What is the Bible's teaching on hermeneutics, and how does it guide us in understanding Scripture?
Hermeneutics is the science of interpretation – the disciplined study of determining what God meant by what He said. The Bible teaches that there are five works of the Holy Spirit regarding the Word: Revelation, Inspiration, Preservation, Illumination, and Interpretation. In illumination, the Holy Spirit casts light on the Word, making it clear to man. However, only those with a humble attitude, seeking to be filled by means of the Spirit, will have their eyes opened when studying Scripture. The Apostle Peter emphasizes that there is only one correct interpretation of any passage in the Bible – the Bible's own interpretation. To discover this, we must apply the laws of hermeneutics, following rules of systematic study. Exegesis, or the grammatical study of individual words and their combinations, is essential to understanding Scripture accurately. By combining exegesis with historical (isagogics) and doctrinal (categories) approaches, we can ensure that our interpretation remains accurate. The Bible promises preservation of its Word, which will last forever (Psalm 119:89, 152).
Source: The Basics The Basics — Hermeneutics (canonical doctrine) · Read this lesson in the book →
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See also
- What is the Bible's doctrine of inspiration, and how does it ensure the accuracy and authority of Scripture?Same lesson · The Basics · Lesson 2–1: The Manual—The Bible
- What is the goal of a Christian's life, and how can it be achieved?Same lesson · The Basics
- What is the Bible's role in training believers in righteousness?Same lesson · The Basics · Lesson 2–1: The Manual—The Bible
- What does the Bible teach about the righteousness of God?Same lesson · The Basics
- What is the role of illumination in understanding Scripture?Same lesson · The Basics
- What is the Bible's teaching on interpretation, and how can we accurately understand its meaning?Same lesson · The Basics · Lesson 2–1: The Manual—The Bible
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