The Science and Art of Scripture Interpretation

The importance of accurate contextualized interpretation of the Bible is crucial to prevent the
misuse and misapplication of its God-breathed truths. Hermeneutics addresses the science
and art of scripture interpretation. The correct understanding and interpretation of the Bible is
foundational for the unity of doctrine and for teaching, the infallible Word of God. Infallible
meaning according to Webster means incapable of error. In 2 Timothy 3:16 (KJV) All
Scripture is God-breathed the fact that God breathed Scripture ensures that the Bible is truth,
the true inspiration of God coming from His mouth! Without basic skills in hermeneutics, we
would have no way of determining if a particular interpretation of Scripture was right or wrong.
By learning the skills of observation, we will be better equipped to face and discern between
various interpretations of Scripture. You might ask, how can a person, understand the inspired
Word of God? There are several things to take into consideration before reading the
scripture. Before reading approach the Bible in faith and obedience. Prayer is key, to
getting in tune with the Holy Spirit, allowing Him, to guide your heart and mind as you
read and study His word. It helps, as you read the Bible, to look at it as the book that
points to Jesus! Look for Christ and His teachings in the scripture. You will find in the Old
Testament, the prophecies all point to Jesus, the Incarnate Son of God. Isaiah 9:6 (KJV)
reads, For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his
shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father,
Prince of Peace. Another thing to consider is the genre and historical or cultural
background issues to be aware of when reading. The main genres found in the Bible are
law, history, wisdom, poetry, narrative, epistles, prophecy, and apocalyptic literature.
Historical or cultural background issues can be found in works/resources about the
historical and cultural times during the time of the biblical ages. Always, always search to
understand the context for other scripture that relates to what you are reading and how to
connect them to our lives. The following scripture has always been the scripture of
reference, I have used to reinforce, that as called servants of the Lord, we should Study to
shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing
the word of truth, 2 Timothy 2:15 (KJV).

Hope, thanks for your very detailed post. I love how you broke down the scriptures and meaning of the words. I agree God's word is the absolute truth. We must study it so we can accurately understand and interpret it. I love that you also mentioned that we should connect scriptures to our lives.