How to Interpret the Bible D Fevig, August 10, 2021April 13, 2024 Here are some of the guidelines I use in interpreting the Scriptures. 1. We must discern and differentiate the various writing styles found in the scriptures. There is poetry, straightforward prose, hyperbole (exaggeration), idioms, symbolism (as found in apocalyptic literature such as Revelation), and more. For example, look at Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:30, “if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off”. We would all be handless if we interpreted that literally. Jesus meant to illustrate the seriousness of sin and that we need to take drastic measures to deal with it in our lives. 2. Clear statements in prose have more interpretive weight than poetry, parables, or apocalyptic literature. I think this principle is overlooked by some interpreters who confess that “every word of the Bible is true” without evaluating the kind of writing it is. Even within clear prose statements, we have to consider hyperbole and figures of speech as mentioned above in point 1. 3. We must harmonize the entire scriptures together. The message of the Bible is consistent if we take every verse, chapter, and book in proper context. 4. Interpret the Old Testament in light of the New Testament. Jesus said “don’t think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets (Old Testament). I did not come to abolish but to fulfill” (Matt 5:17). In other places he talks about the entire Old Testament being about him. God put many types and shadows of Jesus throughout the Old Testament. We need to interpret everything there in light of what Jesus taught, and through the Holy Spirit who inspired the rest of the New Testament. Theology
Theology God, Time, and Eternity January 7, 2022April 9, 2024 Happy New Year! Another year has gone by very quickly. Mathematically, one year is 1.4% of a 70 year-old’s life. For a 10 year old, one year is 10%, so no wonder time seems to fly faster for seniors like me! God is Eternal Our God is eternal, outside of… Read More
Theology Meeting Together: From Homes to Mega-Churches September 28, 2021April 9, 2024 The author of Hebrews tells us in 10:24-25, And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching…. Read More
Theology The Mystery of the Trinity January 31, 2022April 9, 2024 The Trinity is probably the ultimate mystery in the Bible. Our God who is one God, but three persons. Many have suggested analogies like water, steam, ice, and others. But none of them can express the nature of the Trinity adequately. This concept has been a stumbling block for many… Read More