Introduction to Doctrine 9 - Principles of Interpretation

"Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15)

As we study the Word of God, we should apply both the spiritual and literal principles of interpretation. The spiritual principles include prayer (Ps. 119:18); cleansing (1 John 1:9), and the illumination by the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 2:12-16). The principle of literally understanding Scripture is to interpret it according to:
1) the mind of the author;
2) it's historical background;
3) the context of the passage; and
4) the basic rules of grammar.
Illustration: Joshua was promised success if he meditated on the law (Josh. 1:8), and he won that success when he conquered the kings of Canaan. As a disciple of Moses, and as one who had a personal relationship with God, he could interpret the law of God and understand God's will for his life.
Application: If we desire the will of God in our lives, we must regularly and systematically interpret God's Word according to its proper meaning.