As stewards of Christ it is vital that we know the Master’s will. However, before we embark on our journey of learning, it is necessary to set rules of interpretation.
The first rule is naturally to study, research, learn, and expend the time and effort to the task of educating yourself in The Word. Dedicate your time to this glorious, rewarding task.
(Eph. 4:13-15 KJV) Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ: 14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; 15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
The second rule is Honesty. It is amazing how many authors have dealt deceitfully with the meanings and applications of doctrine. All heretical denominations will abuse the truths of Christ’s teachings in order to justify their own private Doctrines. Jehovah Witnesses, Mormons, Church of Christ, The Roman Catholic Church, The Church of Scotland, The Greek Orthodox Church, etc. etc, have all done it. You can usually tell a false teaching when the one who is the advocate of heresy says, “Yes, but . . . ” in response to scripture which condemns or challenges his version of truth. And then they will move on to some other Bible verse and never answer the objections to his doctrine. This is what is known as the weasel defense.
The third rule is that of not reading into scripture meanings and applications which are not obvious. If there are scriptures questionable, such as the Baptism of the dead, whatever meaning given should be accompanied by corroborative scriptures. Nor should it at anytime or in any way be in disharmony with the entire word of God.. We should always beware of strange and unusual interpretations—Doctrines, and regard them with extreme skepticism.
Fourth: naturally the golden rule of interpretation is: who is talking, to whom is he talking and on what occasion is he talking (the subject of discussion).
Hopefully, this will help guide in the adventure of seeking truth.
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