The Bible is a fascinating book! It invites examination. It provokes exploration. It defies domestication. It demands untamed participation.
Before we consider some of the practical aspects of the Word – such as knowing how to develop a personal study of Scripture or dealing with problem passages – let’s consider some necessary terminology that will provide clarity and coherence for our journey ahead. At first glance, these terms may appear merely academic, but further investigation will provoke stimulating conversation, strengthen faith, and build confidence in God’s Word.
In this post, we present the skeleton of nine crucial areas. In the two posts that follow, we will put flesh on these bones.
REVELATION
Has God Spoken?
Concept of AUTHORITY
INSPIRATION
The method / means by which He spoke….
Concept of ABILITY
TRANSMISSION and PRESERVATION
Did God maintain oversight to what and how He spoke?
Concept of ASSURANCE
CANONIZATION
How humans could confirm / affirm what God spoke….
Concept of AFFIRMATION
ILLUMINATION
How do we understand what God wrote?
Concept of APPREHENDING
INTERPRETATION
How do we understand the sum of what God spoke?
Concept of ACCURACY
IMAGINATION
How is our entire existence moved by what God spoke?
Concept of AFFECTION
TRANSLATION and PRESERVATION
How God speaks into diversity among humanity….
Concept of ACCESSIBILITY
PROPAGATION and PARTICIPATION
How God speaks to the Nations….
Concept of APERTURE