Hermeneutics 2

2-Seek a personal relationship with the God who gave the Bible and verifies its truth. The Bible is like other books but not completely so. As noted above, it is God's Word. It is holy, meaning it is distinct and set apart from other literature. It not only informs but makes readers who are willing submissive to its message "wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus" (2 Tim. 3:15)

One of Africa's earliest converts to the Christian Faith was baffled by a passage from Is. 53 (Acts 8:30-35). The early evangelist Philip was sent to aid his reading. He began with the problem verses, then "told" him the good news about Jesus" (vs. 35). Then the Ethiopian understood. He was baptized and became a follower of Jesus and "went on his way rejoicing" (v. 39). Scripture had presented him with a problem, which called for understanding that would lead to a personal encounter with the God who gave Scripture. 

Much in the Bible is clear to the well intentioned, literate reader who employs reasonable means to understand it. This is what we mean when we speak of the perspicuity of Scripture. But its deepest aim is to bring readers to the saving knowledge of God, and His Gospel is clear to any who approach the text honestly and in humility. Within this personal relationship, established by God's Spirit through the gospel, gratifying and increasing understanding of Scripture is ensured.