How to Interpret the Bible

by James M. Efird

Book Overview

James Efird examines various methods of biblical interpretation, emphasizing the strengths and weaknesses of each. His insights result in a presentation that enables ministers, students, and lay readers to grasp the meaning of the books of the Bible. He focuses on the ""original meaning of Scripture,"" i.e., who wrote it, when, where, and for whom. Approaching the Bible from its original context is a very helpful method for understanding and relating...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1579106323
• ISBN13: 9781579106324
• Release Date: June 2000
• Publisher: Wipf & Stock Publishers
• Length: 142 Pages
• Weight: 0.78 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 5.8" x 8.3"

Customer Reviews

Tradition or Truth ... you be the judge

Scholars have argued for centuries on the meaning of Jesus' life on earth and his message of the kingdom of God. Some have argued that so many layers of traditions have found their way into the Gospels that it is impossible to sort out which were originally from Jesus. Some believe that the New Testament was probably written one or more generations after the one that personally knew Jesus. All of the original copies of the New Testament have been lost, but two of the oldest known Bibles, dating from the fourth century C.E., were preserved because they were written on vellum -- or animal skins, as opposed to papyrus. Important differences had evolved between these fourth century C.E. Bibles, and more later versions--such as the King James/Catholic versions of the Bible. Despite the problem of not having the original writings of the New Testament, there are methods which can test whether any "changes" or revisions were later made in them that affected the Bibles that have came down to us today. Efird explores these methods, illustrating why the Bible that you hold in your hand today is a trustworthy source of the words and works of Jesus Christ.