by David Shepardson

Created on: February 27, 2007   Last Updated: May 11, 2007

The Bible is unique in that there are 40 authors spanning 1,500 years. It is a book, like any book, in that has a beginning, middle and end. If it is to have credibility in must be consistent. If there are contradictions then the whole thing must be discarded. But that's why biblical interpretation is relatively easy. If read literally, in context, using itself to interpret hard to understand or confusing passages you'll get the correct answer. Don't read a verse by itself without reading the whole passage. Verses weren't added until the Bible was made available to the masses. You wouldn't read a sentence out of a novel and try and give the author's interpretation solely based on a single sentence.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof (criticism for a fault), for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.

2 Timothy 2:14-15 Remind them of these things, and solemnly charge them in the presence of God not to wrangle about words, which is useless, and leads to the ruin of the hearers. Be diligent (study) to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth.

Romans 15:4-6 For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus; that with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Peter 1:20-21 But know this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one's own interpretation, for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.

Think about trying to get 40 authors of the same socioeconomic background and age to agree on any given subject. Now think about 40 authors of every background and age to agree to everything as it pertains to God in the Bible. Try and find any other writings on what ever god you chose to do that!

The Bible isn't subject to personal or group interpretation. The Bible interprets itself.

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