Differences In Bible Interpretation

Besides the general revelation of Himself through His creation, God has given special revelation to those created in His image, mankind. This revelation was with words that have meaning to communicate to man His message. This message was inspired by the Spirit of God working through the human authors whose recording He has preserved. God gave His Word to be understood as to His meaning and message and hence, He holds man accountable for what He has said. Understanding comes by means of the human effort to read and study as the Spirit's gives illumines the heart and mind. Differences in interpretation occur because of the human factor as all believers who are reading and studying the bible in their language have one and the same Spirit of God giving understanding. Differences in interpretation occur because of the method of bible study and interpretation. The literal, grammatical, historical approach to Scripture as the inerrant, infallible Word of God will give the reader and student the most consistent understanding of what God meant when He spoke. Failing to approach the Scriptures to learn what God has said without imposing preconceptions and presuppositions on the text will prove to be a cause of different interpretations. A brief review of the approach to Scripture taken by those who do not use the literal, grammatical, historical hermeneutic proves the case in point.