Narrative
Watch setting, plot, conflict, dialogue, repeated actions, narrator comments, and turning points.
Write: what changes from start to finish?
Genre guide
Interpret each passage according to its genre
Genre tells you what to notice and what mistake to avoid. Use these mini-guides while observing and interpreting.
Poetry and Psalms
Notice parallelism, imagery, emotion, repetition, contrast, and movement from complaint to trust or praise.
Write: what images carry the meaning?
Epistle
Trace argument flow, doctrine, commands, reasons, therefore statements, imperatives and indicatives.
Write: what truth grounds the command?
Prophecy
Check covenant setting, accusation, warning, promise, near/far horizon, imagery, and hope.
Write: what covenant issue is addressed?
Parable
Notice occasion, audience, question, reversal, main point, and response demanded.
Write: what is the main point, not every possible symbol?
Apocalyptic
Use interpreted symbols, Old Testament background, repeated patterns, and pastoral purpose.
Write: which symbols are explained by the text?
Wisdom
Look for general wisdom, contrast, consequences, fear of the Lord, and poetic compression.
Write: is this a general principle or an absolute promise?
Law
Observe covenant audience, command form, holiness concern, penalty, priestly/civil/moral setting, and fulfilment trajectory.
Write: what did this require then, and what principle carries forward?
Gospel
Track scene, dialogue, fulfilment, kingdom emphasis, conflict, discipleship, and response to Jesus.
Write: what does this reveal about Jesus and discipleship?
Deeper genre skills