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.