A single piece of scripture may have many interpretations. Like a fine work of art, the Bible evokes different meanings to the eyes of each beholder. One person may see an ancient document linking them to the past, while another comprehends a literal translation applicable to daily life. And a third may hear a deeper message directly from God.
Are these variances based on emotional need? If so, then perhaps Bible interpretation belongs to those with a much higher level of understanding and education.
Written by ordinary men about extraordinary events, thousands of years ago...Historical, Literal and Metaphysical.
How do you read the Bible?
Maybe we should try all three approaches and see which one speaks to us, so that we can hear His Word...
ReplyDeleteI've found that reading the bible using all three approaches created more contradiction than conviction. That being said, I divide the bible into three component parts. 1) That which God said 2) That which Jesus said, and 3) That which man said. In doing this, the teachings from the bible become clear to me. God speaks Literally, Jesus speaks Metaphysically, and man speaks Historically. For example; God spoke the 10 commandments and meant it literally. Jesus spoke in parables to teach God's message by example, and the books of the apostles and others provide historical mapping without always being accurate and true to God's love for us.
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