Read Luke 1:1-4 ; 2 Timothy 3:10-17; 2 Peter 1:12-21
The Bible is both a divine and human book. For instance, we know that the biblical author Luke was not an eyewitness of our Lord Jesus Christ. Yet, Luke was used by God to write more of the NT than any of the other NT authors. In the preface of his gospel (Luke 1:1-4), we discover the process of how Luke, though not an eyewitness, was able to write his Gospel. This process, as described by Luke, must be considered when the interpreter describes both the divine and human side of Scripture.
This week’s study of biblical hermeneutics begins at the logical starting place for Christian interpreters – namely, a consideration of the uniqueness of Scripture as revelation from God. Scripture is entirely different than any other human literature because it is “inspired” by God. God is the ultimate Divine author of Scripture, yet He has employed human authors to record authoritative, timeless truth (cf. 2 Timothy 3:10-17; 2 Peter 1:12-21).
Questions to ponder to prepare your heart:
- In your mind’s eye, how do you picture the process of how we “got” the Bible? How did it happen?
- What might this process communicate about God?
What theological commitments do you bring with you when you read texts like Luke 1:1-4; 2 Timothy 3:10-17; 2 Peter 1:12-21. How would you describe your current spiritual posture, as you enter into God’s Word? (Ready and hungry to learn? Somewhat intimidated? Skeptical of a “critical” study of God? Willing to work to recognize preunderstandings?)
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