To Determine the Author's Intent: The Theologian’s Approach

by Desmond Allen

The accurate interpretation of Scripture is critical. Faulty interpretation leads to a faulty theology, which leads to faulty doctrine and subsequent faulty behavior. However, in today’s context the term interpret almost seems a misnomer; in that many construe this to imply readers have a license to draw from a passage whatever seems appropriate to their personal circumstance. As if it was some poem by Henry David Thoreau. But this is not the interpretation of which we speak. Some sort of touchy-feely-what-does-it-say-to-you, as pursued in abstract, existential poetry is not our concern. Bible interpretation, or hermeneutics, is the scientific process of understanding the original, plain meaning of the text. This requires knowledge of the historical context in which the author the language, the culture, and any theological matters that might be of concern. As such, understanding the author’s intent, the literal meaning in common language, is our goal. Once we have this knowledge we can make personal application, if it is applicable. Here, we learn the methods theologians use to arrive at the author’s intent.

148 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 14, 2020