Bible on a table 12

The Principles of Biblical Interpretation

Applying the principles of biblical interpretation to your daily life and decision-making involves a combination of understanding God’s Word thoughtfully and living it out practically.

Here are some key steps to help you integrate these principles effectively:

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1. Approach Scripture Prayerfully

Before studying or applying the Bible, take time to pray and ask the Holy Spirit for guidance (John 14:26). Seeking God’s wisdom helps align your thoughts and decisions with His will. Pray for clarity, understanding, and the ability to live according to His Word.

2. Understand the Passage’s Context

Use contextual interpretation to grasp the meaning of Scripture. Consider the historical background, the original audience, and the broader themes of the Bible. For instance, a literal command given to Israel in the Old Testament may have spiritual or typological significance for your life today.

Example: When Jesus teaches in Matthew 6:25-34 not to worry about material needs, understanding the context highlights God’s care for His creation and helps you trust Him in your daily concerns.

3. Look for Principles to Apply (Practical/Devotional Method)

Focus on identifying timeless principles in the Bible that can be applied to your life. As you read Scripture, ask:

  • What does this teach me about God?
  • How does this challenge or encourage me to live differently?
  • What action should I take in response to this truth?

Example: Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages trusting in God rather than your own understanding. You might apply this by seeking God’s direction through prayer when making important decisions rather than relying solely on personal reasoning.

4. Let Scripture Interpret Scripture (Canonical Method)

Use other parts of the Bible to clarify or deepen your understanding of a passage. The Bible is unified in its message, so one passage can often help explain another.

Example: In difficult decisions where mercy or justice is required, balancing Micah 6:8 (“do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God”) with Jesus’ teaching on loving your enemies (Matthew 5:44) can guide your choices in showing both fairness and grace.

5. Evaluate Decisions Theologically (Doctrinal/Theological Method)

Evaluate your daily decisions based on what Scripture reveals about God’s character and overarching will. Ask yourself:

  • Does my choice honor God?
  • Is it consistent with biblical teaching?
    Use passages such as 2 Timothy 3:16-17 to remind yourself that God’s Word is the ultimate guide for instruction and correction.

Example: When deciding how to spend your time and resources, Scriptures such as Matthew 6:33 (“seek ye first the kingdom of God”) and the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) can inform your priorities.

6. Practice Discernment with the Holy Spirit’s Help

No single decision may be straightforward, especially when faced with complex situations. As you practice “rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15), the Holy Spirit will help you discern the wisest course of action. Trust God’s promises to guide those who seek Him (Psalm 119:105).

Example: If you’re choosing between two career paths, pray over passages about using your gifts for God’s glory (1 Peter 4:10-11) or trusting God’s plan for your life (Jeremiah 29:11).

7. Live Out Scripture Consistently

The ultimate purpose of biblical interpretation is to transform your life through obedience to God’s Word. Apply what you learn in practical ways like showing love, forgiving others, or making ethical choices in your job or school.

Example: James 1:22 reminds us to “be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only.” If you read about serving others from Philippians 2:3-4, consider how you can humbly prioritize others in your relationships.

8. Embrace the Big Picture of the Bible

As you interpret Scripture, keep its grand narrative—creation, fall, redemption, and restoration—in mind. Align your decisions with God’s overarching purpose of bringing glory to Himself and reconciling people to Him (Colossians 1:16-20).

Example: When facing conflicts, remember that reconciliation glorifies God (Matthew 5:9) and reflects His restorative mission in the world.

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Conclusion

Incorporating these principles into your daily life makes the Bible a living guide for faith and practice. The more you study and apply Scripture with sincerity and dependence on the Holy Spirit, the clearer God’s wisdom will become in shaping your decisions and actions.