Unit 7:1 Study Lesson

Earlier in the course we outlined our basic approach to reading, interpreting, and applying the Scriptures—to grasping God’s Word. We begin by reading carefully to determine the meaning for the biblical audience. Next we identify the river of barriers that separates us from the biblical audience. Then we derive a theological principle from the text and cross over the river on that principlizing bridge. We ask how that theological principle fits with the rest of the Bible. Finally, we apply that principle to our specific life situation.

However, there are some fundamental questions that we need to answer before we get too far into the Interpretive Journey. These questions will have a profound effect on how we actually implement that journey. The most important question is this: What is meaning, and who controls it, the author or the reader? This unit will address this basic issue.