Expert: Scott Talbot - 10/15/2009

Question
What is the best way to go about analyzing a group of scriptures?

Answer
Hi Glen,

You aske a good question. Understanding what God is trying to communicate to us through the Bible can sometimes be a bit challenging, but it helps us to adopt God's value system and live our lives the way He desires.

Perhaps you have a specific reason for your question. Maybe you're dealing with a difficult portion of Scripture. If so, let me know, and I may be able to help you with it.

In the meantime, here are some basic principles for properly interpreting a passage:

1. Understand the Biblical context. Since all Scripture ties together in a unified theme, there may be related passages that will shed light on the specific passage in question. The Bible never contradicts itself, and truth from other passages may help in understanding another passage.

2. Understand the Historical context. Know who the human penman was and to whom he was writing, as well as historical and cultural realities relevant to the original recipients. This will help in understanding how it applies to us today.

3. Understand the context of the Book. Know why that book of the Bible was written and the underlying theme of that book. More specifically, look at the verses surrounding the passage in question--the verses and chapters immediately preceding and succeeding the passage, for a clear understanding of the message.

4. Clearly define individual words and terms. An understanding of the original language and the nuances of the words used in the original Hebrew or Greek will clarify one's understanding. Also, it helps to know how the penman may have used similar words or terminology in other places.

5. Consult several reliable Commentaries. I particularly like the Bible Knowledge Commentary, published by Chariot Victor Publishing. There is an Old Testament edition and a New Testament edition, and they are written by Bible scholars from Dallas Theological Seminary.

In addition, the following link may offer some helpful advice on how to study the Bible.

http://christianity.about.com/od/biblestudyresources/ss/biblestudy.htm

I hope this helps. Let me know if I can be of further assistance.

Scott