BSM 2.7
Interpret Comparatively
This principle of comparative interpretation focuses on the internal consistency of the Word of God, pointing us to the importance of comparing Scripture with Scripture to analyze similarities in subject matter, so that we might arrive at correct meanings.
It is important to compare subjects similar to one another, such as grace and mercy, and also subjects very different from one another, such as God and Satan. When we compare similarities and differences of subjects in remote contexts, we put together a picture that has been cut into pieces - sometimes a great number of pieces. Theology is developed by putting these pieces together.
Not only the novice (1 Tim 3:6), but also the experienced interpreter must be careful in the development of theology (Prov 3:5-6), realizing that important details within the 31,000+ verses of Scripture may have been overlooked. The sheer volume of material we are trying to understand should keep us aware of the potential for error, and therefore keep us humble.
As we compare Scripture with Scripture, we come to find out that a given theological issue is considered in many parts of the Bible. One example is the issue of "Justification by Faith" (Gen 15:6; Rom 3-4). When we find a contrasting passage that speaks of a "Justification by Works," such as found in James 2:14-26, we must consider both passages. When we put both passages together, we understand "works" as necessary in the plan of God, as an outgrowth of the faith that led to salvation, but not as a means to acquire salvation. This principle is also taught in Ephesians 2:8-10. We are "saved by grace through faith," and have been "created for good works."
This same principle teaches us to beware of building theology or doctrine on passages or textual readings of questionable intent. For example, the Greek text from Mark 16:9 to the end of the book is very uncertain. Some people have built doctrine on these passages, which has resulted in erroneous theology.
Another example of the importance of comparing Scripture with Scripture is seen in the identification of the "mystery" (namely, something unknown) which is referred to many times in the New Testament. Normally, if we were studying Ephesians 3 and ran into the word "mystery" we would try to answer the question, "what is the mystery?" Our answer, however, is found in Colossians 1:25-27, which says:
"Of this church I was made a minister according to the stewardship from God bestowed on me for your benefit, that I might fully carry out the preaching of the word of God; that is, the mystery which has been hidden from the past ages and generations; but has now been manifested to His saints, to whom God willed to make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory."
The "mystery" is identified by Scripture as a new intimate relationship with the Messiah. This relationship is for the new era known as the Church Age.
FOR PERSONAL STUDY
# Why is it important to compare Scripture with Scripture?
# What is important to note about major theological issues?
# List some similar subjects you would like to compare.
# List some different subjects you would like to consider.
Masters Degrees in Hermeneutics
comments
Leave a Reply