Go to Study Guide: How to Study the Bible, by Jeffrey Bruce and Brian D. Asbill
Author’s Preface
by Jeffrey Bruce
As I have studied at Biola, it has become apparent to me both cognitively and experientially that correct application of the Bible comes only through correct interpretation. While this might seem axiomatic, it is disturbing as to how often I failed to grasp this simple truth in the past.
So often growing up, I absolutized certain parts of the Bible, ripping them from their literary and historical contexts, and then conjuring up applications quite foreign to what the author probably ever intended. This is not to say that I always misread the message of the Bible, or even that my applications were not doctrinally sound.
It is to say, however, that my applications lacked the richness and relevance that only come through correct interpretation. My spiritual life was surviving on but a few disparate parts of scripture, and not on the whole counsel of God. This I think is a terrible tragedy.
Because I am aware of the pitfalls of incorrect interpretation, as well as the blessings of correct interpretation, I feel obliged to teach this class on Hermeneutics so that correct interpretation of God’s word will be furthered at Creekside Church.
While it might seem presumptuous (and even arrogant) to say that those taking this class need to learn how to study the Bible better, my goal is not to make you feel bad, or subsume all of you under me as your interpretive inferiors! I simply wish to communicate principles that will aid in reading almost anything, but are especially important in regards to the Bible, since this is the source of all things pertaining to life and godliness.
May this class create a passion in you for reading the Bible, and as you understand the Scripture in its original context, may you desire to apply it more thoroughly and hence become more conformed to the image of Christ.
In regards to the format of this course, the first half (roughly) will be spent in better understanding the need for hermeneutics, basic principles of interpretation, and tools to help you in studying the Bible.
The second half will deal with the various genres of the Bible, helping one to apply the already learned biblical principles in specific situations. Each lesson will include brief case studies, where we take the material learned and observe how it is fleshed out practically. Hopefully these will facilitate understanding by helping to put the theoretical in a more tangible context.
I must end by thanking Dr. Walt Russell for teaching me how to correctly interpret scripture, which he did with scholarly precision and pastoral sensitivity. Many of the diagrams and illustrations I use are taken directly from his course pack.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey Bruce
April 2005
Go to Study Guide: How to Study the Bible, by Jeffrey Bruce and Brian D. Asbill
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Series:
Author’s Preface by Jeffrey Bruce
Study Guide: How to Study the Bible, by Jeffrey Bruce and Brian D. Asbill
- Module 01 Hermeneutics – The What and the Why
- Module 02 Worldviews and the Battle for Meaning
- Module 03 Context, Context, Context!
- Module 04 Tools to Help You Along the Way
- Module 05 Genre Studies – An Introduction
- Module 06 OT Genre Studies 1: Narrative and Law
- Module 07 OT Genre Studies 2: Wisdom and Prophecy
- Module 08 NT Genre Studies 1: Gospels and Acts
- Module 09 NT Genre Studies 2: Epistles and Revelation
- Module 10 Application
