The ABC's of Interpretation

[EricH]

Given the recent discussions regarding the future of Israel and the meaning of OT prophecies, I thought it would be helpful to list some basics of determining meaning. I obtained these from:

"The Navigator Bible Studies Handbook"

General Principles

1. As you study, work knowing that the Bible is authoritative

2. Let the Bible interpret itself (Scripture explains Scripture).

3. The Holy Spirit

[tah]

8. Do not be presumptuous in claiming Biblical promises

You mean it ain't true that ...

"Every promise in the Book is mine..

every chapter every verse every line..."

[apothanein kerdos]

8. Do not be presumptuous in claiming Biblical promises

You mean it ain't true that ...

"Every promise in the Book is mine..

every chapter every verse every line..."

Unless you want to have a child named Isaac when you're over 100 years old.

[tah]

OK, Ya got me on that one...

No Way!!!!!!!!!!

[Marnie]

"A text without a context is just a pretext."

[lily00]

"A text without a context is just a pretext."

I am a little confused over that.

[Marnie]

If you take a text (a verse or chapter) and wrench it out of its context, you will not a have complete or correct understanding of it, so your conclusions will be a sham, a pretext.

[st. Worm]

And something they did not mention. I remember a quote saying that "theology is not a parlor game, but analogous to rock climbing--certain cliffs and routes are too difficult for the inexperienced, whose ill-advised traverse often leads to tragedy."

Amen. All interpretations are not equal. While the great teachers of the Bible in the history of the church are neither inerrant nor infallable, their wisdom and abilities are of great value to all and we dismiss them to our folly. Discarding history for the latest fads has become too prevalent this day.

sw

[Guest Summer Sun]

Hello! I'm new on here. But as for interpretation - well, Jesus only ever used scripture in context - it was only the devil who used it out context (I ws thinking of the temptations).

I always wish there was more 'good eduction' of scripture (for want of a better phrase) which can help people understand better, and also to be encouraged in their faith - after all we serve a faithful God whose word is true!

[st. Worm]

Hello! I'm new on here. But as for interpretation - well, Jesus only ever used scripture in context - it was only the devil who used it out context (I ws thinking of the temptations).

I always wish there was more 'good eduction' of scripture (for want of a better phrase) which can help people understand better, and also to be encouraged in their faith - after all we serve a faithful God whose word is true!

Summer Sun, there is a great little book by RC Sproul entitled Knowing Scripture that really lays out the good basics of interpretation. I am sure its still available through most Christian stores.

sw