How We Interpret The Bible
The general principle adhered to throughout is that of literalizing instead of spiritualizing. Statements of fact and historical accounts are accepted as such. The rule observed is: Take the Bible literally wherein it is at all possible; if symbolic, figurative or typical language is used, then look for the literal truth it intends to convey. Novel interpretations have been rejected, and theories supported by personal opinion alone, human reasoning and philosophies have been laid aside. In this way, the Word of truth can truly be "rightly divided" (2 Tim.2:15); and the Holy Bible read in perfect harmony throughout.
Twelve Rules of Interpretation
1. Learn the native tongue in which one reads his Bible. For example, master the English language if the English Bible is to be used.
2. Give the same literal meanings to words, and apply to the Bible the same rules of grammar, figures of speech, types, symbols, allegories, parables, poetry, prophecy, history, and all other forms of human expression that you would if they were found outside the Bible.
3. Learn the Bible manners, customs, and peculiar idioms (these will be found in the notes of this Bible).
4. Get acquainted with the geography of all Bible lands.
5. Get a general knowledge of the history of the biblical peoples and kingdoms so as to understand biblical history.
6. Get a general knowledge of the plan of God in the Bible-of the ages and dispensations and the ultimate purpose of God to defeat Satan, restore man's dominion, rid the earth of all rebellion, and establish an eternal kingdom on earth ruled by God, Christ, and the resurrected saints (Genesis 8:22; Genesis 9:12; Isaiah 9:6-7; Luke 1:32-33; Rev. 11:15; Rev. 20:1-10; Rev. 22:4-5).
7. Recognize the three classes of people dealt with in Scripture-the Jews, Gentiles, and the church (1 Cor. 10:32).
8. Keep in mind the historical background of each book and the circumstances under which it was written.
9. Never change the literal meaning of Scripture to a spiritual, mystical, symbolic, or figurative meaning unless it is done by God Himself. Take everything in the Bible literally unless this could not possibly be the meaning. When the language is used in a figurative sense get the literal truth conveyed by it.
10. Get a complete concordance such as Strong's and Young's to look up any subject and to define any Hebrew or Greek word if there is any question of proper translation.
11. Be just as intelligent and fair with the Bible as with any other book. Study it, not to disprove it, but to master its sacred contents and conform to its teachings and you will find it to be in unity.
12. It must be settled once and forever that the Bible does not contradict itself and all scriptures on a subject must be harmonized. It has a way of confusing its enemies and blessing its friends. The only thing difficult about the Bible is that it is a very large book and it will take time to master its contents enough to get a general understanding of it. Read it over and over and practice its teachings and it will soon become a very simple and practical book.
