Introduction

This is a Bible study blog. The format is a hybrid between devotional and commentary. The style is not "scholarly" enough to be a true commentary. I try to avoid "text-book speak". On the other hand, there is a bit more Bible study than your typical devotional homily. The idea is to walk the line; giving you the meat of the Word without boring you with theological terminology and endless Greek word studies.

For the most part, I will be starting at the beginning of a book, and work my way through, examining the subjects, and seeing what the Bible has to say  on the subject. That format may change if the Spirit so leads.

I believe that the Bible is the divinely inspired Word of God, and I believe in a literal interpretation of scripture.

For the sake of brevity and copyright laws, I will occasionally be excerpting passages instead of quoting full chapters. I recommend having a Bible of your own and reading the whole passage for yourself.

There are a few basic rules that I follow for Bible interpretation.

1. What the Bible says is literally true. If a passage is clearly symbolic, then the most obvious interpretation of that symbolism is the truth.
2. No verse stands alone. Everything must be interpreted in context. This means the verses and chapters surrounding the verse, as well as the Bible as a whole.
3. Do not infer doctrine. Sometimes a verse, or a number of verses, will imply a doctrine without actually stating it. While you can find truth, inferring doctrine can lead to misinterpretation of the scriptures and false teaching. If a doctrine is implied by some scripture verses, but another verse clearly states something else, then the clearly stated verse is the truth.
4. Let go of preconceived ideas. You may have been taught something your whole life, but that doesn't make it true. Be open to the Spirit of God to speak to you through the scriptures, and allow Him to teach you.

I pray that God will open our eyes and hearts to His truth, and that His Spirit will teach us. God's blessings be on you.

Randy Hughes