One question I get asked from time to time is this: how do we accurately interpret the Bible? This is a huge question.  There are obviously many different views of many different passages of Scripture, so it is important to have a healthy method of Bible interpretation.  There are many applications of a biblical text, but one interpretation.  That said, here is a good place to start.

- Understand the specific words. God communicates to us through the written word. Begin there. What do the specific words mean and how they are used? What did those specific words mean to the original hearers? What does the normal and literal reading mean?

- Understand the text around the specific words. Go beyond the sentence, but back it up and look at the paragraph, the chapter, the section, and the book. What is the point of the overall passage?

- Understand cross references about the specific words. What does the rest of the Bible have to say about the subject you are studying? Are there other passages that might shed light and clarity on the passage you are reading? This is a great place to use your concordance.

- Understand the progressive revelation of the Bible. Where is the passage you are studying? Is it before the cross or after it? Is it written to Israel or to the church? Is it Old Testament law or New Testament teaching?

These simple questions should help you get a good start to Bible reading and study. Most of the questions and criticisms people levy against the Bible can be answered with a method of study like this one. Additionally, most strange doctrines can be avoided with this method as well.

Nate