Five principles of interpretation

THE five principles of interpretation are guides to help you better understand what you are reading.

Literal Principle
The Literal Principle states that readers must understand the Bible in its normal, natural, literal sense.
There will be figures of speech and symbols (as in Daniel, Ezekiel and Revelation) but these still convey literal truths. 
Some spiritual enthusiasts have found number patterns in passages in the Bible and have allegedly found hidden truths.
That practice might sound scientific – but it is unbiblical.
Dr John F MacArthur Jnr said God did not write a book to trip up or confuse people and the meanings are supposed to be comprehensible – they are not secrets.

Historical Principle
Here, it states that the Bible must be studied in its historical context.
Good students must work hard to find out what passages meant to the people at that time.
MacArthur said: “A text without a context historically is a pretext.”
In other words, a student reading a book without understanding the times and what was happening there would not completely understand what the text is saying.  
Good Reference Bibles or Commentaries can help in that regard.

Grammatical Principle
This urges one to pay attention to the sentences.
Look at the prepositions, pronouns, verbs and nouns.
In some passages you may be reading about different characters and you must understand who the “he” (pronoun) in one place is referring to.
Or, you may read 10 different verses and the pronoun “she” is used. Make sure you understand who “she” is.
Do not take things for granted.

Synthesis Principle
This principle states that the Bible does not contradict itself. This is what the Reformers referred to as “analogia scriptura” – the scripture all comes together.
In other words, one part of the Bible does not teach what the other part contradicts.
Reading the Bible thoroughly without presumptions enables one to grasp the “oneness” of the scriptures.
What may seem to be a contradiction can be resolved if the student finds the right information.

Practical Principle
This principle is important.
Unlike other books that one reads (for entertainment, relaxation or academia), this book has teachings that people must abide by to be at peace with God and live meaningfully with others – in the family, church, work or society.
The story of sisters Martha and Mary teaches that often it is better to sit and learn than to be busy at work.

Next week: Two other topics in Bible study