Interpreting Scripture With JesusSample

The Opening Of Our Minds

There is a term we use when someone is not willing to consider an alternative view - close-mindedness. To some extent, we are all close-minded. We all have a preferred view of reality based on our knowledge and experience. Not only that but the brain is actually trained to fit reality into the frame of what we already believe to be true. All new information that we receive is filtered unconsciously by our brain to fit our existing worldview.

This presents a serious problem for us interpreting scripture. We automatically read scripture through our lens of knowledge and experience. The problem with that, of course, is that it hinders us from receiving any truth that does not fit with what we already know. This is what happened to the disciples in Luke chapter twenty-four. Although the scriptures foretold of the coming of the Messiah who would suffer, die and rise on the third day, they still couldn't piece it together when the risen Christ stood among them. What they were seeing with their own eyes did not mesh with what they had been taught and had experienced up to that point. Therefore, Jesus had to open their minds.

We are very much like the disciples today; in need of Jesus to open our minds to understand the scriptures for our time and culture.

Jesus, open our minds to receive the truth as we meditate on the Scriptures. We do not depend on our human wisdom, Lord. We come to You knowing that You alone are the Truth.