![]() The Bible was also originally written in cultural contexts that are different from what we are used to. Keep in mind that we are looking at biblical writings that are separated from our time by centuries – more than 1,950 years in the case of the New Testament and even longer in the case of the Old Testament. How to Study the Bible EffectivelyĪlso keep in mind the cultural context and genre of the passage being studied. In such cases, looking at many parallel passages to understand a topic better is more helpful than fixating on a more obscure or difficult passage, when the answer to the issue at hand can usually be resolved by turning to clearer passages. If a passage or teaching is important, there are often multiple instances throughout the Bible where the topic is discussed more clearly. More often than not, errors or difficulties of interpretation when studying the Bible come about as a result of not having a proper understanding of context.Īnother important aspect of Bible interpretation is not to base an elaborate theological teaching on the basis of an apparently obscure or isolated passage. Reading what comes before the passage being studied, what comes after and what the Bible says as a whole about the topic being studied, are all key concepts to keep in mind. Usually, however, it’s enough to have a basic understanding of the immediate context of what is being studied. This means that when studying the Bible one must keep in mind not only the immediate context of the portion under study, but also other forms of context such as the cultural context, the literary context and more. ![]() ![]() Technically known as hermeneutics, biblical interpretation offers some basic principles to help understand the Bible. Studying and Interpreting the BibleĪ key foundation of Bible study is interpretation. Other articles in this series will specifically look at certain types of Bible study such as personal or devotional study, family Bible study and in-depth Bible study. The Greek phrase translated “correctly handle” ( orthotomeo) also means to “guide on a straight path.” As we study the Bible, it’s important we do our best to stay on the straight path when it comes to interpreting and understanding it.īut how can we go about that? This article will introduce several approaches and methods helpful in general Bible study. In 2 Timothy 2:15, the Apostle Paul wrote, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth” (NIV). Anyone interested in studying the Bible will benefit from thinking about how to study it. The question, “How do I study the Bible?” is not just for new Christians.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |