InstaStudy

Principles of Biblical Interpretation

A study on understanding and interpreting the Bible.

1. Foundational Principles

1.1 The Inspiration of Scripture

Verses: 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20-21
  • The Bible is divinely inspired, meaning God guided the authors.
  • 2 Timothy 3:16 states that all Scripture is God-breathed.
  • This inspiration extends to the very words used, not just the ideas.

1.2 The Authority of Scripture

Verses: Psalm 119:160; John 17:17
  • The Bible is the ultimate authority in matters of faith and practice.
  • It is without error in its original manuscripts.
  • All other sources of authority are subordinate to the Bible.

2. Methods of Interpretation

2.1 Understanding Context

Verses: Luke 1:1-4; Galatians 1:6-9
  • Consider the historical and cultural context of the passage.
  • Understand the author's purpose in writing.
  • Identify the original audience and their situation.

2.2 Literal Interpretation

Verses: Nehemiah 8:8; John 5:39
  • Determine the literal meaning of the words in their original language.
  • Pay attention to grammar and sentence structure.
  • Use reliable dictionaries and commentaries.

2.3 Literary Genres

Verses: Psalm 19:1-14; Revelation 1:1-3
  • Recognize different literary genres (e.g., poetry, prophecy, narrative).
  • Interpret each genre according to its own rules.
  • Avoid interpreting poetry as literal history.

3. Interpreting in Light of the Whole Bible

3.1 Scripture Interprets Scripture

Verses: 1 Corinthians 2:13; 2 Peter 3:15-16
  • Scripture interprets Scripture; use other passages to clarify meaning.
  • Look for similar themes, language, and contexts.
  • Avoid building doctrines on isolated verses.

3.2 Old and New Testaments

Verses: Matthew 5:17; Hebrews 10:1
  • The Old Testament is understood in light of the New Testament.
  • The New Testament fulfills and clarifies the Old Testament.
  • Jesus is the central figure of both testaments.

4. Key Doctrines

4.1 The Nature of God

Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Colossians 2:9
  • The Godhead is one indivisible Spirit manifested in various ways.
  • The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are not separate persons, but manifestations of the same God.
  • Jesus is the fullness of the Godhead bodily.

4.2 Water Baptism

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 10:48
  • Water baptism must be administered by immersion in the name of Jesus Christ.
  • This is the proper formula for baptism, as demonstrated in Acts.
  • Baptism is for the remission of sins.

4.3 Receiving the Holy Spirit

Verses: Acts 8:14-17; Acts 19:6
  • The Holy Spirit is received through the laying on of hands, evidenced by speaking in other tongues.
  • This is the initial sign of receiving the Holy Spirit.
  • The Holy Spirit empowers believers for service.