Lu 11:52 Woe unto you, lawyers! for ye have taken away the key of knowledge: ye entered not in yourselves, and them that were entering in ye hindered.
Our Goal In This Essay.
In this essay we are going to look at several so-called principles of Bible study which are commonly taught and widely accepted. We find that there is usually no scripture given whatsoever to support the adoption of these principles. In researching the sources of these teachings on the internet, we only found one case where the writer used scripture to help make his point, and in that case the scripture reference was incorrect.
Let me repeat that for you because it’s very important. We are going to identify several widely taught and commonly accepted principles of Bible study for which there is simply no scriptural support offered. They are man made principles, the product of man’s wisdom.
Secondly, to make things worse, The Bible consistently teaches the opposite of what these principles teach. For this reason we have used the phrase ‘sacred cow’ to describe these ideas. To clarify this term, here is a definition.
Sacred Cow: Anything which has been protected regardless of circumstance. The term ‘sacred cow’ has come to mean any stubborn loyalty to a long standing institution which impedes natural progress. The term originates in India where the cow is said to be literally worshipped while thousands of humans suffer from undernourishment. Adapted from "Cultural Literacy" by E. D. Hirsch, Jr.
What are these principles? First and foremost [or worst and foremost] is Literalism. The Law of Literal Interpretation. Next is the Law of Context. Following that and to a lesser degree of severity are The Historical Approach, and the attempt to achieve Interpretive Unity or Systematic Theology. The root error behind all of these is the attempt to find and use a method to interpret God’s word rather than rely on the Holy Spirit.
These all qualify as sacred cows. They are quite stubbornly adhered to. [Just read some of the literature and you will see what I mean.] They lead to wrong conclusions and prevent the student from reaching correct ones. We quoted Luke 11:52 above which mentions that the lawyers [alleged experts in the law] have taken away the ‘key of knowledge’. In Jesus’ day, these were the experts in the Law of Moses, the Torah, and the other scriptures. Today they are well known bible teachers, scholars, seminary professors and best selling writers.
They do not arrive at or demonstrate any real knowledge themselves and they prevent others from doing so. The consequences of this can be dreadful. In Hosea 4 it says:
Ho 4:6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, ….
The quote from Luke above mentions the Key of Knowledge. Later we’ll take a look at a couple examples of keys of knowledge and see exactly how they are taken away by following these principles. Now we will look at these four principles. As they are closely related and used to support each other, please understand that we may need to repeat ourselves at some point in our critique.
Literalism
In looking at literalism we are going to be presenting some quotes by various writers found on the internet which support this view.
First of all, what is literalism and what is literal interpretation? Our dictionary tells us this:.
lit·er·al (lît¹er-el) adjective
1. Being in accordance with, conforming to, or upholding the exact or primary meaning of a word or words.
2. Word for word; verbatim: a literal translation.
3. Avoiding exaggeration, metaphor, or embellishment; factual; prosaic: a literal description; a literal mind.
My summary of this is "sticking to the exact meaning and avoiding exaggeration, metaphor or embellishment".
So the law of literal interpretation then says "Always interpret scripture sticking to the exact meaning and avoiding exaggeration, metaphor or embellishment wherever possible, and only if this fails are you to seek another way of interpretation." Note: this is not denying that there are other ways of interpreting scripture, nor does it deny that the bible uses exaggeration, metaphor and embellishment. All it does is tell us to avoid these things.
Here is another version of the Law of Literal Interpretation.
"If the literal sense makes sense, seek no other sense." Cooper P. Abrams
This is the actual definition that literalists use. It entails avoiding exaggeration, etc. Literalists do in practice allow for metaphors and figures of speech. Where they often fail in practice is right at the root of their very own method, which is upholding the exact or primary meaning of a word. See Who’s Taken and Who’s Left Behind by Joe Ortiz.
However literalists consider this principle to be of major importance. Is there any scripture offered to support this? No. But literalists offer many reasons. We’ll look at a few of them here, for example.
The Bible Is Meant To Be Taken Literally.
Is there any scripture offered to support this? No. Now what does the Bible say?
In Hosea 12, God outlines his methods of speaking to man.
I have also spoken by the prophets, and I have multiplied visions, and used similitudes, by the ministry of the prophets. Hosea 12:10
Let me point out here that the ministry of the prophets includes those who like Moses, Isaiah, Luke, John, etc. were the actual writers of the bible. So their writings are not just historical records i.e. literal, but God's way of speaking by similitude i.e. non-literal. To put it another way, God is telling us that the bible is primarily non-literal.
Now even the historical parts are primarily non-literal. Look what it says here.
Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. 1 Corinthians 10:11
To rephrase this, God is saying that the things that happened in the bible are recorded as examples for our learning. So the primary use of them is not to record what happened [literal] but to impart a lesson [spiritual].
Here he is discussing another 'historical' event, showing the non-literal interpretation.
But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise.
Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar. Galatians 4:23-24
He is letting us know that the histories recorded in the bible are meant as allegories [lessons and illustrations].
There are many cases where God presents a parable and then shows us how to interpret it.
Look at Jesus explaining the parable of the sower.
And he taught them many things by parables, and said unto them in his doctrine, Mark 4:2
And he said unto them, Know ye not this parable? and how then will ye know all parables?
The sower soweth the word.
And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts.
And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness;
And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended.
And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word, …. Mark 4:13-18
Here Jesus explains each element of the parable and shows their relationships. But he is also giving them a lesson in bible interpretation. Note that he says And he said unto them, Know ye not this parable? and how then will ye know all parables? This is to say, the way that you interpret this parable is the way to interpret parables in general. This applies to the whole bible.
The bible is full of religious laws and rituals, all strictly literal, right? Well looking in Colossians and Hebrews we see there that these things are shadows, that is outlines or patterns. They are images and pictures pointing to something greater.
Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days:
Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ. Col 2:16-17
For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect. Heb 10:1
Another case of religious law with deeper meaning is covered in my article The Case of the Kosher Cheeseburger.
One problem with this law of literal interpretation is that it leads people to think that all they need to understand the bible is a good set of dictionaries. In other words, you can understand most all of the bible without the help of the Holy Spirit.
The bible comes right out and tells us that this will not work!
But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. 1Co 2:14
Let's rephrase this verse.
But the natural man [who interprets literally] receiveth not [cannot understand] the things of the Spirit of God: [the things written by the Spirit of God in the scriptures] for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. [because they are only understood spiritually.] 1 Co 2:14
The Bible Is Written In Plain Simple Language That Is Easy To Understand.
Here is another point literalists make. Here are a couple quotes that develop this idea.
Clearly God did not give us His written word that it should be a source of confusion as to what He wanted to communicate to us. God gave us His word in written form whereby it would be available to all so that everyone could know His truth. Further He wrote it in such a way as to be clear and not be complicated and misleading. Cooper P Abrams III
Is there any scripture offered to support this? No.
If God is the originator of language and if the chief purpose of originating it was to convey His message to humanity, then it must follow that He, being all wise and all loving, originated sufficient language to convey all that was in His heart to tell mankind . If language is the creation of God for the purpose of conveying His message, then a theist must view that language as sufficient in scope and normative in use to accomplish that purpose for which God originated it" (Ryrie, Dispensationalism), 81.
Is there any scripture offered to support this? No. What does the Bible say? We could easily find many examples of very difficult passages in the Bible, but here is second Peter it comes right out and says that it contains things that are hard to understand.
2Pe 3:16 As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.
These literalists insist that the Bible is written in plain simple language that is easy to understand. What does the Bible say?
Few acknowledge this, however the Bible itself indicates that it is a Sealed Book. There are three references to sealed book(s) in the Old Testament. The most well known is that in Daniel. Here is part of it:
Daniel 12:4 But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words and seal the book, even to the time of the end. Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased."
We find two references in Isaiah on the same topic.
Isaiah 8:16 Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples.
Isaiah 29: 10 For the LORD hath poured out upon you the spirit of deep sleep, and hath closed your eyes; the prophets and your rulers, the seers hath He covered.
11 And the vision of all has become unto you as the words of a book that is sealed, which men deliver to one that is learned, saying, "Read this, I pray thee"; and he saith, "I cannot, for it is sealed."
12 And the book is delivered to him that is not learned, saying, "Read this, I pray thee"; and he saith, "I am not learned."
Later in the same chapter of Isaiah, the Lord speaks of a future day when things will be different.
Isaiah 29:18 And in that day shall the deaf hear the words of the book, and the eyes of the blind shall see out of obscurity and out of darkness.
Some writers claim that the book sealed is just the book of Daniel and do not see the connection between that reference and the others mentioned here. But the reference in Isaiah uses the words 'testimony' and 'law'. These words commonly refer to the Word of God. [See Psalm 119 for example.] The quote from Isaiah 29 says the people have no vision. And it's not just a case of not being able to read, the unlearned one can't read. It's a case of not being able to understand what is being read. The learned one cannot read it because it is sealed. That is he can tell you exactly what it says, but he has no idea what it really means!
This speaks of the condition of the Church where we all have a good idea of what the bible says, but cannot come to any agreement about what it means!
seal the law among my disciples
The book that is sealed is the Bible! The entire Bible, not just Daniel.
There is one sense in which the Word is a Sealed book to the unbeliever. In that the natural man cannot understand the Word since things of the Spirit must be understood by the Spirit. That is with the Spirit of God to enable you to understand His Word.
Yet these references are talking about God's people not being able to understand the Word. Here is an example form 2nd Corinthians:
2 Corinthians 3:
14 But their minds were blinded; and up until this day the same veil remaineth untaken away in the reading of the old testament, which veil is done away with in Christ.
15 But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the veil is upon their hearts.
16 Nevertheless when they shall turn to the Lord, the veil shall be taken away.
Notice this passage speaks of a veil blinding their minds. Yet there is a promise that the veil will be removed when they turn to the Lord. Let's not presume to think that this applies only to the old testament Hebrew people. It speaks just as surely to the church of today.
Most Of The Law Refers Only To Israel
This is the idea that the Mosaic Covenant represents God’s dealing with the nation of Israel. As such it is not directly applicable to us.
Is there any scripture offered to support this? No. What does the Bible say?
For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen?
Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: ….. 1 Corinthians 9:9-10
Here God is making a direct application of elements of the Mosaic law. So when they say it only refers to Israel and we can ignore what does not apply to us, it’s clearly unscriptural. This type of thinking leads many to believe that they can safely ignore many portions of God’s word. But the Bible says all scripture is important.
2Ti 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
Allegory Avoids The Literal Meaning Of Scripture.
Resorting to allegory to interpret the bible is a way of avoiding its literal meaning. [paraphrased] Robert Bradshaw
Is there any scripture offered to support this? No. What does the Bible say?
But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise.
Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar. Galatians 4:23-24
Here the bible tells us that certain historical events are to be understood as allegories. But there is no attempt to deny the reality of the original events. Secondly one does not ‘resort’ to allegory. God reveals the allegory to the reader who seeks after Him, as He sees fit.
Another Objection to Allegory
The allegorizers believe that the Holy Spirit reveals to the serious student the things of the Spirit, so that he may understand the mysterious secrets that are hidden beneath the surface of the words. If that be so, why does He reveal one thing to one man and something altogether contradictory to another? William A. Simpson
Here the writer is denying the role of the Spirit in understanding the Bible. But is any proof offered? No. Is there any scripture offered to support this? No. And what does the Bible say?
1Co 2:13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
Literalism brings out the author’s original intent.
One writer, for example, interpreted the food laws of Deuteronomy 14:7 in the following way. The clean animal symbolizes a true Christian who is able to both chew the cud (=meditate on the Word) of God, the Bible) and be cloven-footed (=walk in the world while not being corrupted by it and in the Spirit at the same time). Such interpretations are no doubt ingenious, but have nothing to do with the author’s original intent, which should always be our guide when interpreting the Bible. Robert Bradshaw
Here the literalist critic presumes to know the author’s original intent.
The great need today then in determining what the Bible really teaches is a correct and biblical method of interpretation. If the Bible is the Word of God and God's revelation to man, then surely God would not give us His revelation without a way to accurately discern what He meant. For God not to give us a way to interpret the Bible is to leave the interpretation of Scripture to human wisdom that is at best faulty. To have the interpretation of Scripture rest on man's wisdom is to have "flesh" interpreting that which is spiritual. Cooper P. Abrams
Is there any scripture offered to support this? No. What does the Bible say?
Ge 40:8 And they said unto him, We have dreamed a dream, and there is no interpreter of it. And Joseph said unto them, Do not interpretations belong to God? tell me them, I pray you.
1Co 2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
God did give us a way to understand the bible. Only it’s not found in methods or systems, nor any human wisdom.
Literalism states that the text of the bible can have only one meaning.
When the words of Scripture were penned they had only one meaning. We should search for that one meaning. To accept multiple interpretations for one scripture passage causes confusion. Scripture itself does not allow for multiple interpretations of a verse. Cooper P. Abrams.
Is there any scripture offered to support this? No. What does the Bible say? Once again, look at 1 Corinthians 9.
For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen?
Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: ….. 1 Corinthians 9:9-10
Could this be a case where the author’s original intent was to allow for a double meaning?
Literalism brings out the good news of the gospel.
The word gospel means good news. Under a literal method of interpretation, the news is always sublime for the believer, with no trace of dread. Under every other method, the hearer is always left with a web of fear stretched across the pit of the stomach. William A. Simpson
Is there any scripture offered to support this? No. What does the Bible say?
Php 2:12 ¶ Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
Pr 1:7 ¶ The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Literalism brings out the Hope of the Christian.
Invariably, under every other system of theology besides a literal interpretation there is a diminishing of the hope of the Christian. William A. Simpson
Is there any scripture offered to support this? No. Neither is any other proof suggested.
Literalism avoids subjective interpretation.
Instead of superimposing a meaning on the biblical text, the objective interpreter seeks to discover the author's intended meaning (the only true meaning). One must recognize that what a passage means is fixed by the author and is not subject to alteration by readers. "Meaning" is determined by the author; it is discovered by readers. Our goal must be exegesis (drawing the meaning out of the text) and not eisogesis (superimposing a meaning onto the text).
Is there any scripture offered to support this? No. We are expected to accept this reasoning without any proof.
Literalism And Figurative Language.
Literalism does recognize the extensive use of figurative language. It is quite comfortable when it comes to symbolism and figures of speech.
So you see, a literal interpretation of Scripture recognizes symbols and figures of speech when presented by the author. But we understand them to have literal meanings based on their context, that is, the author's intention. Gary Nystrom
Where literalism falls critically short is when it comes to dealing with typology.
Typology
"A type may be defined as an Old Testament person, event, or thing having historical reality and designed by God to prefigure (foreshadow) in a preparatory way a real person, event, or thing so designated in the New Testament and that corresponds to and fulfills (heightens) the type A type has a predictive or foreshadowing element to it. It looks ahead and anticipates and points to the antitype - the antitype is greater than and superior to the type" (Zuck, Basic Bible Interpretation) 176, 173).
"In summary, a type must have at least these five elements: a notable resemblance or correspondence between the type and the antitype, historical reality in both the type and the antitype, a prefiguring or predictive foreshadowing of the antitype by the type, a heightening in which the antitype is greater than the type, and divine design" (Ibid), 175.
Examples:
Type: Floodwaters in Noah's day
Antitype: Water Baptism (1 Peter 3:21)
Type: Sabbath
Antitype: The Christian's spiritual rest (Col. 2:17; Heb. 4:3,9, 11)
Type: Sin Offerings
Antitype: Christ's death as an atonement for the sin (Lev. 5:14-6:7; Heb. 10:12) Todd Swift
Is there any scripture offered to support this? No. These ‘rules of typology’ are strictly man’s invention. What does the Bible say? Well the bible speaks of similitudes, types, shadows, figures and allegories. But nowhere does it define these things or restrict their use.
The Key Failure of Literalism
Figures of speech are easy to recognize, symbols are harder. Types and allegories are not obvious in the least. So if we are following the rule of literalism, we are never going to find out types or allegories. This is simply because when types and allegories are used, the literal sense makes sense. And we are told in this case to seek no farther! Figures of speech can be spotted easily. Types and allegories must be revealed to us by the Holy Spirit. Once this is done, they can be analyzed and lessons drawn from them. But if you never seek them, you just won’t get it. And thereby you will miss out on much of what the bible has to say, because, as we read in Hosea 12 above, He speaks to us in similitudes or typology. So we may consider typology to be a key of knowledge since it leads to greater understanding of what God is saying. By eliminating or de-emphasizing typology, literalism takes away one of the Keys of Knowledge.
Now that’s enough examples of reasons offered for literalism. The main problem is literalism itself. Let’s look back at the basic rule of literalism and see how well it holds up.
Literalism Is The Problem
A great number of bible scholars and teachers continually tell us that the proper way to understand the bible is through consistent literal interpretation. To restate it, this Law of Literal Interpretation says:
Always interpret scripture literally wherever possible.
"If the literal sense makes sense, seek no other sense."
Once again we find that there is never any scriptural justification offered for adopting this principle. We have found many reasons offered which sound logical and proper, but nothing in the Bible that tells us this is the way to proceed. This is a case of what can happen when we rely on man’s wisdom.
It’s not so much what they are telling us to do, but what this law is telling us not to do? It’s telling us not to seek; seek no other sense. That is not to seek any further than the literal meaning of scripture. But what does the bible say? It says just the opposite. It tells us to seek, long, hard and diligently. We must seek after wisdom with a passion. And what’s more it tells us this in many places all through scripture.
Scriptures on Seeking
Pr 2:1 My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee;
2 So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding;
3 Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding;
4 If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures;
5 Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.
6 For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.
Mt 7:7 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:
Lu 11:9 And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.
Ps 27:4 One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple.
Isa 45:11 Thus saith the LORD, the Holy One of Israel, and his Maker, Ask me of things to come concerning my sons, and concerning the work of my hands command ye me.
Jer 33:3 Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.
Pr 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Proverbs 3:5 is especially telling. Here God is warning us about depending on man’s wisdom, which he depicts as thine own understanding.
The Key of Knowledge
It’s a simple matter to under stand what all these scriptures are getting at. The Key of Knowledge is to seek for it. But we are being told by supposed experts not to seek after wisdom and knowledge, especially in typology. This is exactly how the Law of literal interpretation takes away the Key of Knowledge, by teaching us not to seek for it. As we read in Luke earlier:
Lu 11:52 Woe unto you, lawyers! for ye have taken away the key of knowledge: ye entered not in yourselves, and them that were entering in ye hindered.
So the ‘lawyers’ who teach literalism today are just like the ones in Jesus’ day. They don’t acquire any knowledge themselves, and they hinder those who would.
Now consider this quote from Colossians.
That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ;
In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Colossians 2:2-3
It’s telling us that hidden in Christ [who is the Word of God] are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. This means deep revelation, rich understanding and mature insight await those who seek into the Word after it.
The Bible says to seek after it.
Literalism says ‘don’t bother looking’.
The literal meaning is all there is. This failure of literalism is starting to become very obvious.
Now look here at what it says in 1 Corinthians 8:
1Co 8:2 And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.
We could easily rephrase this, without loosing any meaning, as follows.
If any man thinks he knows anything about the bible, by understanding the literal meaning, he knows nothing yet as he should. And nothing compared to what he could still learn from the Holy Spirit.
So it’s up to us to keep on seeking.
The Law Of Context
Another sacred cow is the law of context. People are quick to jump on you when you quote something out of context, usually if they disagree with the point you are making. Sure scripture can be misinterpreted by taking it out of context. But we see this taken to extremes with the implication that any verse taken out of context is an attempt to twist the scripture.
The rule of CONTEXT: The meaning must be gathered from the context. Every word you read must be understood in the light of the words that come before and after it. … Seeking the biblical author's intended meaning necessitates interpreting Bible verses in context. Every word in the Bible is part of a verse, and every verse is part of a paragraph, and every paragraph is part of a book, and every book is part of the whole of Scripture. No verse of Scripture can be divorced from the verses around it. Interpreting a verse apart from its context is like trying to analyze a Rembrandt painting by looking at only a single square inch of the painting. The context is absolutely critical to properly interpreting Bible verses. Ron Rhodes
This writer tells us “No verse of Scripture can be divorced from the verses around it.” Is there any scripture offered to support this? No. How does the Bible deal with verses out of context?
Taking verses of scripture out of context is exactly what the New Testament writers do when quoting the Old Testament scriptures. We have seen it mentioned that the New testament quotes the Old testament over a thousand times. How many of those quotes consider the context? Few if any do. Furthermore in the cases where they do indicate the context it is only to indicate which writer they are quoting.
In the gospels, when Jesus was confronted by scripture quoting opponents, including the Devil, did he ever rebuke them for taking verses out of context? No that was never an issue. [In John 8:5 there was a problem with Pharisees misquoting scripture however. See my article Mighty In Battle. ]
So we see context was not an important issue for Jesus or for the New Testament writers. Why is this? Do we have cases where Mathew or Paul is quoting Moses or Isaiah out of context? Or do we have cases where God is quoting himself, and the context does not matter because it’s still the word of God? We even have cases where God quotes himself out of context and does so in a way that deliberately changes the meaning, thereby breaking the law of context! Compare these verses.
Ho 11:1 When Israel was a child, then I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt.
Mt 2:15 And [Jesus] was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.
Context is important in studying scripture, but not always necessary. Taking things out of context is not automatically wrong.
Historical School Of Interpretation
This approach majors on the social, linguistic, religious and political setting of the various books, treating them as history and or literature.
Is there any scripture offered to support this? No. What does the Bible say?
Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. 1 Corinthians 10:11
To rephrase this, God is saying that the things that happened in the bible are recorded as examples for our learning. They are not intended primarily as history or sociology or literature. They are to teach us spiritual lessons.
To repeat what we said earlier, even the historical parts are primarily non-literal.
Another exponent of the historical school has this to say:
Only by objective methodology can we bridge the gap between our minds and the minds of the biblical writers. Indeed, our method of interpreting Scripture is valid or invalid to the extent that it really unfolds the meaning a statement had for the author and the first hearers or readers. Ron Rhodes
Is there any scripture offered to support this? No. The Bible says:
Mt 11:25 At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.
This historical approach involves a basic failure to understand the nature of inspiration. On one hand these writers acknowledge that scripture is God inspired, then on the other hand, they try and figure out what the writer meant as if the scripture were the work of the writer.
We have here a failure to understand what God inspired means. They seem to think that God inspires a writer by giving him an idea and then letting him express it in his own words. Actually God gives all the words himself. All the writer does is write what God tells him. His character, opinions, and personality have no bearing. He’s just the messenger. God gives the message, and God is the message!
Here is an example from Jeremiah, where God shows us exactly how it works. The text is concerning where Jeremiah has been dictating to Baruch the words of the Lord. Jeremiah is a type of the Holy Spirit who inspires the writer, Baruch, to record his words. The issue is how did the words come to be written.
Jer 36:17 And they asked Baruch, saying, Tell us now, How didst thou write all these words at his mouth?
18 Then Baruch answered them, He pronounced all these words unto me with his mouth, and I wrote them with ink in the book.
And this is how it works. Baruch is just a writer. He does nothing more than record the words. So his attitude, intention and opinion have nothing to do with what he writes. His social background, historical setting or linguistic patterns are only of minor interest.
It’s the same with any writer of the biblical books. They are just recording what God tells them to write. Seeking Jeremiah’s original intention makes no more sense that asking your computer the meaning of some document you downloaded. Or if you print a file off the internet, and are puzzled about some part of it, do you ask your inkjet printer what he had in mind? And if you really like what the file says, do you give the inkjet printer a pat on the back for doing a good job?
We don’t refer to the Bible as the word of Moses, Joshua, Samuel, David, Isaiah, Ezra, Ezekiel, Jeremiah, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Jonah, Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Paul, Peter, and others. We call it the Word of God. Let’s not forget that.
Systematic Theology
The quest for Systematic Theology follows right along after the Historical Approach. It is where scholars make their goal an attempt to explain the entire bible, a piece at a time and bring all of the elements into interpretative unity.
Consider this quote.
As students our task is to ascertain the meaning of Scripture by seeing each statement within its original social, linguistic, religious and political setting. We must then consider all other statements on the same subject, thus bringing all Scripture into an interpretive unity. And it will not matter whether we study the end times from Mathew 24, Ezekiel, Daniel or Revelation. If we understand any one of them correctly, all the others will tell the same story, although perhaps from a slightly different perspective. Ted Noel
Is there any scripture offered to support this? No. The Bible says:
Romans 11:33 … how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!
Here he is looking to ascertain the meaning of Scripture by academic methods, and bring it into interpretive unity. His final sentence here mentions correct understanding. The problem is the assumption that one can fully ascertain the meaning of scripture, and that once we understand a part correctly the others will fall into place. So eventually it’s possible to have a unified interpretation of the whole bible. All we have to do is figure out what each piece means and fit them together. There are at least two problems with this. One it assumes that the meaning of scripture can be found on the basis of study, without taking into account the guidance of the Spirit. See my articles The Dispute and Why You Can Never Agree for more on this topic.
Next it assumes that the scripture is two dimensional. Like the jigsaw puzzle analogy, just find where each belongs and soon you will have it all figured out. Truth is that there are multiple levels of meaning in God’s word. It’s not two dimensional at all. There are multiple meanings, multiple correct interpretations, and multiple fulfillments in lots of cases. Also look back at where he quotes Isaiah.
Isa 28:9 Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts.
10 For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little: KJV
Verse 9 tells us that He teaches doctrine and gives understanding. It does not come from our own efforts. And that he does this to those that are mature in the word, not babes. Verse 10 uses upon or on depending on the translation to show a method of learning. It suggest the idea of building or stacking things here and there. This goes against the image of the jigsaw puzzle, picturing things in three dimensions. When there are multiple meanings, then each revelation one receives can become the foundation for a new revelation. Each one building on the previous, yielding higher levels of understanding that could not be had directly. With the literal and historic approaches, there can be only one level of meaning. These approaches will never get you into the deeper things of the word.
Scripture Must Be Revealed To Us By God.
Let’s take a look at this example.
Mt 16:15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?
16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.
Ask yourself here about the method old Simon Peter uses in this passage. Did Jesus commend him for coming up with the right answer by saying Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona, for thou hast used the time tested literal hermeneutic? Or is it rather that Simon did not use any method at all. Simon Peter simply received a revelation.
Now here’s another interesting example.
2Ti 3:15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
Here it says scripture is given by inspiration. But it does not say who is given to. I believe we commonly assume it is given to the writer who records God’s word under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Verse 16 is however vague on this point, and deliberately so for this reason. It allows the possibility of a second meaning, an intentional double meaning. That is this: scripture is given by inspiration to the reader or listener. Verse 15 mentions that it is able to make one wise through faith. We know that faith comes by hearing the word of God. This is where the reader receives the word by inspiration. The word will only profit us when mixed with faith. Knowing the scriptures is one thing but hearing them with the spiritual ears of faith is revelation.
Here are some examples of cases were people clearly heard the word of God, and understood the literal meaning but at the same time were absolutely clueless as to what it all meant.
Mark 9:32 But they understood not that saying, and were afraid to ask Him.
Luke 2:50 And they understood not the saying which He spoke unto them.
Luke 9:45 But they understood not this saying, and it was hid from them, that they perceived it not; and they were afraid to ask Him about that saying.
Luke 18:34 And they understood none of these things; and this saying was hidden from them, neither knew they the things which were spoken.
John 10:6 This parable Jesus spoke unto them, but they understood not the things of which He spoke unto them.
John 16:
16 "A little while, and ye shall not see Me; and again a little while, and ye shall see Me, because I go to the Father."
17 Then said some of His disciples among themselves, "What is this that He saith unto us, `A little while, and ye shall not see Me; and again a little while, and ye shall see Me,' and, `because I go to the Father'?"
18 They said therefore, "What is this that He saith, `A little while'? We cannot tell what He saith."
They too knew their scriptures, and heard Jesus' words for themselves, yet could not come to any agreement on the meaning. Yet for them, there came a day when Jesus opened their understanding and explained the scriptures.
Lu 24:44 And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.
45 Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,
That day is coming for us, and soon.
God Reveals His Word
God Reveals His Word To Those Who Fear Him And Are Willing To Do His Will.
Ps 25:12 What man is he that feareth the LORD? him shall he teach in the way that he shall choose.
Joh 7:15 And the Jews marvelled, saying, How knoweth this man letters, having never learned?
16 Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me.
17 If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.
Summary
The Law Of Literalism says you can discover the meaning of scripture by sticking to the root literal meaning, but the scripture says the letter kills. It is the doling out of death.
Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.
But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away: (2 Corinthians 3:6-7)
Depending strictly on the letter of the law then becomes a covenant with death. The Spirit gives the Word and it’s the Spirit that must give it life.
The Law of Context says the meaning must be gathered from the context but the scripture says Spiritual things are Spiritually discerned.
1Co 2:13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
The Law Of Historical Research says you can discover the meaning of scripture by analyzing the historical, linguistic, social and cultural context and by considering the life and background of the individual writers but the scripture says:
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come. (John 16:13)
The Law of Systematic Theology says you can discover the meaning of scripture a bit at a time, and eventually fit all the pieces of the puzzle together into a unified interpretation, but the scripture says:
Job 37:23 Touching the Almighty, we cannot find him out: he is excellent in power, and in judgment, and in plenty of justice: he will not afflict.
Ro 11:33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!
A sacred cow is stubborn loyalty to an institution [or idea] that impedes progress. For every reason put forth to support these sacred cows, scripture teaches the opposite. It makes you wonder whether [one must conclude that] their purpose is to promote falsehood and prevent you from reaching correct conclusions. [Which is exactly correct.]
The root flaw in these and other sacred cows of bible study is in their fundamental approach which is to say "You can discover the meaning of God's Word, if you use this or these methods." The quest for an objective methodology is just another attempt to rely on self. Perhaps it’s job security for professional scholars. It still reminds me though of someplace where it says, “your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.”
You cannot discover the meaning of God's word.
I cannot discover the meaning of God's word.
Scripture says the Lord teaches it, and that only to the mature among us. Scripture must be revealed. God reveals himself to man, and that by degrees, here a little, there a little and so on.
Will you be content with man’s wisdom or will you Seek After Him?