The Bible is a bestseller, and millions worldwide find it the most revered and useful book. Itis God’s revelation to His people, and His inspired word communicates to us inwritten form. (Klein, Blomberg, and Hubbard 2017, 571). It doesn’t have to be an obscure book if approached with proper reading and study. The biggest problem many people have with the Bible isn't a lack of understanding but rather that they understand certain things all too well, leading to misinterpretation. We need to read, believe, and obey the Bible.

The uses of the Bible include gaining information and understanding, motivating and enriching worship, constructing liturgy, formulating theology, preaching, and teaching, providing pastoral care, promoting spiritual formation in the Christian life, and enjoying its beauty as literature. We know that the Bible’s diversity reflects the variety of the numerous authors and the circumstances of their times, places, and situations. Its unity derives from its single divine source or author and the grand narrative it unveils. The Bible includes a variety of literary genres, including poetry, narrative, law, prophecy, and letters. Each genre has its own rules for interpretation, and it is important to recognize these differences to avoid misreading the text. For example, interpreting poetry as literal history can lead to confusion. While historical and cultural knowledge is essential, the Holy Spirit is also key to understanding Scripture's deeper spiritual truths. It is argued that interpretation is adynamic process where the Holy Spirit guides believers to apply the Bible to their lives.

So then, how do I go about reading my Bible with purpose?

1. Understand the Context
   Before interpreting a passage, consider its historical, cultural, and literary context. Who wrote it? To whom was it written? What genre is it(e.g., narrative, poetry, prophecy)? This helps ensure you don’t misinterpret the meaning based on modern assumptions.‍
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2. Identify the Author’s Intent
   Focus on what the original author intended to communicate to the original audience. Ask, "What message or lesson were they trying to convey?" This helps avoid reading your own ideas into the text.‍
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3. Apply the Message Faithfully
   Once you understand the original meaning, apply it thoughtfully to your life today. Look for timeless principles that can guide your actions and beliefs while respecting the cultural distance between then and now.

These steps help ensure that you're not just reading the Bible but truly understanding and applying it meaningfully. By combining good interpretive practices with reliance on the Holy Spirit, believers can better understand the Bible and apply its teachings to their lives.

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References:

Klein, William Wade, Craig L. Blomberg, and Robert L. Hubbard. 2017. Introduction to Biblical Interpretation. Third edition. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Zondervan.