Transcript Hermeneutics The Need for Hermeneutics

Hermeneutics
The Need for Hermeneutics
Definitions
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Hermeneutics – From the Greek word e`rmhneu,w,
meaning “to interpret, to explain.” It is the science
(principles) and art (task) of Biblical interpretation.
Exegesis – the application of the principles of
hermeneutics to discover the meaning of the text in its
original setting.
Exposition – setting forth the meaning of the text in a
public presentation, whether oral or written.
Relationship of Hermeneutics to
Other Disciplines
Bible Exposition
LEVEL IV
LEVEL III
Systematic
Theology
Church History
Biblical
Theology
LEVEL II
LEVEL I
Philosophy
of Religion
Apologetics
Homiletics
Counseling
Christian Ed
Administration
Missions
Evangelism
Contemporary
Society
Biblical Exegesis
OT & NT Survey
Biblical Languages
Hermeneutics
Review of Presuppositions
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The Inspiration of Scripture
The Clarity of Scripture
The Single Meaning of Scripture
Scripture is a progressive revelation
Significance of the Progress of
Revelation
The Word of God
Why is Hermeneutics Necessary?
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The primary need – to determine precisely what God has said
in His Word, with a strong emphasis on objectivity and authorial
intent.
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For those who teach, you must know what the Bible means for yourself
before you can teach it to others.
The secondary need – to bridge the gaps between the minds
of present day readers and the minds of the biblical writers:
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Chronological
Geographical
Cultural
Language
Literary
Spiritual
Two Categories of Hermeneutics
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General Hermeneutics
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Deals with principles that are applicable to all parts
of Scripture.
Special Hermeneutics
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Deals with particular topics like prophecy, parables,
figures of speech, etc.
Qualifications for an Interpreter of
Scripture
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Intellectual
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Educational
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A good mind, right use of reason, good judgment, a
willingness to study.
Must have a knowledge of history, chronology, and
geography, and be familiar with the best sources for Bible
study: Bible encyclopedias, commentaries, journal articles, etc.
Spiritual
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Must be regenerated, with a deep reverence for God. “But a
natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God;
for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand
them, because they are spiritually appraised” (1 Cor 2:14).
Next Week: A Survey of
the History of
Interpretation