Begin the Journey of Becoming a More Faithful Interpreter

Begin the Journey of Becoming a More Faithful Interpreter

None of us can claim to be inerrant interpreters. No matter what academic degrees or experiences one has, every person stands before the Bible as a learner. Some are farther along on the journey, but that should not intimidate those who are just beginning the trip.

One way to begin the journey toward more faithful interpretation is to start small. By choosing one particular book of the Bible and spending focused time in it over a period of several weeks or months, one will begin to see the importance and benefit of careful Bible study. Make manageable goals on reading and studying the Bible. Possibly invite a friend or friends to make the sojourn alongside you. Bible study, like athletic training, is often furthered by the camaraderie and accountability of a group.

Rome was not built in a day, and a full-orbed knowledge of the Bible is not attainable through reading one book. I am reminded of a seminary student who told me that my semester-long Greek course was much more difficult than the course he could take at an extension center over five weekends. “Yes,” I replied. “That is because in my class you are actually learning the material.”

Sometimes, things are worth what you pay for them. To acquire a rich knowledge of Scripture, one must be willing to spend the time and energy in study. Indeed, with the psalmist, the modern student of Scripture will come to declare, “The law from your [the Lord’s] mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of silver and gold” (Ps. 119:72). 

 

REFLECTION QUESTIONS

1. When you read the Bible, do you, either consciously or unconsciously, take into account the genre of the book you are reading?

2. With whom are you reading and discussing the Bible? How have you benefited from studying the Bible with others? If you are not studying the Bible in community, do you know of an existing small-group Bible study that you can join?

3. Can you think of an instance where additional historical or cultural background information aided you in understanding a biblical text?

4. Have you ever changed your view on what a text of the Bible means by studying the context more carefully? “A text without a context is a pretext.” Can you think of an example or illustration of this maxim?

5. What next step can you take on the journey to becoming a more faithful interpreter?

 

FOR FURTHER STUDY

Carson, D. A. New Testament Commentary Survey. 6th ed. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2007.

Fee, Gordon D., and Douglas Stuart. How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth. 3rd ed. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2003.

Ferguson, Everett. Backgrounds of Early Christianity. 2nd ed. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1993.

Glynn, John. Commentary and Reference Survey: A Comprehensive Guide to Biblical and Theological Resources. 10th ed. Grand Rapids: Kregel, 2007.