Verse Mapping.  It’s the latest fad in Christian Bible study.  I personally love it.  This new method of exegetical (verse by verse, in-depth) study of the Bible is a new way for many to explore the Bible.  The James Method was the first group to introduce me to this method.  When I heard a publisher was reaching out for reviewers for this Bible, I snatched up the opportunity to join.  The Bible did not disappoint.

Throughout the entire Bible, there are pages devoted to a more in-depth approach to the Bible.  When studying the Bible many either start with random popular verse memorization and the broader context of the Bible - the Gospel and books of the Bible.  This is the absolute perfect spot for a new Believer or someone new to Bible study.  Verse Mapping is for the more seasoned believer and someone who is going to the next level of their faith - after understanding the broad aspects of the Bible.  

Here’s how it goes: You are given a page and 5 steps are outlined on it.

1. The verse itself with key words highlighted.

2. The verse in several other translations than NIV for more comparisons (for those who are unaware - the Bible has many different translations, which can lead to confusion when understanding Scripture.  Reading multiple translations can help clear up confusion for what the Bible is trying to say.  This is because the Bible was not originally in English.)

3. Development of the key phrases in a verse, such as main words, short phrases or the key point of the verse.  Then, those words are given definition and original language is also included for those who want to expand their original Hebrew or Greek.

4. This step is all about action!  What is the point of the verse?  Who are the main characters?  Is there a protagonist or maybe an antagonist?  Think back to high school English for this step!

5. What is the outcome of the verse?  Does it apply to you today?  Can you make it applicable?  (Always remember - if you are reading the Bible - don’t always make everything about you, however, and remember to observe the culture, what it says about Jesus’ character, and the overall story of the Gospel).
   
   

Now that you have the framework of the Bible’s verse mapping schematic, I’d love to dissect a little further and give you a verse sample!

1. “Do not hate a fellow Israelite in your heart.  Rebuke your neighbor frankly so you will not share in their guilt.  Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself, I am the LORD.” -Lev. 19:17-18 (NIV)

2. Alternate Translation (NASB): “You shall not hate your fellow countryman in your heart: you may surely reprove your neighbor, but shall not incur sin because of him.  You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the sons of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself; I am the LORD.”

3. Definition of rebuke: In Hebrew: yakhakh; to reason together (in a legal case; to be vindicated; to rebuke, discipline, punish; decide, argue, defend, judge; to be chastened; to lodge a charge against.

4. This verse is directed at Israelites for being angry at other Israelites for sins they believe they are committing.  They are being challenged to rebuke the Israelites that are sinning, then forgive, love, and move on (whether or not there is repentance).

5. This can be applicable today.  How?  Apply it when dealing with your fellow Christians.  Is there someone you need to rebuke?  Is there someone you have rebuked that did not respond?  Confront that person in the first case and bear the grudge no more.  In the second case, you followed this verse - now you continue to show love and move forward knowing you made the right decision and did not bear a grudge in your heart.

I hope this is helpful and breaks down what verse mapping is!  It is currently one of my favorite things and I plan on continuing to utilize my Bible for this more exegetical study.  I even acquired a journal to pick out my own verses to dissect (I’m working on doing the whole book of Genesis - verse by verse).  As someone who grew up with parents who read their Bible college notes with her and went to a Christian college/graduate school, I found this was a great new, fun way to go even deeper.  This is definitely a cool Bible and process for the more seasoned Believer!

**Full disclosure: This Bible was received in exchange for an honest review**

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alycia Marie is a free-spirited wanderer and follower of Christ. She spends her days exploring around the city with the unique family that God has given her. At this time, she is currently working with non-profits and churches to tackle rebuilding families in the city of Milwaukee. In her free time, she plays with preschoolers, writes in coffee shops, and travels the world.