Knowing This First

All Scripture interprets itself:

1. In the verse:
   • Right where it is written.
   • A word or words must be interpreted according to Biblical usage.
   • The words must be in harmony with the verse as well as with all the scriptures relating to the subject.
   • Scripture buildup; narrative development.
2. In the context.
3. Used before.

Biblical truths we must adhere to as workmen:

1. It is necessary to identify to whom a Scripture is addressed and to be aware of the administration in which or about which they are written. It is necessary to identify to whom a Scripture is addressed and to be aware of the administration in which or about which they are written.
2. We must make a distinction where God makes a difference.
3. Difficult verses must be understood in light of the clear verses.
4. Interpretation and application must always take into account “to whom” it is addressed.
5. When we do not know how a verse interprets itself without being contradictory to other verses, we must admit it and hold that verse in abeyance until such a time as we can understand how it fits with the rest of the Scripture.

Seven steps to Biblical accuracy:

1. The individual word must be understood.
2. The words must fit in the verse.
3. The verse must fit with the immediate context.
4. The immediate context must flow with the remote context.
5. The words must be understood in light of to whom it is written.
6. The words must be understood in light of orientalisms, customs, and mannerisms.
7. The words must be understood in light of figures of speech.

Reading for understanding:

Ask yourself, "What is this verse saying?" To better understand what it is saying, ask yourself five other questions.

1. What is it not saying?
2. What is the opposite of what it is saying?
3. What is unusual about the way in which it is said?
4. What did it mean to the believers "to whom" it is addressed?
5. What does it mean to the believers today?