The grammatical-historical method is an approach to interpretation that seeks to understand the original, literal meaning intended by the author by analyzing the text's grammar, vocabulary, and historical context. This method honors the principle that Scripture has one intended sense, which is consistent with the Reformational commitment to the plain, literal reading of the text.
The grammatical-historical method aligns with our confessional commitment that Scripture has one true and full sense—the literal or natural sense. As stated in the 1689 LBCF Ch.1 §9, the "infallible rule of interpretation of Scripture is the Scripture itself." This method rejects the idea that Scripture has manifold spiritual meanings hidden beneath the text; rather, the Holy Spirit intends one meaning, which is accessed through the careful study of the words and their context.
To interpret Scripture faithfully, the minister must employ the 'arts' that serve the Word. As noted in The Art of Prophesying — Chapter V, grammar is essential for understanding the languages in which the Bible was written, and history, geography, and chronology provide the necessary setting to understand the prophets, the apostles, and the historical books. These tools are the servants of theology; they allow us to see what the original author meant in his specific time and place, preventing us from imposing our own inventions upon the text.
The ultimate goal of this method is not academic vanity, but to 'rightly divide the word of truth' so that we may see the beauty of Christ. As we search the historical and grammatical details, we are pointing to the One who fulfills all the types and shadows of the Law. We must read with the same spirit as the Psalmist, who prayed, 'Teach me thy statutes' (Psalm 119:26). Our interpretation should always drive us toward faith in Christ, for whom we are more accepted and loved than we ever dared hope, despite our profound sinfulness.