How to Interpret the Bible
Last updated: 2026-04-10
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 Principle of the Literal Sense
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.
Sources: 1689 LBCF Ch.1 §9
🖋️ Grammar, History, and the Teacher's Task
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.
Sources: The Art of Prophesying — Chapter V
✝️ The Gospel Goal of Interpretation
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.
Sources: 2 Timothy 2:15 · Psalm 119:26
To interpret difficult passages, one must compare them with clearer parts of Scripture, observe the immediate context, and utilize the original languages, all while ensuring the resulting doctrine aligns with the analogy of faith—the consistent witness of the entire Bible.
📖 Scripture Interprets Scripture
The primary rule for understanding any passage that is not plain is to consult other, clearer portions of Scripture that treat the same subject. The 1689 LBCF Ch.1 §9 affirms that the infallible rule of interpretation is the Scripture itself. We are not to treat Scripture as having a manifold, hidden, or allegorical meaning, but rather one intended sense that is best illuminated by comparing parallel texts. As Augustine noted in his work on Christian doctrine, we should consult the rule of faith gathered from the plainer passages to remove ambiguity, ensuring that our conclusion never contradicts the general tenor of the gospel.
Sources: 1689 LBCF Ch.1 §9
🔍 Observing Context and Purpose
Difficult passages must be anchored in their original context. As taught in The Art of Prophesying — Chapter IV, a text taken out of context can be made to support almost any error. The interpreter must observe the scope and purpose of the book, the historical setting, and the logical argument of the author. We must distinguish between doctrinal and historical passages, and remember that our use of logic and grammar are servants to theology, not masters. If a passage seems to demand a crime or forbid a virtue, we are to read it figuratively in a way that establishes the reign of love, always pointing back to the grace found in Christ.
Sources: The Art of Prophesying — Chapter IV
🕊️ The Role of the Holy Spirit
While we utilize study, logic, and history, we must humbly acknowledge that the Holy Spirit is the supreme interpreter. Scripture is to be read with a desire to know and obey the will of God, accompanied by prayer. As noted in the Westminster Larger Catechism Q.157, we must read with the firm persuasion that the Holy Spirit alone enables us to understand the truth. We are reminded by the Apostle: "But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him; and he cannot know them, because they are spiritually judged." (1 Corinthians 2:14). Our study must ultimately lead us to Christ, who is the heart of all Scripture.
Sources: 1 Corinthians 2:14 · Westminster Larger Catechism Q.157
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