The following article is one in a series on how we should study the Bible.

That’s Your Interpretation

I don’t know how many times I’ve heard someone say, “That’s just your interpretation” during a discussion or debate about theology or the Bible.  The statement usually occurs when I try to establish a point by referring to a particular passage of scripture (See the article Why We Can Trust the Bible).  It seems to be the favorite fallback position when all logical arguments are exhausted.

“Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine…”
(2 Timothy 4:2-3)

It’s dark outside. I look through my office window into the courtyard outside. The absence of light makes it difficult to distinguish objects there. They are, of course, still where they were this morning. The darkness has not removed the trees and benches. I just cannot discern enough detail to accurately identify each one.