When we approach the words of the Bible it is essential that we use exegetical methods and principles. This means we must bring out the message of the text. We are not looking for our own message. We are looking for a message from God. We can make the Bible say what we want it to say, as many have, or we can hear the message of God. Consider the words of Jesus quoting the words of Isaiah the prophet:
"And in their case the prophecy of Isaiah is being fulfilled, which says, 'YOU WILL KEEP ON HEARING, BUT WILL NOT UNDERSTAND; AND YOU WILL KEEP ON SEEING, BUT WILL NOT PERCEIVE;" Matthew 13:14 (NASV)
We can only bring out the message of the text by objective study.
Objective means based upon facts as opposed to subjective which means based upon
feelings and emotions. Truth is objective fact. Truthfulness and untruthfulness
are mutually exclusive. It's either true or it's false. We cannot rely on our
heart or soul to tell us the truth. Consider the following verses:
"The heart is more deceitful than all else And is desperately sick; Who can understand it? "I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the mind, Even to give to each man according to his ways, According to the results of his deeds. Jeremiah 17:9-10 NASV
For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do. Hebrews 4:12-13 NASV
I know, O LORD, that a man’s way is not in himself; Nor is it in a man who walks to direct his steps. Jeremiah 10:23 NASV
There is a way which seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death. Proverbs 14:12 NASV
Occasionally, people in the media will mention that they strive to be objective. This is, however, very difficult if not impossible to accomplish. There are personal biases and prejudices that have to be overcome. I am constantly reviewing my own Bible study conclusions. I am testing my ideas and concepts, because I want to make sure that I understand what God is saying. If it's not THE TRUTH from God, I'm not interested. Now there are those fundamental truths in the Bible that are very clearly stated. But, there are many religious, spiritual people who for whatever reason don't understand these things.
The brethren immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea, and when they arrived, they went into the synagogue of the Jews. Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so. Therefore many of them believed, along with a number of prominent Greek women and men. Acts 17:10-12 NASV
Wherever you are in your spiritual journey, you owe it to yourself to take a long, objective look at what you believe regarding your souls eternal destiny. Not what some pastor, or teacher, or preacher has taught you. You need to look for yourself. As we will see later in this study, there are plenty of bible tools, resources, and reference materials available on the web free of charge.
I plead with you to ask yourself this question: If I discover that what I currently believe is not right, will I be willing to change what I believe and practice?