The opposing doctrines of mainline denominations, the ritualistic practices of Catholicism, the aberrant theology of cults (including Mormons, Seventh-Day Adventists, and Jehovah's Witnesses) ... and an individual's personal convictions all hinge on how the Word of God is interpreted.
Exegesis and Eisegesis are two conflicting approaches to Bible study.
'Exegesis' is the exposition or explanation of Scripture based on careful, objective analysis. The interpreter comes to his conclusions by 'following' the text where it leads.
'Eisegesis' is a subjective, non-analytical approach. The interpreter starts with his own precepts and then manipulates Scripture to defend them. He forces the Word to 'follow' him.
To discover the true meaning of a passage, one must be disciplined. By respecting grammar, syntax, and setting ... we can understand the intended meaning and its application. (It also keeps us from falling prey to false belief systems)
Present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15
2. Interpretation: what does the passage mean?
3. Correlation: how does the passage relate to the rest of the Bible?
4. Application: how should this passage affect my life?
2. Exploration: what passage seems to fit with my idea?
3. Application: what effect does my idea have?
For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12
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