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There are three helpful principles that can guide us as we seek to correctly interpret the Bible. But we will never fully understand the Bible unless we understand its central theme.
For many people, the biggest problem they have with the Bible is not so much with Scripture itself, but with the way in which it is interpreted. We all know how people can pick and choose the parts they are willing to accept. And sadly, we have all seen how people can misuse the Bible to pursue their own interests and take advantage of others. So is there a right way to interpret the Bible?
Some would say, you have to read the Bible “literally,” but taking it “literally” can be misleading. It is better to speak of the “natural sense” or the “plain sense” of Scripture. Why? Because sometimes the natural sense is figurative. For example, in a well-known story in John 3, Nicodemus misunderstands Jesus’ teaching because he is overly literal. He thinks he must enter his mother’s womb a second time in order to experience the new birth Jesus describes.
If the natural sense is best, then what principles should guide us as we interpret the Bible? Let me offer three.
So if you want to read the Bible rightly, you have to interpret it in light of its literary context, its historical context, and its Biblical context. But you will never understand the Bible unless you know its central theme—to reveal Jesus and his mission to the world.
Some verses point directly to Jesus, others are more remote, but eventually they all lead to Jesus. Old English commentators liked to use this analogy. Just as every little lane and road in England, not in isolation, but linking up together, will eventually lead you to London, so every verse and chapter, not in isolation, but linking up together, will eventually lead you to Jesus. So how should you interpret the Bible? The same way Jesus did. It’s not a book of moral instruction. It’s a book of Christ. So when you read the Bible, look for Jesus. And keep looking until you find him.
Written by Jason Harris
Produced by Mary-Catherine McKee
Filmed and edited by Andrew Walker