Category: Hermeneutics

January 18, 2025

Can we interpret the Old Testament the way New Testament authors did?

Hermeneutics

The content explores how New Testament believers can interpret the Old Testament, following the example of the author of Hebrews. It emphasizes the unique inspiration of biblical authors and the need for careful interpretation in light of Christ. Key principles include understanding original context, using law/grace distinction, and maintaining a Christ-centered focus.

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Explaining the Book
January 3, 2025

What Is an Allegorical Interpretation of Scripture?

Bible Answers, Hermeneutics

Allegorical interpretation uncovers deeper meanings in texts, identifying spiritual truths within Scripture. It contrasts with spiritualizing, which lacks textual basis and misinterprets meanings. The New Testament demonstrates appropriate allegorizing, revealing Christ through allegories, while excessive allegorization risks losing the text’s historical sense. Balance is crucial to maintain intended meanings.

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Explaining the Book
January 3, 2025

Was Augustine Influenced by Origen in his thoughts on the Millennium?

Bible Answers, Eschatology (Last Things), Hermeneutics

Augustine of Hippo’s doctrine of the Millennium, particularly his amillennialism, emerges from a blend of influences. While shaped by Origen’s allegorical interpretation and Greek philosophy, Augustine primarily relied on Scripture. His views emphasize a spiritual interpretation of Christ’s reign, responding to premillennial excesses and reflecting his theological priorities centered on God’s sovereignty.

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Explaining the Book
January 2, 2025

The Philosophical Influences Behind Dispensationalism and Amillennialism

Eschatology (Last Things), Hermeneutics

Dispensationalism is influenced by philosophical contexts, notably rationalism and 19th-century American individualism, shaping its literal interpretation of Scripture and eschatological views. Critics often mistakenly assert that amillennialism is solely rooted in Greek philosophy, ignoring its biblical foundations. Both systems reveal inherent philosophical biases affecting their understanding of theology and redemption.

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Explaining the Book
December 7, 2024

Difficult Questions for Dispensationalism

Covenant Theology, Dispensationalism, Hermeneutics

Dispensationalism and Covenant Theology represent two distinct systems of biblical interpretation, especially regarding the relationship between the Old and New Testaments, God’s covenants, and eschatology. Here are several questions that may challenge Dispensationalists but align more seamlessly with the framework of Covenant Theology. These questions often expose tensions in the Dispensational framework, while Covenant Theology…

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Explaining the Book
December 6, 2024

Old Testament Types of Christ

Hermeneutics, Typology

The content explores various types of Christ found in the Old Testament, highlighting their fulfillment in the New Testament. Key figures and events illustrate God’s sovereign design in redemptive history, showing how each type prefigures Jesus and His work. This typology emphasizes the unity of Scripture and the significance of Christ’s role in salvation.

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Explaining the Book
December 6, 2024

What is Typology?

Bible Answers, Hermeneutics, Typology

Typology is a biblical interpretation method that identifies people, events, or institutions in the Old Testament as prefiguring Christ and His redemptive work in the New Testament. It emphasizes the divine intention behind these connections, highlighting their historical reality and the progressive revelation leading to Christ’s ultimate fulfillment of God’s eternal plan.

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Explaining the Book