Bible Study

Let's consider mainstream denominations first: traditional Christians, like Catholics, Orthodox, or Protestants.

They often approach Bible study with a specific perspective. For example, it’s about continuity with historical teachings. They might be rooted in established frameworks like lectio divina in Catholicism, a meditative four-step process: reading, meditation, prayer, and contemplation.

They are accustomed to slow, deliberate consideration of scripture based on church tradition(s).

Many Protestants might prioritize expository study or verse-by-verse analysis, often guided by a pastor or commentary from leading figures in the congregation.

The intention of these studies is to gain clarity around church doctrines when applying moral principles to gain understanding.

They’ll use tools like concordances or study Bible verses, gathering in formal or informal settings. These can include church groups or even Sunday school. The key to this process is that a leader interprets the situation. Church tradition and Bible literalism anchor many of these sessions; the Bible is read using creeds or catechisms, in order to ensure alignment with orthodoxy.

Spiritual Christians, tend to break from the mold of using church traditions and doctrines, along with using a more collaborative approach to study.

This group might include non-denominational folks, charismatics, or those who would say “I’m spiritual, not religious.”

Their Bible study is less based on a systematic and more tethered to individual or collective experience(s).

These types of Christians are more interested in a direct, personal encounter with God.

For example, using a freestyle approach: reading passages that “speak to them” at the moment, often guided by intuition or what can be called the Holy Spirit’s nudge.

No standard commentary here. No consistent interpreter is required.

The tools are a Bible, maybe a journal, and perhaps a playlist of worship tunes.

The meetings vary from a home, coffee shop, or park instead of a pew or sermon room.

Discussions can be formal or informal lectures, but no sermons. Included may be inspired reading—where they seek fresh, spontaneous insight—or soaking up a verse through prayer that stands out. It’s less “What did Augustine say?” and more “What’s God saying to me now?”

Traditionalists might pull out a hefty Strong’s Concordance or a leather-bound Bible with cross-references; spiritual Christians are more likely to swipe through a Bible app like YouVersion, selecting verses with an “appropriate” vibe.

Traditional study often happens in scheduled, hierarchical groups—think a priest or elder leading. Spiritual Christians? It’s egalitarian, organic—anyone can chime in, and the vibe is more collaborative than authoritative.

Traditional Christians often consider Bible study as a duty and discipline—a way to know God through His revealed word, as filtered by centuries of theology by the church. It’s heavy on intellectuals to the point where it becomes fear-mongering. There is a right way and a wrong way for believers.

Spiritual Christians are more likely to treat their Bible study like a lifeline to divine connection. They’re less about mapping theology and instilling correct behaviors, and more tuned into feeling God’s presence or hearing his voice which includes an inner understanding or resonance attuned to confidence, courage, and embracing the journey forward.