Understanding the Bible

So how do we understand the Bible? So many people have trouble getting into the reading of Scripture because they don't grasp it. I think there are a lot of things that can help people understand the Bible, like study tools (commentaries, concordances, etc.) and methods of proper interpretation. My pastor said in a conversation a few months ago that most people just don't read the Bible the right way. I think that is very true. We have a tendency to read by verse and chapter. Remember that is not how the Bible was written. 

For instance, as I have been studying 1 Peter lately, I thought about important things like the original intent of Peter in writing and the cultural context and was gripped with vivid imagery that opened up my eyes in a whole new way to the words. I realized it was written to churches scattered (because of persecution) in Asian Minor. 

I envision a house church receiving a letter from Peter like this...

God was working mightily in the hearts and lives of those in the fellowship. They were united, and had to be because of the intense suffering and persecution that was upon them. Perhaps loved ones from among the fellowship were pulled away and tortured for their faith. Perhaps some from among them were forced to die the death of a martyr. Possibly they were forced to meet in different place currently because their last place was found out and burned. Yet, they worship. Yet, God works powerfully in them and people were still coming to Christ though it wasn't safe.

While meeting and worshipping together there was a knock at the door... Do we answer it? They obviously know we are in here. What is going to happen if we open it? What will happen if we don't? Last time there was a knock two men were pulled out and beaten so badly that one died. Stillness... And finally, the lead elder walked over to the door as everyone watched. As the door opened it was a messenger--a fellow believer. And, he came with a letter from Peter! What encouragement. 

So, I am sure these believers decided to look at verses 1-5 of the first chapter of Peter's letter and then come back to it next Sunday when they came together again. Right? No! They took it and read the whole thing like you and I would a letter from someone very important to us. Here lies a major disconnect in how many approach the Bible. They forget that there are "books" of the Bible that are letters or narratives or poetry and they have purposes. 

If you want to understand the Bible, you have to read it the right way. Understand what type of writing you are reading and read it appropriately. That is basic to understanding any writing...and it is certainly true with God's Word. Don't try to read just a few verses looking for that magical verse that will fix all your problems and answer all your questions. Let God's Word speak what God intends. 

Now, if the Holy Spirit does not live in you then you can't understand Scripture. Sure you can pick up on historical facts and propositional truths, but God gave us His Word for so much more than that. 

Just some thoughts....

mw