A Theological Doctrine

Bibliology - Bible Interpretation

Prompter: Bibliology - Bible Interpretation (2 Tim 2; 2 Pt 1)

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(expanded)

Bible Fact: We must accurately handle God's Word, interpreting it correctly.

- Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth. (2 Tim 2:15)

- ...no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one's own interpretation, for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God. (2 Pt 1:20b-21)


Notes

Simple Definitions:

* Interpretation: (from 2 Pt 1) (Greek epilusis) the explanation, the exposition, the application [from epiluo - to solve]

* Handling Accurately: (from 2 Tim 2) (Greek orthotomeo) to make a straight cut, dissect (expound) correctly, rightly divide, cutting as if by a single stroke (versus hacking repeatedly at something)


Point: Scripture did not originate or spring from men (the prophets), but from God the original Author as He moved them to speak (and record) what He desired.

Point: therefore, the interpretation of Scripture did not come from the authors (the prophets), nor does it come from ourselves (our own interpretation), but is to be in accordance with the Author's (God's) intent.

Point: therefore, we must use proper hermeneutics (rules of interpretation) and exegesis (drawing out of the text what it actually says and what it actually means) to correctly interpret Scripture.