PRINCIPLES FOR BIBLICAL STUDY

The following interpretive principles are suggested as simple guidelines. They were passed on to me by my pastor some 25 years ago. I believe these hermeneutical, or interpretive principles are fairly representative of evangelical Protestant hermeneutics.

1. Determine the historical background, the geographical setting, and the chronological period of the Scripture event, saying, or teaching being studied.

2. Consider the relevant socio-economic and cultural factors of the time the event, saying, or teaching occurred or was intended to be heard or observed.

3. Interpret the Bible naturally, normally, or literally unless the language or context suggests otherwise. "Literal" interpretation here means the opposite of figurative, allegorical, or mythical inter­pretation.

4. Consider the contextual setting of the Scripture passage being interpreted. This should include the immediate context, the book context, the testament context, and finally the whole biblical context, Scripture should be compared with and interpreted by other Scripture.

5. Consider the grammar, syntax, and definition of the words in the text. Knowledge and use of the original languages is most helpful here, but not absolutely necessary. Good Bible translations and exe-getical commentaries help immeasurably.

6. Build doctrine rationally, biblically, and systematically. Theo­logy should grow out of the biblical text, be supported by it, and be systematized with the whole of it.

7. In preaching, teaching, witnessing, counseling, or any other practi­cal use cf the Bible two rules are important: (a) Determine the original meaning and intent of the text, (b) Apply the eternal, transcultural truth of the passage to people today.