A Note on Biblical Interpretation and Application

H.M. Coker

29 Sep, 2023

A Note on Biblical Interpretation and Application

A Note on Biblical Interpretation and Application

Inductive study involves observation (what does the text say?), interpretation (what does the text mean?), and application (what do I do with it?).  Each of these build upon each other.  Biblical application requires accurate interpretation, which requires observation of the Bible. 

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16).   We are instructed to be doers of the Word and not hearers only (James 1:22-25).  We are to apply the Word–live according to It.  However, before jumping into application you must first diligently seek to interpret Scripture correctly.  Just imagine if you took 2 Timothy 4:13 out of context; you might choose to believe Paul was instructing you to build a time machine, travel to Troas, and bring him the things he had left with some person named Carpus.  (I made you smile, didn’t I?)   In 2 Timothy 2:15 we are instructed to accurately handle the Word of truth.  Remember that no Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation for no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit (2 Peter 1:20-21).  Therefore, the best interpreter of Scripture, is Scripture. 

Before applying the Word, be diligent to accurately interpret the text by completing three checks:

  • 1. Do I understand the meanings of the words as the author intended them? (Check other good translations or Word study books like the Strong’s Concordance to understand the meaning of the original Greek or Hebrew words as they were used by the author)
  • 2. What is the context of the verse within the book? (what comes before it and what comes after it)
  • 3. Does it line up with what the rest of Scripture says? (the Bible will never contradict itself)

Let’s practice this together.  Philippians 1:29-30 says, “For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in Him but also suffer for His sake.”  Our goal is to apply this passage to our lives, but first we must seek to accurately interpret the text.  One question of interpretation might be: “To whom has it been granted to not only believe but also to suffer for Christ’s sake?”

First, let’s make sure we understand what these words mean.  “Granted” comes from the Greek word “charizomai,” which means to grant as a favor, to freely give.  “Believe” comes from the Greek word “pisteuo,” which means to have faith, to trust.  Suffer comes from the Greek word “pascho,” which means to experience a painful sensation or impression.1

Second look at the context of the book.  This is a letter written to believers; are you a believer?  Then the truths given to the Philippians as Believers, are given to you as well.

But could it be that the suffering mentioned in 1:29-30 is meant for the Philippian believers only and not to you specifically?  To answer that, use your third check and look at how the verse fits into the whole of Scripture.  Cross reference it with 2 Timothy 3:12 which says, “Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.

So now you know three steps to use in Biblical interpretation; and this brings me to my final two steps in interpretation

  • 4. Be humble.  As you grow in maturity, you may—you will— learn where your thinking is wrong.  The Holy Spirit is your teacher (John 14:26), the Lord will give you understanding (2 Timothy 2:7).  He corrects our errors (Philippians 3:15) as He transforms us into the image of His Son from one degree of glory to another (2 Corinthians 3:18).  Be willing to change your mind to align your thinking with Scripture.   Reject your own mind and your own traditions, stand with Scripture.
  • 5. Be courageous.  If you are interpreting Scripture with Scripture and someone challenges it with man’s tradition or even church history, always stand with Scripture.  Do not be intimidated.  God chose what is foolish or dull in the world to shame the wise (1 Corinthians 1:27).  Do not be a child tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, grow up in every way into Christ.  (Ephesians 4:14-15).

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling to Word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15).  He Who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:6).  Study on!

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*All Bible quotations are taken from the ESV unless otherwise stated.

  1. Daily Bible Apps. “KJV Bible with Strong’s.” Google Play Store, (2022). (accessed on 26 September 2023).