The Benefits of Using Correct Hermeneutics in Bible Study.
"Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15). The word translated "study" comes from the original Greek word meaning "to hasten, make haste, to exert one's self, endeavor, or give diligence." While the best definition involves diligence of effort, this passage is concerned with the urgency of Timothy's work with the word of God. The urgency for studying God's word is as important today as it ever has been. Too many people let others to the studying for them. It is vital that our faith rests with the inspired word of God. To gain the knowledge that we need, we must continue in faithful Bible study.
Bible study can be the richest experience of one's life, or it can prove to be extremely frustrating. One reason some have trouble understanding the word of God is that they fail to make the proper distinction in Scripture. In other words, they fail to use proper hermeneutics in studying the Bible. In this paper, I will attempt to outline some of the benefits of using correct hermeneutics in a Bible Study. .
First, however, let us review a couple important definitions. Exegesis deals with what a scriptural text meant to its author and intended reader in their socio-cultural context. In other words, reading out of the Bible what it says. Hermeneutics, a pseudo-science, involves the interpretation of a scriptural text to provide meaning for the present-day world. Keep in mind that the explication or the interpretation of a text in isolation from its cultural and literary context leads to distorted, and sometimes harmful, results. At the very least it does violence to the text. .
One benefit of proper hermeneutics in a Bible study is that the student will experience spiritual growth and development. An examination of 2 Peter 1:5-11 we see how the Christian is supposed to grow.