Remember: the Holy Spirit supernaturally illuminates the redeemed to be able to understand the Bible (1 Corinthians2:14), but we remain responsible to interpret it accurately (2 Timothy 2:15). Here are the next two of eight principles of biblical interpretation.
3. Grammatico-Historical Method. Because the Bible was written long ago in another culture and in a language other than 21st century American English, we must seek to understand what the words in a passage meant to those who wrote them in their historical setting. We must not interpret scripture based on modern usage of words or modern culture.
For example: When Jesus pronounced several “woes” on the Pharisees in Luke 11, we must understand the term “woe” in the setting in which Jesus used it, rather than as we might use it today. To us, “woe” is a term used to describe sorrow. When a Biblical prophet used the term “woe,” he was pronouncing the strongest form of denunciation or curse.
Paul’s many references to circumcision are confusing and embarrassing to many modern readers, but in Paul’s time circumcision was vitally important and understood within a religious, rather than a medical or private, context.
Even words in older English translations can be misleading. When the King James Bible was translated in 1611, the word “rent” meant something different from what it means to people today. To us it means use for a price. To them it meant tear or rip. So when we read, “he rent his coat in twain,” we should not think he was using his clothing for a price, but instead, that he tore his coat in two.
4. Progressive Revelation. The writers and characters in the earliest writings did not know what God would reveal later in history. More details of God’s grace were known to Paul than to Abraham, for instance. As God revealed more of Himself and His plan for His people, the picture became clearer. Therefore, while not discounting the revelation of God in the Old Testament, we must give special attention to how the later pieces of God’s revelation complete the earlier pieces. The New Testament provides commentary on the Old Testament.
For example: Genesis 4 does not make it clear what made Abel’s sacrifice acceptable and Cain’s unacceptable. Hebrews 11:4 clarifies it, saying the issue was faith.
King David had many wives. Though God allowed it, in the New Testament it is clear that God’s plan since creation was for a man to have only one wife (Matthew 19:1-8).