In other words, find out what God is stressing or emphasizing in the context.

What is God's major thought or primary idea?

As you read over the passage of Scripture, be asking yourself, "What is the main point that God is emphasizing in this context?"

1. What is the value of determining the main point of a passage?

a. The main point (or main principle) will formulate the proposition for your message.

b. The main point will help in determining the title you decide to give your sermon (more will be said about he "proposition" and "title" in the notes to follow).

2. How do I determine what God's main point is?

a. Look for repeated words (obvious examples: Love - I Cor. 13; faith - Heb. 11).

b. Look for a repeated idea (concept) (EX: I Th. 5:16-18 - be consistent in your inner life with God; Rom. 12:1-2 - full surrender)

c. Look for a key phrase or sentence which the writer expands on or explains (a knowledge of grammar will help here).

(Ex: I Th. 4:3-8 - Paul says, "For this is the will of God, even your sanctification" in verse 3a; Paul then explains what he means by sanctification in verses 3b and following).