Summarize:

Start by providing the passage you are studying in full. Include the literal translation of the passage and the context of the passage. Specify where it appears in the Bible. You can also mention the literary genre, such as whether the passage is a hymn or a parable. Your thesis statement will act as a guide for the exegesis. It should sum up your key points or ideas in one sentence. Place the thesis statement at the end of the introduction section. For example, you may have a thesis statement like, “In this Bible passage, one learns about the value of a good foundation for inner and outer growth.” Do a close reading of the passage, focusing on the grammar and syntax. You can also discuss the language and sentence structure in the passage. Note the literary genre of the passage and how this affects the meaning of the passage. For example, if you were writing about Matthew 13:1-8, you may discuss the language and sentence structure of the parable. You may also talk about how the passage uses nature as a metaphor for personal growth. Think about the key themes and ideas in the passage. Consider how the passage reflects common teachings in the Bible. Discuss the theological significance of the passage. Ask yourself, “How can I apply this passage to my life?” “What does this passage say about my faith?” You can also discuss the broader context of the passage, including its historical or social significance. Provide context around how the passage has been interpreted by others, such as theological scholars and thinkers. Use direct quotes from your research in the paper to strengthen your argument. Lean on reputable sources to help make your paper stronger. Include all the proper citations for the sources in the paper. If you are writing the exegesis for a class, ask the instructor which citation style they prefer and use it in your essay. Conclude the paper by rephrasing your thesis statement. Include any closing remarks about the passage you'd like to include. Reflect on the passage as a whole. Do not add any new ideas in the conclusion of the essay. Instead, consider what you have written in the essay and link your ideas together. Your exegesis should have a properly formatted bibliography of all the sources you used in the essay. Use the full name of the author and the title of the article, journal, or book. Include the publication date as well. Your instructor should specify which type of citation style they want you to use for the bibliography.
Introduce the passage and its context. Include a thesis statement. Make verse by verse comments on the passage. Interpret the passage as a whole. Integrate quotes from your sources. Wrap up the essay with final statements. Create a bibliography of sources.