The Power of Context in Biblical Understanding

Context is Key

"I'm sorry" and "I apologize" mean the same thing, until you go to a funeral.

I love this statement because it shows the importance of context, and is funny. But just as context is essential in there, understanding the context of the Bible is crucial for gaining a deeper appreciation of its teachings. Understanding context, the who, what, where, when, and why of each book of the Bible, has a profound impact on our interpretation of scripture, and how it can lead us to a richer, more authentic understanding of the Bible.

The Significance of Context:

Few things have had a more profound impact on my faith journey than understanding the importance of context when studying the Bible. It's remarkably easy to pluck a verse or passage out of its original context and misinterpret its meaning. To truly grasp the truth of the Bible, we must investigate who wrote it, its intended audience, when it was written, and the purpose behind its writing.

The book of Ezekiel, initially perplexing, serves as an excellent example of how context can transform our comprehension. If one were to flip open to a random passage in Ezekiel, confusion would abound. But by understanding the author's identity, the historical period, and the underlying purpose of the text, the seemingly cryptic passages begin to make sense. Incorporating knowledge of ancient prophetic literature and the messianic Jewish apocalyptic expectations of that era shed light on the text's intended meaning. Ezekiel was simply following a structure that was normal in his day. Unlocking the context of the book provides a key to its interpretation.

Relevance to Modern Faith:

It's essential to emphasize that considering context doesn't diminish the Bible's contemporary relevance or the inspiration that can be drawn from it. Instead, it helps prevent misinterpretations rooted in a modern Western worldview. Context allows us to bridge the gap between the historical and cultural distance that separates us from the Bible's original audience.

The encouraging aspect is that it's never been easier to access information on biblical context. Gone are the days when one needed a library of encyclopedias or a theology doctorate. Today, numerous online resources and books are readily available to aid in understanding the historical and cultural context of the Bible. Two resources in particular that are incredibly helpful in establishing context are: The Apocalyptic Gospel Podcast and The Gospel of Christ Crucified by John P Harrigan.

To properly understand the Bible, we must shift our perspective. Rather than reading it through a 21st-century Western Christian lens, we should ask ourselves, "What would a first-century Jew be thinking about this passage?" or "How would the disciples of Jesus understand this?" By doing so, we open the door to a more authentic understanding of the scripture.