Jesus was both human & divine. He was 100% man & 100% God. The same is true of the Word of God. It’s 100% human, penned by fallible human beings; but it’s also 100% divine, which means absolutely perfect and free from error by the Holy Spirit who gives the Bible life.

To interpret the Bible, we must learn the importance of being led by the Holy Spirit. The Bible is the only book that we will ever hold in our hands that is alive. By the power of the Holy Spirit, this Word from God is not a dead letter like every other book we have. This book, by the power of the Holy Spirit is alive.

Guidelines for Interpretation
A. Context is HUGE

As we study, think: Is the interpretation of a passage of Scripture consistent with the theme, purpose and structure of the book in which it is found? Is it consistent with other Scripture about the same subject? Are we considering the historic and cultural context? We do not want to take a Scripture out of its context to make it say what we want it to say.

Guidelines for Interpretation
B. Seek the full COUNSEL of God’s Word

When we know God’s Word thoroughly, we’ll not accept a teaching simply because someone has used one or two isolated verses to support it. We’ll be able to discern whether a teaching is Biblical or not. As we saturate ourselves in the Word of God we’ll create a safeguard against wrong doctrine.

Guidelines for Interpretation
C. Scripture never CONTRADICTS Itself

All Scripture is inspired by God and will never contradict itself. Sometimes, we may find it difficult to reconcile two seemingly contradictory truths taught in Scripture. For this reason, we must grow in our ability to understand God’s Word to us.

Guidelines for Interpretation
D. Interpret Scripture LITERALLY

God spoke to us that we might know truth. Therefore, take the Word of God at face value–in its natural, normal sense. Look first for the clear teaching of Scripture, not a hidden meaning. Understand and recognize figures of speech and interpret them accordingly.

Guidelines for Interpretation
E. Look for the SINGLE meaning of the passage

A. A prescriptive passage of Scripture directs how we should live today.

Example of Prescriptive
Matthew 5:44 (NLT) But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!

In this Scripture Jesus’ words are clear and relevant to every culture, time and place.

B. A descriptive passage describes an instruction given for a particular person, time, culture, or place, and it might not be a directive to perform that action today.

Example of Descriptive
1 Timothy 5:23 (NLT) 23Don’t drink only water. You ought to drink a little wine for the sake of your stomach because you are sick so often.

We know from context that scholars of ancient culture tell us that wine was often used medicinally while water was often contaminated, so Paul’s instructions fit the relationship he has with Timothy, and the best medical advice of the time.