Reading for engagement requires question-generated exploration.
Factual questions help us remember the story:
- Who is involved in story?
- What is the plot of the story?
- When and where have the events taken place?
- Where have we seen similar events, stories, characteristics, etc.?
- How do the characters differ, interact, etc.?
- Note passage of time, movement from place to place, etc.
- Is there an illustration or visual aid used?
Inferential questions help us build doctrines (These are the most difficult questions to answer and should be asked frequently throughout the story. Asking questions leads to self-discovery):
- What does this story tell you about God and His ways? (This is the most important question readers must ask as they read or hear the Bible.)
- What does this story tell you about men, women, relationships (or other elements found within a particular story)?
- What does this story teach about character (scheming, faith, obedience, waiting, etc.)?
- What does this story teach about sin (pride, disobedience, etc.) and about righteousness?
Connection and Review questions assist the learner to retain and build the storyline:
- Where else have we seen this truth? Principle? Person? Place?
- In which other story/stories have we seen God . . .? man . . .? . . . women?
- Link previous memory verses to other stories.
Application questions appropriate what we’ve learned:
- How is God speaking to you through this story?
- How will you integrate this truth into your life?
- Do you see yourself in . . .?
- What questions does this story raise about . . .?