Exegesis vs Eisegesis: Biblical Hermeneutics Principles Quiz

Study Notes

Understanding Biblical Hermeneutics

Biblical hermeneutics is the science of interpreting the various types of literature found in the Bible.
It helps us know how to interpret, understand, and apply the Bible accurately.

Guiding Principles of Biblical Hermeneutics

Key verse: 2 Timothy 2:15 emphasizes diligence in rightly dividing the word of truth.
The Bible should be interpreted literally, in its plain meaning, avoiding allegorizing or symbolizing verses unnecessarily.

Literal Interpretation

Literal interpretation means understanding the Bible as it says, without reading hidden meanings into the text.
It keeps us faithful to the intended meaning of Scripture.

Historical, Grammatical, and Contextual Interpretation

Historical interpretation considers the cultural background and context of the text.
Grammatical interpretation applies language rules and nuances to understand passages.
Contextual interpretation involves considering surrounding verses to determine meaning accurately.

Purpose of Biblical Hermeneutics

Protects from misapplying Scripture and helps in discovering its true meaning and application.
Allows the Word of God to penetrate deep into our hearts, discerning thoughts and attitudes (Hebrews 4:12).

Avoiding Misconceptions

Biblical hermeneutics doesn't limit learning new truths or hinder the Holy Spirit's work.
Instead, it guides us to the correct interpretation already inspired by the Holy Spirit.

Exegesis and Eisegesis

Exegesis: Drawing out the true meaning of Scripture through careful, objective analysis.
Eisegesis: Injecting personal ideas into the text, often leading to misinterpretation.

Exegesis Process

Observation: What does the passage say?
Interpretation: What does the passage mean?
Correlation: How does the passage relate to the rest of the Bible?
Application: How should this passage affect my life?

Eisegesis Approach

Imagination: What idea do I want to present?
Exploration: What Scripture passage seems to fit with my idea?
Application: What does my idea mean?

Contextual Understanding

Context is key in biblical interpretation, preventing error and misunderstanding.
Four principles guide contextual analysis: literal meaning, historical setting, grammar, and synthesis.

Principles of Contextual Analysis

Literal Meaning: Focuses on what the passage says at face value, without adding personal interpretation.
Historical Setting: Considers the events, audience, and cultural context of the passage.
Grammar: Applies language rules and nuances to understand passages.
Synthesis: Combines the above principles to determine the passage's meaning accurately.

Description

Test your knowledge on the principles of biblical hermeneutics, which help in interpreting and applying the Bible accurately. Learn about literal interpretation, avoiding allegorizing or symbolizing verses unnecessarily, and the importance of diligently studying the word of truth.