The only proper way to understand Biblical doctrine is to read in context. Single verses can get right to the point, but the fullness of the passage is realized when we read the verses surrounding it. In fact, reading the chapter is best. Further still, reading the entire book is the only way to grasp the true concepts. You can avoid supposed contradictions by employing this strategy. If you "verse pick" you run the risk of confusion. You may be reading later in a book that has spent time in the beginning building a doctrinal foundation that you miss by looking ahead. You will find yourself second guessing what it is saying or applying burdens to yourself that you shouldn't be carrying.
Context is just so important. Most cults and branches of denominations miss this crucial technique. Context runs beyond the chapter and book. It really is the entire Bible. You should understand the Old Testament (Law) so that you can need the New Testament (Gospel). You can also understand the O.T. better when you understand the N.T. God has not limited His way of speaking to us His Truths. Better still, the thread that runs through all of the books of the Bible is Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit confirms this in our study. He is the context! You can't read Genesis without seeing Him. You can't read the prophets and not know He fulfills it. And through to Revelation, if Christ is not at the center of every doctrinal issue, you can know that you've read it wrong! Think of it as "Context is THE King!" Jesus is our theology. He fits the purpose. He fulfills it. He accomplished it all. Amen.
2 comments:
I want to argue with this because I don't read the Bible the way most Christians do--even you. I do pick out a verse at a time, and there is nothing wrong with that. But that's because I understand the complete work of Christ. So, I will not argue. This post makes so much sense and is true to Jesus, so why the hell would I argue with it?
Nice writings, Trent. I think you have a real knack for this. God has blessed you with an ability to share His gospel. Keep writing.
Mr. Higg is correct. There is nothing wrong with picking out a single verse. It is good to make sure I'm clear about that in my blog. I appreciate his clarification of understanding the complete work of Christ in doing so. That is number one in understanding the Bible. I think we agree on this. Thanks Mr. Higg.
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