1. The Bible Is the Final Authority
Before we can understand Scripture rightly, we need to settle one thing: the Bible is God’s Word. It is completely true, without error, and is our ultimate authority in all matters of faith and life.
“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” — 2 Timothy 3:16
This means we don’t read the Bible like we would any other book. It’s not just a collection of stories or wise sayings—it’s divine revelation. That’s why it’s so important to interpret it faithfully and not twist its meaning to fit personal opinions or modern trends.
2. The Whole Bible Points to Jesus
One of the most exciting aspects of reading Scripture is realizing that all of it—from Genesis to Revelation—is about Jesus Christ.
After His resurrection, Jesus explained this to His disciples:
“And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.” — Luke 24:27
This means that when we read the Old Testament, we should always ask, “How does this point to Christ?” The sacrificial system? It foreshadows Jesus, the Lamb of God. The kings? They point to Jesus, the true King. The prophets? They speak of the coming Savior.
A christ-centered approach helps us see that the Bible isn’t just a collection of moral lessons—it’s the unfolding story of God’s redemption through Christ!
3. Scripture Interprets Scripture
One of the best ways to understand a difficult Bible passage is by using other parts of Scripture. This is called the “analogy of faith,” and it keeps us from interpreting verses in isolation.
For example, if one passage seems unclear, we look at other verses that speak on the same topic to get the full picture. A great example is salvation:
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.” — Ephesians 2:8
If someone thought they could earn salvation by works, we could compare this verse with others—like Romans 3:28—to clarify that salvation is by faith alone.
Scripture never contradicts itself. When something seems unclear, we let the Bible explain itself.
4. Read the Bible in Its Proper Context
The Bible contains different types of literature—historical accounts, poetry, prophecy, letters, and more. We need to read each section according to its genre.
- Historical Books (Genesis, Exodus, Acts) should be read as real events.
- Poetry (Psalms, Song of Solomon) often uses imagery and symbolism.
- Parables (Jesus’ teachings) illustrate truths but aren’t literal events.
- Prophecy often has both immediate and future fulfillment.
For example, when Jesus says, “I am the door” (John 10:9), He’s not saying He’s made of wood and hinges. It’s a metaphor for Him being the way to salvation. Reading in context helps us avoid misunderstandings!
5. The Bible Reveals God’s Plan Over Time
God didn’t reveal everything at once. Instead, He progressively made His plan clearer throughout history. The Old Testament lays the foundation, while the New Testament brings the fulfillment.
Think of it like watching a movie. The first half introduces the characters and the problem, and the second half reveals the solution. The Old Testament shows our need for a Savior, and the New Testament reveals Jesus as that Savior.
“Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son.” — Hebrews 1:1-2
By reading Scripture with this in mind, we can see how God’s redemptive plan unfolds from beginning to end.
6. The Bible Tells One Unified Story
The Bible isn’t just a random collection of books—it’s a single, grand narrative of God redeeming His people. This is called the redemptive-historical approach, meaning we read every passage in light of God’s ultimate plan of salvation.
Think of it like a book series where each installment builds toward the climax. If you skip to the end without understanding what came before, you miss the full impact. That’s why reading the whole Bible is so important!
7. Let the Clear Teach the Unclear
Some Bible passages are hard to understand. Instead of making assumptions, we interpret difficult verses by looking at the ones that are clear.
For example, James 2:24 says:
“You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone.”
At first glance, this seems to contradict Paul’s teaching that we are saved by faith, not works. But when we compare it to Ephesians 2:8-9, we see that James isn’t saying we earn salvation—he’s saying true faith produces good works.
When in doubt, let the clear passages guide you!
8. Consider the Historical and Cultural Context
The Bible was written in a specific time, place, and culture. Understanding the background helps us interpret it correctly.
For example, when Paul talks about head coverings in 1 Corinthians 11, he’s addressing a cultural issue of that time. The principle behind it—honoring God’s order in worship—still applies, but the cultural expression may look different today.
By learning the historical context, we avoid misinterpreting Scripture or applying it incorrectly.
9. The Holy Spirit Helps Us Understand
Even with the best study methods, we need the Holy Spirit to illuminate Scripture and apply it to our hearts.
“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.” — John 14:26
This is why we should always pray before reading the Bible. We’re not just seeking knowledge—we’re seeking God Himself.
10. The Bible Is Sufficient
Finally, Scripture is enough. It gives us everything we need for faith and life.
“His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence.” — 2 Peter 1:3
We don’t need new revelations or extra teachings outside of God’s Word. The Bible is complete and fully equips us to live for Christ.
Final Thoughts
Studying the Bible doesn’t have to be intimidating. By following these principles, we can read Scripture faithfully, see Christ more clearly, and grow in our faith.
So, as you open your Bible today, remember: it’s God’s Word, it’s all about Jesus, and it’s meant to transform your life. Approach it with prayer, excitement, and a heart ready to learn!
