Bible Question:
Quote from a friend: """My opinion also stands that one (Christian) must take the bible 100 percent literally, or 100 percent figuratively. There can be no in between. If one reads a part that does not make sense to them, it is up for interpretation. But if one believes so earnestly in God, then how can he deny that the Bible is God's word and law? Yet they go on to say, this or that certain verse is not meant to be taken literally. Would that not be questioning God's word? How does anyone know which part is literal and which is not?""" I am at somewhat of a loss and am wondering if there is someone out there that can help me with a clear answer. |
Bible Answer: "The basic principle of interpretation is to interpret plainly. The word *literal* is avoided here because it creates connotations which have to be corrected. Plain, straight-foward interpretation includes at least the following concepts: (...) "(2) Plain interpretation does not exclude the use of figures of speech. Indeed, a figure of speech may communicate more clearly, but what it communicates is plain. In other words, behind every figure of speech is a plain meaning, and that is what the interpreter seeks. (...) "(5) Expect the Bible to use what is technically called phenomenal language. This simply means that it often describes things as they appear to be rather than in precise scientific terms. Speaking of the sun rising or setting (neither of which it does) is an example of this (Matt 5:45; Mark 1:32), but this is a plain and normal way to communicate" (From "A Survey of Bible Doctrine, by Charles C. Ryrie." Quoted in the Ryrie Study Bible, pp. 1959-1960, Moody, 1976, 1978) |