text:_ How to Read the Bible

[Here are some thoughts on a question that came in by text message Sunday]

Q. What is the general rule of thumb for when the bible can be interpreted word for word?

The rule of thumb is that this approach (word for word) is our standard operating procedure. Like any written communication (Shakespeare, the newspaper, whatever), we use the normal categories of grammar, context, and literary form to figure out what the author intended. For example:

Grammar. You are using your knowledge of grammar right now as you read. For example, you know that pronouns stand in place of nouns, so you correctly interpret the pronoun "you" to mean yourself, the person who started this blog conversation. Furthermore, you assume that I am using vocabulary in its normal way, common in society. The word "assume" does not mean "murder," "mix," or "migrate."

Context. Once again, you are using context to interpret. Knowing that this is a blog, initiated by a blogger, you interpret the pronoun "you" as meaning the person who started the blog.

Literary form (and I would add: figurative language). We use standard interpretive tools when we read various genres. You know that the editorials in the newspapers are designed to express personal opinion, and you read with that in mind. You know that comics operate by their own set of rules, and you do not take them as fact the same way you do when you read a summary of last night's baseball game in the sports section. So if you read a narrative, or proverb, or parable in the Bible, you interpret in light of its genre. For example, we know that parables are realistic fiction designed to teach a truth about the kingdom of God. (By the way, in November, I'm preaching a 3 week series from the parables of Luke). So you try to figure out what the point of the parable is. Concerning figurative language, notice above your phrase "rule of thumb." This phrase would confuse an ESL person (English as a Second Language) since it is not literal and clear, but I know what you mean: "Standard general rule/guideline."

So . . . just read the Bible like you do other documents. That is the rule of thumb. Just keep in mind that the Author spoke through the authors.