The Golden Rules for Interpretations

1.      Interpret Literally

It has been said, “If plain sense makes common sense, seek no other sense.”

We use idioms, symbols, and poetic expressions every day – not to convey secret meanings but to add colour to our speech.

A person must keep in mind that when interpreting the Bible literally we make obvious allowances for figures of speech.

2.      Interpret Culturally/Historically 

For an intelligent understanding of some parts of the Bible we need to know something about the following:

-               Geography

-               Climate                     

-               Country                

-               Customs 

-               History                         

Someone once said “There can be no doubt that knowledge of Bible geography helps shed some light and realism to our understanding of the Book.”

 3.      Interpret Dispensationally 

 

Dispensationalism has two main distinctive; a consistently literal interpretation of Scripture, especially with Bible prophecy, and in making a distinction between Israel and the church in God's plan.

 

4.      Interpret Grammatically

 

Bible students need to know exactly which word they are dealing with and in what sense the word is used in the passage being studied.

 

5.      Interpret Contextually

 

An injustice may take place towards the Scriptures when a person does not take the time to study the context of the book, chapter, or passage.

 

6.      Comparing Scripture with Scripture

 

When comparing the four Gospels you will find that they harmonize. As you study each Gospel, it is good to seek a parallel in the other Gospels; however not every passage is mentioned in each account of the Gospels.

 

It is also a blessing to compare the Old and New Testament; discovering wonderful fulfilments of Scripture.

 

Some people believe in “Salvation by Works,” and quote James chapter 2 as their supporting Scripture. If a person will take the time to apply the golden rules of interpretation, and compare James 2 with Ephesians 2:8-9 and  Titus 3:5, they will find out that their interpretation on the passage is not correct.

2 Corinthians 4:1-2 “Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; vs 2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.”

 

In Christ Alone,

C Haddad - Galatians 2:20

 

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