In this weeks podcast episode I discuss effective bible study techniques and methodologies that help us to read and understand the Bible in its proper historical, cultural, literary and linguistic context. Here are the Key Concepts we discussed.

Biblical Interpretation and Context

• Discipleship: Emphasizes that learning is often more caught than taught, highlighting the importance of context in biblical preaching.
• Pericopes: Sections of Scripture read as lessons, derived from the Greek word meaning "section." Significant for understanding the oral tradition of Jesus' teachings before the gospels were written.

Examples of Pericopes in the Gospels

• Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7): Illustrates core teachings of Jesus.
• Instructions for Ministers (Matthew 10:5-42): Guidance for ministry.
• Parables of the Kingdom (Matthew 13:1-52): Illustrates the nature of God's kingdom.

The Bible's Purpose

• The Bible is not primarily about the individual; rather, it serves as God's self-revelation, showcasing His character and attributes. It is written "for" us but not directly "to" us.

Communication Styles

• God uses diverse genres to communicate: narrative history, poetry, laws, parables, and letters, ensuring effective transmission of His message across different human conditions.

Basic Principles of Interpretation

• - God’s Overall Plan: Spanning from creation to the consummation of redemption, demonstrating a cohesive narrative.

Understanding Background: Employ the "Five W’s" (Who, What, Where, When, Why) to grasp the context of biblical books.

• Exegesis and Hermeneutics
• Exegesis: Analytical study of biblical texts for interpretation.
• Hermeneutics: The science of interpreting texts accurately, avoiding eisegesis (reading into the text personal biases).

Importance of Context - Historical and cultural contexts are essential for accurate interpretation, ensuring that meanings align with the original audience's understanding.

Linguistic Nuances

• Different meanings of terms like "flesh" in Scripture illustrate the complexity of biblical language and the need for careful interpretation.

Thanks for listening to the Greater Works Discipleship Ministries broadcast. Our mission at Greater Works is to fulfill the Great Commission (Matt. 28:19) and the Great Commandment (Matt. 22:37) through the intentional education, equipping, and empowering of healthy disciples of Jesus the Christ.

For more information visit:

• Website: www.greaterworksdiscipleship.com -
• Discipleship Training: https://greaterworksdiscipleship.thinkific.com/ -
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