What do you do when you read the Bible and find yourself baffled?
First, you should know that you’re not alone. Understanding the Bible can be difficult.
Here are four ways you can gain clarity.
What if you come across an apparent contradiction in the Bible?
A great rule of thumb is to let the Bible interpret the Bible. Look for clarity by reading other passages on the same subject.
Ask: Do I have enough information and a good enough understanding of that information to reasonably say that I have found a true inconsistency? As you spend time rereading, thoughtfully reflecting, asking the Holy Spirit to help guide you and discussing the issue with others who are well-versed in the Bible, you will often come to understand the consistency beneath the apparent conflict.
What if you read something that challenges a belief or attitude you currently hold?
Ask: Is the Bible prescribing (“Do this” or “Don’t do this”) or merely describing (“Here is what happened”) this belief, attitude or practice? If the latter, we have no problem. If the former, we must be willing to let the Bible challenge and correct us.
Take next steps toward understanding the Bible with A Quick Lesson on How to Study the Bible and How to Be Successful in Studying the Bible.
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