How to Read the Bible

It is a mistake

to look to the Bible

to close a discussion;

the Bible seeks

to open one.

- William Sloane Coffin

Once we have established that the Bible is utterly trustworthy, how do we approach it? Do we read it in a special way? The answer to this is both yes and no! Yes, we apply the standard interpretation of any literary document by paying attention to the word selection, type of literature, and historical context. Yet, we must also exercise far greater trust in the truthfulness of what is written. The best technique is to blend the ordinary reading of literature with a special reverence and respect.

When we read the Bible, we should approach it in several ways.

1. The Bible should be read for the most obvious and immediate meaning in the text. Answering the questions of who, what, when, where, and how helps us to find our bearings. It's essential to clearly define what the original author meant at the time the words were penned and how his audience would have perceived his words. These things should guide all contemporary interpretation of the passage. 

2. The Bible should be read in the context of other passages of Scripture. We should acquire a habit of comparing a passage with others on the same topic. This gives us perspective. Without the wisdom of the whole Bible, it's easy to misunderstand what is meant by a single passage. By setting a passage against the backdrop of other passages, the story of the Bible as a whole is kept in mind, and ultimately this clarifies the meaning for us.

3. The Bible should be read as part of a conversation with other believers. Many wise men and women have wrestled earnestly with issues of interpretation and theology. Their discoveries can illuminate our understanding. We should read with an awareness of the ongoing witness of the church and consult reliable commentaries to inform our personal discovery process.

4. It's also important to read the Bible with the heart -- to "listen" to Scripture with the soul yielded and still, asking questions like, "What does this mean for me? How should it change me -- the way I think and the way I live?" It's important to reflect on a passage, pray for insight, and try to apply what is revealed from meditating on it. 

Reading with the heart is simple but life-changing. In it, we look to God to reveal the truth to us and to transform us with it. Once we have set up appropriate context and boundaries for interpretation, we can turn to God in a very simple and childlike manner, asking him how we can apply what we have learned, and knowing he will surely answer us, since he loves us and wants us to become mature.

Do you have a favorite Bible? Or a favorite Bible study book? Why is it your favorite?