Author: Christian Channel

Exegesis (Interpreting Scripture by Scripture, Inductive Bible Study)

Meaning
Exegesis refers to the interpretation of scripture based on the contents and context of scripture itself. In other words, it’s the process of letting the scripture tell us what it means, and not us putting meaning into the scripture passage based on what we feel. It’s the process of looking at scripture in the context of the surrounding Bible passages while taking into context the book in which the passage is found. As well as the overall theme of the Bible. The Bible is God’s revelation to mankind about His plan of redemption. Therefore, Biblical exegesis involves the proper examination and study of any specific passage of scripture in order to properly interpret and understand its meaning. Exegesis is a part of the process of hermeneutics. Hermeneutics is the science of biblical interpretation. A common form of exegesis is called the inductive Bible study method. This method follows basic principles of proper hermeneutics, which involves following several basic principles of interpretation. There are several basic principles we must follow when studying scripture.

These include the Grammatical principle which involves looking at the structure and grammar of the original language in which the scripture was written. Next is the Literal principle which means we take each passage of scripture in the normal literal meaning as presented in the original language. And we do so every time unless the context of the passages leads us to do otherwise. This is important because this means we are not to put our own meaning on Bible passages. We are not to reinterpret scripture based on our own personal bias and worldview. There is the Historical principle which means we need to look at scripture taking into context the historical and cultural times of the writer. This also means we do not interpret scripture in the context of today’s cultural norms and morals. Next is the Synthesis principle which means we look at scripture in light of scripture. This means we study Bible passages within the immediate context of the surrounding scripture. We look at the verses before and after the passage in question. We also look at the wider context of the book in which the passage was found, who wrote it, why was it written, what’s the overall theme of the book. In addition, we take into context the Bible as a whole. The Bible indeed does not contradict itself. All Bible passages can and should be harmonized with passages found in other parts of the Bible. And lastly, there is the Practical or Application principle. This principles states after the proper study of the Bible, we understand and apply it to our lives, thereby using scripture and the influence of the Holy Spirit to shape our character and our walk with God.