I have been thinking about this for a while now, perhaps even before joining you all here on this site.
From what I can tell, there are many denominations of Christianity, all which seem to either place emphasis on certain aspects of the faith, or perhaps even collectively held interpretations among those in the branch.
How much does interpretation come into play?
I know this is a vague question, but I cannot come up with anything more specific. Feel free to be as vague or general as you like in your answers.
Perhaps I could come up with something more specific in the replies to help the conversation going.
Biblical Understand first has to be in Relationship with Jesus or as The Holy Spirit provides Illumination in imparting insight and understanding to the individual reader or hearer so that " Truth is comprehended.
When one becomes a Christian Bible study is to be a way of life II Timothy 2:15: " Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the " Word of truth".
Over the years many in the Christian faith, have learned as God has helped properly interpreted scripture however, no one person can fully understand everything of God and His Nature other than what HIS words says and Creation Provides. Believers through His word, have enough for Righteous Living and apprpreiate Worship.
We could say there are two basic types of People in the world ; those who believe in the inerrancy and authority of the bible and those who do not. Where there is misunderstanding of the bible it solely is with the person NOT God.
Over the Years the "Church " has been able to build on the foundation of Christ to see what is known as " Foundational Truths". This helps in general and specific Principles for Interpreting Scripture . For example a term used in " Hermeneutics " ( proper bible interpretation ) called
" Circles of Literary Context".
you have the in the center (Text) think of a bulleye ( ( .1 ).2 ).3
1. Chapter Context
2. Book Context
3. Bible Context
why is this important? well A Verse taken out of context is dangerous weapon. In fact a verse out of context is so deceptive that Satan even tried it on the Son of God Matt 4:5-6 read it and see.
the saved Believer who studies will come to know the truth as God helps them. That is how the Church fathers were able to understand what is known as " Foundational truth " of our faith. There so much on this topic and it is very important. I hope you all continue to study and seek the Lord each day for more of him in His word.
here are some Foundational truth we build our faith on:
1. The Scriptures Inspired
2 One True God
3. The Deity of the Lord Jesus Christ
4. The fall of man
5 The Salvation of man
These are just some the " church" builds " doctrine from " or teaching . I am going to stop here because there is so much
Lord Bless you as you seek HIM in HIs Word...