The importance of Bible interpretation

I love this verse in the book of Nehemiah:

So they read distinctly from the book, in the Law of God; and they gave the sense, and helped them to understand the reading. (Neh. 8:8)

The Hebrew word sekel, which is translated “sense” could also be rendered insight, understanding or meaning.

Why was it necessary to give the sense or meaning to the people? The Aramaic language replaced Hebrew after the captivity. Therefore, it was necessary to explain many words of the Hebrew Scriptures.

The importance of sound principles for Bible interpretation cannot be overstated. Most doctrinal error can be traced back to erroneous methods of Bible interpretation.

Our Biblical Resources and Theology group is currently working on a paper for Ethnos360. The paper stresses the importance of following sound principles of interpretation. We begin the paper with this introduction:

Paul told Timothy, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth (2 Tim. 2:15).” It is critical that we handle God’s Word accurately. That begins with how we interpret the Bible. If we get that wrong, we are in danger of going off track.

As students of God’s Word, we need some principles and guidelines that will help us obtain objectivity in our interpretation of Scripture.

We will be presenting that paper to our organizational leadership team for approval. Once approved, the paper will be made available to all our members. We would appreciate your prayers regarding that approval process and any revisions that might need to be made to the paper.

Blessings,

Bob

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Literal Interpretation

“About the time of the End, a body of men will be raised up who will turn their attention to the prophecies, and insist upon their literal interpretation in the midst of much clamor and opposition.” —Sir Isaac Newton