.