Remember that the books of the Bible were written by dozens of authors, thousands of years ago, on three different continents, in many different historical and cultural contexts. In order to truly understand a passage of scripture, we must make sure to consider the original context in which the book was written.
While all scripture is the inspired Word of God (the definitive story of His redemptive work; God breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness; alive and active; and should be appropriately applied to our lives today) each book of the Bible had a human author and was written to an original audience. When studying a certain passage of scripture, we should ask: who is the author; who were the original readers; what was the original purpose of the writing; and how would the original readers have understood this passage.
Recognize that the books of the Bible were written in many different literary genre including: narrative, history, poetry, wisdom, prophecy, gospels, epistles, and apocalyptic literature. Each genre has some unique qualities and characteristics. Take this into consideration when reading and interpreting any particular passage of scripture.
Consider how the passage fits within the framework of the entire biblical book. Always take into consideration what immediately precedes the passage that you are reading. Also, take into account what immediately follows the passage. Try to answer the question of how the passage you are reading fits within the logical flow of the rest of the biblical book.
Pay close attention to the language of the passage. The Holy Spirit inspired the writers to use specific words and phrases in their writings. Look for key words and for any words that may be repeated. It may be helpful to read two or three different translations to get a better picture of the original language. The best way to truly understand specific words is to utilize a lexicon and look at the original Hebrew or Greek to understand the full meaning of a specific word. You can also explore other places throughout scripture where the same words are used.
Look for the most obvious or literal meaning of the passage. Allow the passage to speak for itself, and do not attempt to find some hidden or secret meaning. Be careful to not read your own meaning into the passage of scripture. Recognize that the biblical writers used figurative language and metaphors at times, the same as we do in everyday life, in order to emphasize a point. In the Gospels, Jesus regularly used parables that were allegorical, utilizing symbolism from daily life to explain a spiritual truth. However, the vast majority of scripture should be understood literally.
Make note of the significant theological themes in the biblical book and specific passage you are studying. Seek to identify the main point and primary purpose of the passage from a theological perspective. What does the passage say about the major theological themes of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration?
Search for what you can learn about the nature and character of God from the passage you are studying. The Bible is the Word of God. It is His written revelation of Himself, His character, His sovereignty, His glory, His will, and His redemptive plan for mankind. Every passage of scripture will reveal something about the nature and character of God.
Allow the Bible to interpret itself. Seek to understand difficult passages by going back to scripture that clearly lays out biblical truth. God is sovereign and His Word will not contradict itself. So always submit passages that are confusing to what is clearly stated elsewhere in scripture.
The purpose of reading, studying, teaching, and preaching God’s Word is transformation. While it is imperative to accurately interpret the Word of God, it is equally vital to apply it to everyday life. Biblical interpretation should always lead to life application!