Lesson 10 | Trace Themes
Markup Lens: Theology
By now you are quite familiar with the Markup module, but it will help to see how the Theology lens can facilitate a theological reading of Scripture. It is designed to keep things simple with one markup style.
1. Highlight the key words or phrases that point to a theological theme
- Here, we answer the first question: What theological themes come to the surface in this passage?
- Each theme should have its own color.
- A single chapter may have many, many theological themes, but you should focus on the five most important doctrines present.
2. Add a succinct label for each color
- Use a key word that clearly identifies the theological theme.
3. Add dot notes to record observations, questions, and other notes
- As always, be as descriptive as possible with your observations; sharpen your insights with probing questions.
- For each highlighted theme, you should aim to fully address the second and fourth questions from the study skills step:
- How does this passage develop or contribute to the theme?
- How does this theme relate to the author’s central concern? (Refer to the Topics lens to see the author’s main topic)
- While you have limited your markup to a key word or phrase, extend your notes to include everything you can see concerning each theological theme.
4. Take time to consider unique theological statements
- We now address the third question: Does this passage uniquely shed light on a theological theme?
- Add a markup and related dot note.