Exegesis: The Art of Biblical Interpretation

This is the examination of a particular Scripture to properly interpret it. This involves research and study to correctly understand what is written (2 Tim 2:15).

Foundational Principles

Certain basic rules of language are followed. For example, the words are to be taken literally unless there is good reason to view it as a figure of speech. As the Bible does not contradict itself, the theological truth in one verse will be in harmony and confirmed by the fuller understanding in other verses, for good Bible interpretation relates any one portion of Scripture to the whole of God's written Word.

Exegesis requires careful attention to the original languages of Scripture—Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. While translations make the Bible accessible, the study of the original text often reveals nuances and emphases that may be obscured in translation. This linguistic analysis includes understanding grammar, syntax, and word meanings in their ancient context (Heb 4:12).

Historical context is equally crucial. The Bible was written over many centuries in various cultural settings. Understanding the historical circumstances, cultural practices, and social structures of the time helps prevent misinterpretation. For instance, knowing the political situation during the prophetic books or the Jewish customs in the Gospels illuminates the meaning and significance of the text (Neh 8:8).

Literary context governs interpretation. Each passage must be understood in light of its immediate context—the verses and paragraphs surrounding it—as well as its place within the book and the entire canon. Isolating verses from their context often leads to erroneous conclusions. The literary genre also matters; poetry should not be interpreted in the same manner as historical narrative or apocalyptic literature (2 Pet 1:20-21).

Application to Life

From that basis the truths of Scripture must then be applied to bring about the life-changing results intended. Rather than being an intellectual exercise, the study of God's Word is to be a life-changing event. The knowledge gained is to affect the heart which is our control centre (Prov 4:23). Those who put into practice what the Bible teaches will be blessed in what they do (Jas 1:22-25). The effectiveness of our Bible study is measured by the change in our attitudes and behaviour.

True application moves beyond mere knowledge to transformation. The Holy Spirit works through the Word to renew our minds and conform us to the image of Christ (Rom 12:2). This process involves both understanding what God is saying and responding in obedience. As Jesus taught, those who hear His words and put them into practice are like wise builders who built their house on the rock (Mt 7:24-27).

Application should be practical and specific. Rather than vague resolutions, effective Bible study leads to concrete actions—changes in how we speak, how we treat others, how we handle money, or how we respond to suffering. The Scriptures address every area of life, offering wisdom and guidance for daily living. The psalmist declared that God's Word is a lamp to his feet and a light to his path (Ps 119:105).

Community enhances application. Sharing insights with fellow believers, discussing interpretations, and holding one another accountable fosters deeper understanding and practical outworking. The early church devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, recognizing that growth happens best in community (Acts 2:42). Small groups and Bible studies provide contexts for mutual encouragement and application.

Unity in Essentials

While there is legitimate freedom of viewpoints in minor issues where the Bible is not specific or the actual approach to its outworking, there should be agreement with other followers of Jesus in the fundamental truths of Christianity that are contained in the Bible.

The essential doctrines of the Christian faith include the nature of God, the deity and lordship of Jesus Christ, the person and work of the Holy Spirit, the authority of Scripture, and the way of salvation through faith in Christ. These core truths have been upheld by the church throughout history and form the foundation of Christian belief. The New Testament repeatedly emphasizes the importance of maintaining sound doctrine and contending for the faith once delivered to the saints (Jude 3, 1 Tim 4:16).

Unity in essentials does not mean uniformity in all matters. Believers may differ in their understanding of secondary issues such as specific interpretations of prophecy, church governance structures, or certain ethical questions not directly addressed in Scripture. The Apostle Paul addressed this reality in the early church, encouraging believers to accept one another despite differing opinions on disputable matters (Rom 14:1-12, 1 Cor 8:1-13).

Grace should characterize discussions on controversial matters. When believers disagree on non-essential issues, they should do so with humility, recognizing that their own understanding may be incomplete. The pursuit of truth should be accompanied by love for fellow believers. Jesus prayed that His followers would be one, and this unity serves as a powerful testimony to the world (John 17:20-23). The church's credibility depends on its ability to maintain unity in the essentials while showing grace in non-essentials.

Live it out

Reflection and Application:

Approach Scripture with prayer and humility, asking the Holy Spirit for wisdom and understanding (Jas 1:5)
Consider the historical and cultural context of each passage to avoid misinterpretation
Allow the text to speak before imposing personal views or contemporary agendas
Commit to living out the truths discovered, not just acquiring knowledge

Tools for Exegesis

Various resources assist in the task of biblical interpretation. Bible dictionaries provide definitions of words and explain cultural concepts. Commentaries offer scholarly insights into historical context, literary structure, and theological significance. Concordances help locate where specific words appear throughout Scripture, enabling comprehensive study of biblical themes (Ps 119:130).

Bible software has revolutionized exegesis by making original language tools accessible to those without formal training. Programs allow users to compare translations, examine Greek and Hebrew words, and access extensive libraries of commentaries and reference works. However, technology should supplement rather than replace careful reading and meditation on the text (Acts 17:11).

Study Bibles provide helpful introductions to each book, cross-references, and explanatory notes. While these aids can be valuable, they represent the interpretations of their authors and should be weighed carefully against the biblical text itself. The Berean believers were commended for examining the Scriptures daily to verify Paul's teaching, setting an example for all Bible students.

Study wisely

Common Pitfalls

Several errors can compromise sound exegesis. Proof-texting involves selecting isolated verses to support predetermined conclusions without considering context. This approach often misrepresents the biblical author's intended meaning. The devil himself quoted Scripture to Jesus, but he twisted its meaning by taking verses out of context (Matt 4:1-11).

Allegorizing treats historical narratives as mere symbols of spiritual truths, disregarding their literal meaning. While some passages contain symbolic elements, not all Scripture should be interpreted allegorically. The parables of Jesus were specific stories with intended meanings, not open to endless subjective interpretations (Mark 4:33-34).

Eisegesis involves reading one's own ideas into the text rather than drawing meaning out of it. This approach uses the Bible as a mirror for personal opinions rather than allowing it to speak as God's authoritative Word. Sound interpretation requires submitting to what the text actually says, even when it challenges our assumptions (2 Tim 4:3-4).

Neglecting the Holy Spirit's guidance can lead to intellectual pride and spiritual dryness. While rigorous study is essential, the Bible is ultimately a spiritual book that requires spiritual discernment. The natural mind cannot fully comprehend the things of the Spirit of God; true understanding comes through His illumination (1 Cor 2:14-16).

Stay humble

Reflection and Application:

Utilize study tools wisely, recognizing they are servants not masters of interpretation
Guard against common interpretive errors through careful contextual study
Approach Scripture with both intellectual rigor and spiritual sensitivity
Allow the Holy Spirit to guide your understanding and application