How to Interpret the Bible — Lesson One: Foundations That Cannot Be Removed

Introduction
Before we begin studying any part of the Bible, we must lay a proper foundation. This first lesson introduces the fundamental truths we must accept in order to interpret the Bible correctly. If we fail here, all later efforts will be in vain. The Bible is not a book of confusion; it is a book of clarity for those willing to seek, study, and submit to God’s truth.

God Has Spoken
Every serious student of Scripture must begin with this unshakable truth: God exists and has spoken. If God has not spoken, then the Bible is irrelevant. But if He has, then every word matters. Hebrews 1:1–2 tells us that God has spoken in various ways and has now spoken through His Son. Scripture is the written revelation of God’s will, and belief in that truth is the first principle of Bible interpretation.

The Bible Bears Evidence of Divine Origin
God’s word carries marks of inspiration throughout: its unity (66 books, 40 authors, 1500 years, one message), its fulfilled prophecies (over 300 about Jesus alone), its miracles, its moral superiority, its brevity and completeness, its impartiality, its scientific and historical accuracy. No other book compares. This evidence, both internal and external, demands our reverence.

The Bible Has Been Accurately Translated
While not all translations are equal, we can trust that God’s word has been preserved. Reliable versions based on the original Greek and Hebrew manuscripts exist today, and through careful study we can know what God has revealed. Future lessons will explore translation principles more deeply.

The Bible Is Infallible and Complete
Because God is perfect, His word is perfect. Psalm 19:7 declares, "The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul." God’s word is final. The canon was completed in the first century; there is no need for modern-day revelations, new books, or divine messages. Jude 3 says the faith has been "once for all delivered to the saints."

The Bible Is Understandable
Many claim the Bible is too hard to understand or that no one can interpret it alike. But that’s false. Paul said in Ephesians 3:4, “When you read, you may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ.” God commands understanding (Ephesians 5:17), which proves it is possible. The Bible was written in everyday language, not some mysterious code. If we approach it humbly and diligently, we can know what God wants.

The Bible Is Authoritative
Jesus said, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth” (Matthew 28:18). That authority flows from the Father, through the Son, and is recorded in the inspired Word. The Bible must not be treated as optional advice. It demands submission. We must believe it, obey it, and teach it without alteration (2 Timothy 4:2).

Use Common Sense in Bible Study
The Bible was written for people to understand. We must use logic and reason. Just as one reads a newspaper or book expecting to comprehend its meaning, so should we read Scripture. God’s word was written for real people using regular language. It is not mystical or beyond grasp. But it does require honest effort.

Avoid Common Pitfalls
Several attitudes hinder proper interpretation:

• Prejudice: Preconceived ideas block understanding.
• Wishful Thinking: Hoping a verse says something doesn’t make it true.
• Generalizations: Drawing large conclusions from isolated texts.
• Appeals to Human Authority: Trusting denominations or traditions over Scripture.
• Popularity: Believing what is commonly accepted rather than what is biblically true.

Adopt the Right Attitudes
To rightly understand Scripture, we must:

• Be willing to work hard.
• Trust and revere God’s word.
• Expect to understand it.
• Desire obedience once we know the truth.
• Pray continually for wisdom (James 1:5).

Jesus and the Question of Authority
In Matthew 21:23–27, Jesus asked whether John’s baptism was from heaven or from men. This illustrates a key interpretive principle: authority matters. If something is from heaven, we must obey it. If it is from men, we must reject it. Every doctrine must pass that test. “By what authority” must be asked and answered.

Conclusion: The Bible Can Be Understood and Must Be Obeyed
This series will equip you to study the Bible carefully and accurately. But it begins with this truth: God has spoken. His word is inspired, infallible, authoritative, and understandable. Let us lay aside assumptions and approach the Bible with humility and reverence, using common sense and godly wisdom. If we do, we can know and do God’s will.

Sermon Outline: Foundations for Understanding God’s Word

Title: How to Interpret the Bible — Lesson One: Foundations That Cannot Be Removed

1. God Has Spoken
   • Hebrews 1:1–2; 2 Timothy 3:16
   • Without this belief, Bible study is pointless
2. Evidence Supports the Bible’s Divine Origin
   • Fulfilled prophecy, historical accuracy, moral excellence, unity
3. The Bible Is Infallible and Complete
   • Psalm 19:7; Jude 3
   • No new revelations are needed
4. The Bible Is Understandable
   • Ephesians 3:4; 5:17
   • Written in common language, not mystery
5. Common Pitfalls to Avoid
   • Prejudice, generalization, wishful thinking, human authority, popularity
6. Attitudes That Promote Understanding
   • Reverence, effort, prayer, expectation, desire to obey
7. The Question of Authority
   • Matthew 21:23–27
   • Is it from heaven or from men?

Call to Action:
Let us commit today to study the Bible with honest hearts and sound minds. Reject assumptions and traditions. Accept the Bible as the final word from God. God has spoken—and He expects us to listen, learn, and live according to His will. Will you seek His truth and submit to His authority?