Interpreting the Bible Lesson 7

Making Biblical Distinctions:

In our study on how to interpret the Bible, we focus today on making proper distinctions. Scripture contains both eternal truths and context-bound instructions, and our responsibility is to discern between the two. Right division is not optional; it is essential for understanding God's will accurately.

Distinguishing Between Dispensations There are three major dispensations in the Bible: the Patriarchal, the Mosaical, and the Christian. Each had different commands, covenants, and methods of communication from God. For instance, Noah was commanded to build an ark—an obligation specific to the patriarchal age. It has no binding authority today. Recognizing the timeline and dispensation in which an account occurs helps us understand what is applicable and what was specific to a time or people.

Distinguishing Between Covenants Similarly, we must distinguish between the Law of Moses and the Law of Christ. The Mosaical covenant was given to Israel and was in effect until the cross. Today, we live under the Law of Christ (Galatians 6:2), and understanding this change in covenant helps us avoid applying outdated laws to Christian living.

Distinguishing Between the Permanent and Temporary Some commands in Scripture are permanent—applicable for all time. Worshiping God (John 4) and moral living are permanent responsibilities. The Great Commission (Matthew 28) remains until the end of time. By contrast, other things were temporary. Animal sacrifices were ordained by God but fulfilled and replaced by Christ's perfect sacrifice (Hebrews 10).

Miraculous gifts are another example. Mark 16:20 and 1 Corinthians 13 explain that these were used to confirm the word in an era before the New Testament was complete. Paul teaches that tongues, prophecy, and knowledge would cease when "that which is perfect" (i.e., the complete word of God) came. Today, with the full revelation of Scripture, those gifts have served their purpose.

Distinguishing Between Custom and Principle Foot washing was a cultural custom, not a binding command. Jesus used it to teach humility, not to establish a ritual. The principle is humility and service—not the act of foot washing itself. Likewise, "greet one another with a holy kiss" was a common greeting in the first century, and Scripture regulated it with holiness. The principle of loving, pure greetings still applies, but not necessarily in that cultural form.

Modesty is a principle, not a custom. God has always desired modesty in dress, regardless of time or culture. The specific clothing may vary, but the principle remains permanent.

Distinguishing Between Essentials and Incidentals Many divisions arise from failing to distinguish what is essential and what is incidental. Where baptism occurs is incidental; what matters is immersion in water (Romans 6). The place of worship is incidental; the worship itself is essential (John 4:24). The number or material of communion cups or baskets is incidental; the unleavened bread and fruit of the vine are essential because of their spiritual significance.

Failing to make these distinctions leads to confusion and division. Right interpretation involves serious thought, contextual understanding, and spiritual maturity. When we separate essentials from incidentals, customs from principles, and temporary from permanent, we allow the Bible to speak clearly and truthfully.

Sermon Outline: Making Biblical Distinctions

• Distinguishing Between Dispensations
  • Patriarchal, Mosaical, and Christian ages
  • Commands specific to time periods
• Distinguishing Between Covenants
  • Law of Moses vs. Law of Christ
  • Rightly applying today’s standard
• Distinguishing Between Permanent and Temporary
  • Worship and morality (permanent)
  • Sacrifices, miracles (temporary)
• Distinguishing Between Custom and Principle
  • Foot washing and holy kisses (custom)
  • Humility, modesty, and service (principle)
• Distinguishing Between Essentials and Incidentals
  • Place of baptism and assembly (incidental)
  • Means and substance of worship (essential)

Call to Action: God gave us His word not to confuse but to enlighten. Let us become diligent students who rightly divide the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15). Let us distinguish clearly what God meant for all time versus what was for a time. In doing so, we will walk more faithfully in His will.