How to Understand the Bible “Interpret the Bible with Jesus in Mind”

Scripture Reading:  Luke 24:13-34

Memory Verse: “Give me understanding, so that I may keep your law and obey it with all my heart.”  Psalm 119:34

Biblical Interpretation is the journey of discovering Jesus in God’s story!

1.  Biblical Interpretation is an ongoing dialogue in community with others on the journey! Verses 13-15

• Some are believers
  
• Some are not believers
  
• Everyone is at a different point
  

2.  Biblical interpretation requires dealing with the issues which keep us from recognizing Jesus! Verse 16

• Sin
  
• Separation from the community or the Word
  
• Silence: No willingness to discuss or interact with what is revealed.
  

3.  Biblical interpretation is impossible without Jesus’ own self-disclosure! Verse 17-24, verse 45

• The key part of proper interpretation is that we read with the Salvation Story in mind.
  
• The Bible is leading us to the life, death, and resurrection, showing us those events, or sending us forth from those events!
  
• The Bible testifies to itself: Read Scripture to understand Scripture. 
  

4.  Biblical interpretation is most effective when done as an act of worship whether formally or informally, corporately or individually!

• Scripture study furthers the desire to fellowship with Jesus. Verse 29
  
• Scripture study in conjunction with other acts of worship prepares the follower to hear from Jesus! Verse 30
  
• Scripture study warms our hearts with the warming words of Jesus today! Verse 32
  
• Scripture study motivates our evangelistic mission to those who do not yet believe! Verses 33-34
  

So What?

• Study the Bible together
  
• Study repentantly
  
• Study with Jesus in mind
  
• Study Scripture in light of Scripture
  
• Study as an act of worship