Pass It On A Rule For Good Bible Interpretation
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Society -> subcategory Religion.
Pass It On: A Guide to Effective Bible Interpretation
How to Find Trustworthy Bible Interpretation
With numerous Bible translations and countless voices interpreting them, how can we discern which interpretations to trust? Surprisingly, it’s simpler than you might think.
Keywords
Bible, interpretations, Luther, Calvin, Tyndale, Pentecostal, Baptist, Methodist, church
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Unlocking the Scriptures
During the Dark Ages, scriptures were literally chained in major cathedrals, inaccessible to the common people. Even clergy were confined to reading them only in specific locations. Courageous reformers like Luther, Calvin, and Tyndale worked tirelessly, sometimes sacrificing their lives, to make the Bible accessible to all. Today, we benefit from their efforts, with Bible versions readily available, even in designer editions.
Yet, despite this accessibility, many still use the excuse that the Bible is “open to interpretation” and therefore cannot be trusted. This notion, born out of ignorance and indifference, is misleading and dangerously impacts one's future.
Understanding Bible Interpretation
The primary rule of interpretation insists that no one has the right to interpret scripture in a purely personal or private manner. According to I Peter 1:20, “no prophecy of scripture is of any private interpretation.” This suggests that the Bible should be interpreted publicly, within the context of the broader church community. Across denominations such as Pentecostal, Evangelical, Baptist, and Methodist, foundational interpretations remain consistent: Jesus’ death and resurrection are key to salvation, and His teachings guide our actions. Deviations from this interpretation verge on heresy or cultism.
Self-Interpretation of the Bible
A critical practice is allowing the Bible to interpret itself. Examine scripture as a whole, which necessitates studying the entire Bible. This comprehensive approach effectively addresses potential interpretation issues.
A wise preacher once shared a memorable rule: "If the scripture makes plain sense, seek no other sense." Understanding the Bible doesn’t require complexity. Focus on clear meanings rather than hidden messages.
Adopt a Child-like Perspective
Consider the simplicity of a child's interpretation. Ask a child about Jesus’ teachings on love or forgiveness, and they’ll grasp the essence?"something that sometimes eludes those claiming the Bible is too complex. Simpler passages may still be profound, while more complex ones often become clear with a straightforward approach. Embracing a childlike perspective is not only the shortest route to understanding scripture, but also to salvation. As Jesus taught in Mark 10:15, “Whoever does not receive the Kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
Embrace the Bible’s Intentions
Don’t view the Bible as an inscrutable manual of religion. Think of it as a loving letter from God to His children. Such a letter wouldn’t aim to confuse but to express love, intentions, plans, and guidance. Imagine disregarding a letter from your father, choosing instead to act without understanding until he returns. The Bible is meant to illuminate and bring peace, not confusion. Ignoring it results in misunderstanding, not the text itself.
Jesus assured us that His words?"“they are spirit, and they are life” (John 6:33)?"are meant to enlighten and revitalize us. By moving beyond the cliché of “open to interpretation,” we find clarity and purpose enriched by the peace of His teachings.
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