Reading the Bible is important, but often we interpret what we read in the wrong way. When this happens we can not make an accurate defense of the Scriptures. Likewise, we can take verses out of context, or use them the way we see fit, imposing our own beliefs upon the scriptures, and not looking for the meaning of that passage. That is what the devil wants. If he can help it, no one will know the true meaning of the scripture. To prevent this, we go into hermeneutics: "the art of finding the meaning of an author's words and phrases." (Webster Dictionary)
One of the components of the above practice is going back to the original language(s) that the Bible was written in. Once we go back to that language (Hebrew or Aramaic for Old Testament, Greek for New Testament) we can find out how each word could be translated.
Example: John 21:15
"When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, 'Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?'
"Yes, Lord," he said, 'you know that I love you.'
Jesus said, 'Feed my lambs.'"
The love that Jesus talked about and the love that Simon Peter talked about came from different Greek words, they were not talking about the same love!
Example #2: Ezekiel 26:6 KJV vs. NIV
"Also her daughter villages which are in the fields shall be slain by the sword. Then they shall know that I am the LORD.’" (KJV)
"And her settlements on the mainland will be ravaged by the sword. Then they will know that I am the LORD." (NIV)
Do you see the importance?
Application:
Next time you read a controversial passage, or an interesting or perhaps thought provoking verse, go to a Bible commentary such as Calvin's Commentary and they should give you the background for that verse along with some explanation. Or better yet, get a Greek New Testament, and a Hebrew/Aramaic Old Testament, and learn some new languages! But whatever you do, don't be selfish in your Bible readings, give God all the glory.
The Adherent
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