The 4 Things You Need to Correctly Understand the Bible

I think we all agree that it is critical to understand the bible correctly. The original authors meant something when they wrote. It's our duty to comprehend what they were saying then and how that applies today. This is not always an easy task, but it is usually an enjoyable one.

Many Christians do not believe they have the ability to correctly understand the bible. I'd like to squash that belief. In order to understand the bible you only need four things. There are also many things that you do not need. Some of the things you do not need can be beneficial, but they are not necessary.

You do not need a seminary degree, ordination, overseas missionary service, thirty bibles, fancy bible software, Greek, or Hebrew. You also don't need experience as a paid pastor, Sunday School teacher, or Deacon. You certainly don't need to have written a book.

What, then, are the four things you need to correctly understand scripture? Here they are:

1. Your brain
2. The Holy Spirit
3. A good translation of the bible
4. Other believers

First, you need your brain. This is because you can, in fact, understand the bible. If you know Jesus Christ, then you are a part of the priesthood of all believers. Also, you have the Holy Spirit's assistance. He will not fail you. Our God is not a god of confusion. He wants you to correctly understand His book. The Spirit will help with this. Since you probably don't read both Greek and Hebrew at an expert level, you need a good translation. One is enough. Finally, you need other believers. As a group you can and should discuss the meaning of biblical texts. Interpretation is best done in community.

That's all you need. Four simple things. You can do it.