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One of the best ways to interpret Scripture is by using Scripture, or in other words, using cross-references. In the Bible there are around 340,000 cross-references (OpenBible.info) that can help you explore the unity and common themes between the Old and New Testaments. On top of biblical cross-referencing, WORDsearch can help you explore your entire library to find mentions of the verse you are looking for to help you build out a sermon or lesson.
Depending on the size of your library, your WORDsearch books can contain thousands of references to Bible verses. If you want to study a specific verse of Scripture, it can seem overwhelming to even know where to begin.
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Understanding cross-references is important for the preacher and teacher. Cross-references often add life, meaning and depth to a passage of Scripture.
Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times should I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” – Matt 18:21-22 NIV
The common footnote in this verse explains “seventy-seven times” as “seventy times seven.” Most of us realize that seventy times seven (490) is much larger than seventy-seven (77). However, are we missing the point of what Jesus was saying?
I have been asked to write about how I use WORDsearch in my message preparations and
studies. Let me say up front that I use WORDsearch almost every single day because I study every
day. There are two main features that help me immensely.
1. The “Topics” button.
A. Subject Research
This tool enables me to do in-depth studies on any particular subject I want to research. For
example, I am preaching through the book of Job right now and wanted to find material on “Trials.”
By finding verses and information about “trials,” I can then form an outline on this particular subject
or incorporate the principles into my message.