Interpretation of Scripture

. Introduction

The canonical text is the authoritative and unchangeable Word of God. Unlike the oral scriptures, the canonical books can be studied, tested, and read repeatedly. Because of its historical nature the “literal” meaning of the Word must be found within that historical setting. An accurate interpretation requires an understanding of both the present and historical setting. The Word is preached in public worship so that it may be explained, debated, and tested. As a result, its form may be altered as its meaning is tested against the canonical Word. In order to apply the Word to our present situations, we must understand the both situations, the differences as well as any parallels that exist between the two situations.

Jewish & Gentile – Interpretive Crisis

The Jewish and Gentile Christians used the Old Testament Scripture in various ways. In the first method, Judaizes taught that before coming to Christ Gentiles needed to become Jewish proselytes. Once converted, they were required to observe the 613 commandments. Additionally it was necessary for Gentiles to follow the Law of Moses to be saved. However, Acts 15 verses 6 through 11 settled the argument, it states

“The apostles and the elders met together to consider this matter. After there had been much debate, Peter stood up and said to them, “My brothers, you know that in the early days God made a choice among you, that I should be the one through whom the Gentiles would hear the message of the good news and become believers. And God, who knows the human heart, testified to them by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as he did to us; and in cleansing their hearts by faith he has made no distinction between them and us. Now therefore why are yo...

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...flection

In my Christian tradition, the interpretation of scripture is approached literally, historically and spiritually. My Pastor usually gives background history of the scripture before explaining the context. Similar to most of the ministers in my church he will mention that he received inspiration from God while studying a particular text. As a result, I believe God is the true interpreter of Scripture. Specifically no two individuals get the same meaning from the same scripture. I believe that Scriptural interpretation is inspired by God. Therefore, each person’s approach to interpretation is tailored by God to the individual’s needs. As I consider the early Christian and Medieval methods of interpretation, many of methods are in use today. I believe different methods of interpretation are necessary to accommodate individual approaches to God.