Exegesis: The Right Interpretation

Taken from https://memegenerator.net 

Exegesis (n.) - An explanation or critical interpretation of a text, especially of scripture.

The Bible is not just an ordinary book. It's a book that is filled with stories, wisdom, values, teachings and revelations.

Known to be sacred, the Bible holds the story of a God who became Man to redeem the world from sin.

Throughout the years, the Bible has become a topic that is widely debated by people worldwide. You would see videos in youtube that show (most of the time) an atheist or agnostic against a teacher of the faith. 

So, the question is, "Why? Why do people conduct debates over the Bible?"

The answer is simple: People want to know the truth. 

2,000 years ago, a famous man asked this question to a Man who was brought before him by his people:

"What is truth?" - Pontius Pilate, John 18:38

This question has resounded throughout history. Philosophers gave their answers and most of them gave different interpretations to its meaning. 

Truth. Simple yet profound.

Understanding the Bible requires a thorough study of the scriptures. This is done by exegeting the scriptures and by studying the following:

A. Historico-Cultural Aspect

This aspect tells us the history of the text. It takes us back to the time it was written and it lets us see how the culture was before. Every culture is different. Studying this will give us a clear understanding of the text's origin. 

B. Logical-Syntactical Aspect

This aspect shows us the importance of the words that were used in the text. Nouns and verbs play a vital role in understanding the message of the writer. The Old Testament is written in Hebrew, while the New Testament is written in Greek. Some words from the Hebrew and Greek language have no definite translation. Some words can only be used when it is partnered to a specific subject. 

C. Theological-Canonical Aspect

This aspect shows us the different theological concepts. It also leads to questions like, "Does this verse contradict with the other verse? Are they connected? Related? Different?" 

D. Literary Aspect

This aspect shows us the genre of the scriptures. Knowing the genres will help us classify the scriptures to its rightful place. The genres are the following: Narrative, Poetry, Wisdom, Prophecy, Gospels, Epistles and Apocalypse.

Proper interpretation of the scriptures will help us know the Bible more. 

Will it raise more questions? Yes.

Will it answer questions? Yes.

Our pastor said, "When you read the scriptures, you're looking at the answers. You just have to ask the right questions."