Being far removed from the time when the Bible was written is both a blessing and a challenge. On the one hand, we profit from centuries of insights from Christians who have studied, pondered, and sought to faithfully teach the Scriptures. Their work provides us with a valuable resource of meditations, teachings, and examples of faith that continue to benefit us today.
On the other hand, this distance can be a challenge because of the assumptions and doctrines we bring to the Bible. While the contributions of theologians and scholars are invaluable, they can sometimes hinder our understanding of the Bible’s intended meaning. Too often, we treat their teachings as the final word on Biblical doctrine, leaving little room for exploration or questioning. This elevates human interpretation above the divine truth revealed in Scripture.
Biblical Christianity must be rooted in God’s Word rather than in the interpretations of even the most brilliant thinkers. Our standard for truth cannot be defined by what someone else declares it to be. Instead, it must be grounded in the truth God has revealed through the Bible.
A Call to Submission
I am reminded of a thought-provoking observation from Scot McKnight in his commentary on Galatians:
“Our stance is submission to whatever the text says, regardless of what that means for our thinking and lifestyle. We are using a slippery escape when we distort the interpretation so that it fits our predispositions; we are not finding a slippery escape when we accept the text as it stands, regardless of its implications for life. Every honest interpreter can give countless examples of finding himself or herself to be simply wrong and in need of God’s grace as a result of reading the Bible with the purpose of hearing God’s word.” (The NIV Application Commentary: Galatians, p. 56)
This quote challenges us to approach Scripture with humility, ready to submit to its message even when it disrupts our assumptions. It reminds us that we must let God’s Word shape us rather than trying to shape Scripture to fit our preferences.
Understanding the Historical Context
One way to approach the Bible with humility is to remember that it was written in a particular time and place in history. Understanding the Bible in its historical context is crucial for uncovering its true message. Each book of the Bible was written in a specific cultural, historical, and linguistic setting. Without considering these factors, we risk misinterpreting its meaning or projecting modern assumptions onto ancient texts.
For example, understanding the cultural practices and political tensions of first-century Judea can shed light on Jesus’ teachings, while exploring the legal codes of the Ancient Near East can provide deeper insights into the Old Testament laws. By studying the Bible with an awareness of its original context, we can better appreciate its timeless truths.
Leaning on Trusted Scholars
Since the Bible was written in a particular place, time, and culture, we must have the humility to acknowledge that there are aspects of it we may not fully understand. Even with an excellent translation, thoughts, metaphors, and cultural nuances might go over our heads.
This is where scholars become a vital resource. Their expertise in ancient languages, culture, and history provides a fuller picture of what the Bible conveys. They help us grasp the ideas behind the words that English translations alone cannot always capture.
By learning from Biblical scholars, we gain a deeper understanding of Scripture and its application to our lives.
Understanding Other Perspectives
Engaging with others who hold different interpretations is another valuable way to deepen our understanding of Scripture. Listening to perspectives that differ from our own challenges us to think critically and examine our beliefs. It helps us better understand why we believe what we believe.
Healthy dialogue can uncover nuances in the text we might overlook on our own. Such conversations foster unity and mutual growth, reminding us that we are all seeking to know God more fully. By approaching these discussions with humility and a willingness to learn, we grow together in faith.
A Challenge for Christians
I want to offer you a challenge: approach the Bible with the singular goal of hearing God’s Word. Set aside your preconceived notions, your theological positions, and even your sense of certainty. Open your heart and mind to what God has to say.
How many times have we missed out on hearing God’s voice because we approached the Bible with the belief that we already had it all figured out? Humility is key. It means being willing to admit that we don’t have all the answers and that our interpretations may need correction.
But in exchange, we gain a deeper understanding of God and a closer relationship with Him. That, I believe, is a trade worth making.
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