GROW YOUR FAITH
For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.
Hebrews 4:12 (NLT)
8 Reasons Why Asking “What Does This Mean to Me” is Bad for Bible Interpretation
Interpreting the Bible is a complex and nuanced task, and while the phrase "What does this mean to me?" isn't inherently bad, it can lead to potential pitfalls and misunderstandings when used as the sole or primary approach. Here are some reasons why relying solely on this approach can be problematic.
Job: Parallels and Echoes of Jesus the Suffering Servant
The Book of Job explores themes concerning human suffering and the enigmatic ways of God. This ancient text explores the human experience in the face of adversity and offers intriguing theological insights that can be seen as precursors to aspects of Jesus Christ’s character and mission.
Unlocking the Depth of Biblical Meaning: Why Relying Solely on Modern Dictionaries for Bible Interpretation Falls Short
Using a modern dictionary for Bible interpretation may not always be sufficient because languages, including biblical languages like Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, evolve over time. This evolution can result in changes in word meanings, nuances, and cultural contexts that may differ significantly from when biblical texts were written.
Esther: Discovering Jesus in Unexpected Places
The Book of Esther is renowned for its enthralling narrative of bravery, divine intervention, and the rescue of an entire people. While it may not overtly reference Jesus Christ, closer scrutiny reveals spiritual insights and echoes of the Savior within its narrative. Let’s unearth the unmistakable presence of Jesus in the Book of Esther.
The Pros and Cons of the "Plain Sense Meaning" Approach to Bible Study
When we read the Bible, shouldn’t we take its words at face value? The answer to that question is both yes and no. While every word in the Bible is true, God inspired the writers to use metaphor, symbolism, irony, and other literary devices to convey the message.
Nehemiah: Revealing Christ's Character and Mission
The Book of Nehemiah, found in the Old Testament, often escapes notice within the collection of biblical stories. Yet, beneath its apparently ordinary account of post-exilic Israel's endeavors to reconstruct the walls of Jerusalem lies a remarkable unveiling of Jesus Christ. While Nehemiah may not directly introduce us to the Messiah as the Gospels do, it offers a compelling glimpse into Christ's character, mission, and redemptive work in the world.