Chapter 9: The Historical Standpoint

Gaining knowledge of the geography, history, chronology, manners, and customs of the times of a biblical author is of first importance when interpreting Scripture. By gaining an understanding of these areas, the biblical interpreter will be able to apprehend the full weight of the author’s words within the historical context in which they were given. As must as possible, we must avoid interpreting Scripture in light of our present times and circumstances. Through an accurate knowledge of history, we must seek to transport ourselves back to the times of the biblical writer and seek to see and feel as he did.

Students of Scripture who have made a thorough study of the itinerant life of the Apostle Paul know the importance the knowledge of the physical and political features of the cities that he passed through. Great interest is brought to Paul’s life in knowing that the shores of Troas on which Paul and his companions arrived was the scene of the Trojan War. This is where the tomb of Achilles that ignited the passions of Alexander the Great to go out and conquer the known world was self-same place that by the preaching of the Apostle Paul armed with heavenly armor and the Gospel conquered the whole world. Considering the times and the geography together should also not be neglected. The often familiar passage of Revelation 3:15-17 in reference to the lukewarm Christians of Laodicea is brought into an interesting light knowing something of the two neighboring cities, Colosse and Hierapolis. Colosse was known for its cold springs of water rich in minerals that were piped by aqueducts to Laodicea. Hierapolis was known, and still is, for its hot springs. The cold waters of Colosse provided a refreshing source of water and many people came to the hot springs of Hierapolis to soothe their ailments. But the Christians in Laodicea were metaphorically described as “lukewarm” being of no benefit either to the one who was athirst spiritually or to the spiritually sick in need of relief.

Gaining an understanding of the historical viewpoint of Scripture can add tremendous understanding to the circumstances, times, and place of the writer. This has helped interpreters be certain about the dates of certain books of the Bible, clearer meaning to the words of Scripture, and the people to whom the biblical authors wrote. Historical considerations may also serve to add great weight to silence the criticisms of those who would cast doubt upon the writers.

Chapter 9: The Historical Standpoint

Gaining knowledge of the geography, history, chronology, manners, and customs of the times of a biblical author is of first importance when interpreting Scripture. By gaining an understanding of these areas, the biblical interpreter will be able to apprehend the full weight of the author’s words within the historical context in which they were given. As must as possible, we must avoid interpreting Scripture in light of our present times and circumstances. Through an accurate knowledge of history, we must seek to transport ourselves back to the times of the biblical writer and seek to see and feel as he did.
Students of Scripture who have made a thorough study of the itinerant life of the Apostle Paul know the importance the knowledge of the physical and political features of the cities that he passed through. Great interest is brought to Paul’s life in knowing that the shores of Troas on which Paul and his companions arrived was the scene of the Trojan War. This is where the tomb of Achilles that ignited the passions of Alexander the Great to go out and conquer the known world was self-same place that by the preaching of the Apostle Paul armed with heavenly armor and the Gospel conquered the whole world. Considering the times and the geography together should also not be neglected. The often familiar passage of Revelation 3:15-17 in reference to the lukewarm Christians of Laodicea is brought into an interesting light knowing something of the two neighboring cities, Colosse and Hierapolis. Colosse was known for its cold springs of water rich in minerals that were piped by aqueducts to Laodicea. Hierapolis was known, and still is, for its hot springs. The cold waters of Colosse provided a refreshing source of water and many people came to the hot springs of Hierapolis to soothe their ailments. But the Christians in Laodicea were metaphorically described as “lukewarm” being of no benefit either to the one who was athirst spiritually or to the spiritually sick in need of relief.

Chapter 8: Comparison of Parallel Passages

One of the most important principles in biblical interpretation is to allow Scripture to interpret Scripture. This principle puts the interpreter in the position of allowing the Divine Author of Scripture to speaking for Himself. One of the methods of using this principle is to compare parallel passages. When seeking parallel passages it is important to be able to discern between what is and is not a true parallel. Without such discernment it is possible to wrest the meaning of the Scripture and make it to say something that it does not teach.

There are few parallels, for example, that are expected to be found in the book of Proverbs. Rather, Proverbs is made up of several concise statements of truth and wisdom. While the book of Proverbs may be divided into general subjects, such as the treatment of the evil woman in chapter seven, there is little connection between the varied verses. However, a large portion of the biblical text posses clear parallels and by comparing such instances great light and understanding is brought to the text. In fact, the principle of parallel passages brings light upon certain words and statements of Scripture that would otherwise be very difficult to comprehend.

One foundational rule of seeking for parallels is to first compare them in the writings of the same author. Each writer can be distinguished by a style of his own and may in one writing expound more or less on a particular subject. Adding to this self-evident rule, some of the most valuable parallels are found by comparing passages of the same class, or category. Historical passages may be compared with other historical passages, those that are prophetic with other prophetic passages, and didactic with didactic. Those familiar with the New Testament will be able to see the soundness in this rule when considering the epistles of the Apostle Paul. Comparing the teaching of Paul’s letters first among themselves and then by class will shed great light upon the text.

When speaking of parallel passages it is common to take notice of parallels that are verbal and those that are called real. Verbal parallels are those where the same word occurs within the context of a similar subject matter. This type of parallel is useful in ascertaining the meaning of words. That which is sometimes called a real parallel consists of passages that share similar facts, subjects, sentiments, or doctrines. Such parallels may also be evaluated both historically and doctrinally. A good exegete will consider not just the verbal and real parallels, but take into account all parallels when interpreting the text.