Many opinions exist about what a scripture passage should mean or is saying.

I have been an avid believer in reading for one-self and that is especially true for the Bible.

Observation answers the question, "What does the passage say?"

Interpretation, the second component, answers the question, "What does the passage mean?"

The third component is application, which asks the question, "How does the meaning of this passage apply to me?"

When you understand the passage, you have a responsibility for practicing it, and you become accountable if you do not. Then, the goal of personal bible-study is a changed life and a relationship with Jesus.