How to R.E.A.P. the Bible
August 12, 2018 • Chris Reighley
“This Book will keep you from sin—or sin will keep you from this Book.”
— Anonymous (often attributed to D.L. Moody)
Let’s be honest—reading the Bible can be hard. We’ve all faced dry seasons where Scripture seems silent, or times when we don’t know what to do with what we’ve read. The R.E.A.P. Method offers a simple but powerful tool to help you read the Bible with intentionality and insight. Whether you’re studying alone or in a small group, R.E.A.P. helps you engage the Word not just with your eyes, but with your heart and life.
R.E.A.P. stands for:
Read, Examine, Apply, and Pray—a four-step framework designed to help you slow down, reflect deeply, and respond faithfully to God’s Word. As you practice this method, our prayer is that you will grow in the knowledge of God, experience a more intimate trust in the Gospel, and walk in joyful obedience to His commands.
As Paul reminds Timothy,
“All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be equipped, having been thoroughly equipped for every good work.” — 2 Timothy 3:16–17 (LSB)
The R.E.A.P. Study Method
1. READ
Open your Bible and invite the Holy Spirit to teach, convict, and transform you. Ask questions like:
- What is happening in this passage?
- What is emphasized, repeated, or connected?
- What do I learn about God?
- What do I learn about human nature?
2. EXAMINE
Dig deeper and reflect intentionally. Ask:
- How might the original audience have responded?
- What does this reveal about God’s character?
- What misconceptions or false beliefs do I need to confront?
3. APPLY
Let Scripture shape your life. Ask:
- What do I need to repent of or believe more fully?
- What would obedience look like today, through the Spirit’s power?
4. PRAY
Turn your reading into prayer. Ask God to change your heart and empower you to live differently in light of what you’ve studied.
And don’t keep it to yourself—share what God is teaching you with someone else. The Word is meant to be multiplied.
This session was originally taught by Chris Reighley as part of the Sunday Night Bible Study at Rolling Hills Community Church in Lago Vista, Texas. It continues to equip everyday believers to open God’s Word with confidence and joy.