Studying the bible is a central activity in the process of sanctification. It is the method by which God most often and most clearly speaks to the individual, and it is one of the activities we have most control over in terms of intensity and quality. Especially in our modern, technologically advanced society, we have more access to the ancient texts that make up the bible than ever before.

During this time of discernment, I will be focusing my study time on writing a comprehensive commentary of the 66 books of the bible. The focus will be on discovering what the bible says, what controversial issues have yet to be settled, and, more specifically, what the bible itself says about monasticism.

There is one major tool used in my study efforts: The Word Bible Software. It is created by a Christian in Greece, and I can attest, from my own personal experience, it can really transform how one approaches study. It allows direct, lightning speed access to original languages, lexicon, dictionary, encyclopedia, and commentary support, as well as very useful search capabilities. It is extremely flexible in its display, allowing incredible customization. There simply is nothing like it on the market – highly user friendly, and I don’t think I mentioned – it’s entirely FREE !!

One limitation for most bible software programs is the lack of modules, or a proprietary system requiring purchase of modules. With the Word Bible Software, I have all the modules I require (and many, many more) either all for free or for a fraction of the cost of other platforms. With this software + the modules listed below, I am able to do complete readings of the text in various translations, plumb the depths of the original Greek and Hebrew languages, confer with trusted commentators and then produce my own commentary that is centrally linked to each verse in the bible.

Here are the major modules I use during my studies:

• Bibles: NKJV, NIV, LITV, WEB.
• Interlinears: Apostolic Bible Polyglot, Greek LXX & Byzantine Greek NT Interlinear, Hebrew OT Interlinear.
• X-References: Treasury of Scripture Knowledge Expanded
• Commentaries: Chuck Missler Commentaries, Cambridge Bible Commentaries, JFB, Pulpit, Poole, etc.
• Encyclopedias/Lexicons: ISBE, Strong’s Encyclopedia, Mickelson’s Enhanced.
• Books: Church Fathers (Anti, Nicene, Post), etc.

I will post notes from time to time here on my discoveries and opinions formed from my studies.