Be certain that you fully understand your professor’s instructions for your paper (often an exegesis of a text), since there is room in the process for individual variations. Needless to say, always follow your instructor's requirements and advice!
The typical steps involved in doing exegetical work can include the following:
Although your professor may have specific instructions that
differ from what this guide presents, here are the basic steps common to
most exegesis papers. You may go step-by-step, or jump to the topic of interest
to you.
1. Choose a Passage
2. Examine the Historical, Cultural, and Literary Background
3. Perform Exegesis of Each Verse
4. Offer an Overall Interpretation
5. Provide an Application of the Passage
There is an additional thing you need to consider:
* Document Your Sources Correctly (See Citing Materials tab above).
First, Choose a Passage.
The Bible Gateway is a tool for reading and researching scripture online -- all in the language or translation of your choice!
Electronic New Testament Educational Resources -- Another great resource for, among many other things, explaining what exegesis is.
Maintained by Biblica. Biblica is the new name for IBS-STL Global.
IBS-STL launched a new identity, including a new name—Biblica—to reflect its expanding vision and focus for transforming lives through God's Word. The new name is part of a rebranding process that began with the merger of International Bible Society and Send the Light in 2007.
The New Testament Gateway is a comprehensive directory of academic internet resources related to the New Testament. The New Testament Gateway focuses on resources that will be of interest to both scholars and students of the New Testament.
All-in-One: Bible Versions and Translations
This guide was adapted from a Research Guide at University of St.Thomas by Curt Lemay, Director and Theological Librarian, Archbishop Ireland Memorial Library. Mr. LeMay had adapted it from an Azuza Pacific University research guide. Azuza's guide was created by Dr. Kenneth D. Litwak, Reference Instructor, University Libraries, October, 2008, and posted by Michelle Spomer of Azuza Pacific.