Hermeneutics - How to Interpret Scripture: Part 2

 

Bible content intended for the church

 

Bible interpretation can be challenging. For example, the Old Testament law and the gospels contain difficult commands for us to obey today, such as animal sacrifices and following the rules of the Pharisees (Matthew 23:3)! Obviously, in our Christian-based society we do not practice these things nor does the church command them.

 

Consequently, on what basis of interpretation can we ignore some commands and follow others? This is a vital question to answer to avoid confusion, believing lies about God and guilt!

 

Importantly, the Old Testament and the gospels must be interpreted carefully within the cultural and historical context in which God intended to communicate to His people and administrative them. Please read my last blog below to find clues on how to do this.

 

Today let's look at the portion of scripture intended towards the church specifically, the apostolic epistles in the New Testament, from Romans to Revelation 3. These letters explain what Christ wants us to do as church-based Christians following his glorious resurrection and ascension. 

 

·      The apostle Paul specifically was chosen to explain to the church the meaning of Christ’s coming (Colossians 1:25; Ephesians 3:1-6). In several instances, commands from the Old Testament law, such as nine of the Ten Commandments, and ‘love one another’ from the Gospels, are repeated in the epistles. However, it is from the Epistles that we derive our instructions as Christians in this time when God manages people through the church.

 

·      Proper technique in understanding the Bible is vital. Misinterpreting scripture based on an improper view of scriptural interpretation will cause us to believe lies about God which can have a negative psychological or physical impact on us and others. In the extreme, it can cause disunity in the church, formation of Christian cults, leading others astray, and causing wasted livesand resourcesin service to God. 

 

·      Basic interpretation rules for the Christian in the church (please also see my last blog).

 

• Guidance for the Christian is in the New Testament epistles. 
• Do not believe information about God, Christ or the Spirit that is not in scripture.
• As bad as it is to not believe Bible, it is also dangerous to add to the scripture (Revelation 22:18-19). Both removing and adding to scripture teaches lies about the character, actions, desires, and requirements of our holy God. Unfortunately, adding to scripture is quite common, often from well-intentioned teachers and leaders. Adding to scripture is most commonly done by:

Ø  Using philosophic arguments that are not in the Bible to assign their own beliefs to God.

Ø  Over-interpreting a verse according to one’s prejudice.

Ø  Interpreting a verse in isolation and not understanding the historical, cultural, or textual context.

Ø  Poor hermeneutics (basis of interpretation, please see my prior blog).

o  Scripture is progressive in revealing more information about God and His great plan of salvation as you proceed reading through the Bible; and should be interpreted in a normal, literal fashion. Otherwise, interpret is as it would have been understood at the time of writing and by the type of literature it represents (e.g. historical narrative, poetry, etc.)

 

·      For scriptural study techniques, see the Teleios guide on Bible study methods.

 

Make a strong habit, as people tell you what to believe about God, to check the veracity in scripture itself (yes, even the Teleios website) especially if it will strongly affect your or others’ lives and beliefs. You may need to ask the person who first made the statement where it is supported in the Bible. By this method, over time, you will learn what is actually in scripture and what God really desires from Christians. Knowing what is in scripture, and what is not, is quite freeing and helpful to your life.
 
Please join us next time which we discussed the plan of God in scripture. What a great and encouraging topic! I look forward to seeing you then.
 
Join us again next time and share this important blog with your friends and family!
 
William C. Stewart, MD
 
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Disclaimer - This blog and its content are provided only as information. No content on the website should be taken as advice or recommendation to any personal or institutional situation. The views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily either shared or endorsed by Teleios. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.