Questions About The Bible

By Moises Alaniz, Health & Wellness Coach

Squares: 4 ideas that, in general, square (fit) with your thinking

1. Though we value independent thought, it is important to recognize how culture, traditions, and experiences, can subtly shape our interpretation of scripture on a subconscious level.

   
   

2. “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6).  While we focus closely on the details of scripture, we may lose sight of the broader message – especially when we insert ourselves into the narrative and overlook what God is trying to communicate to us.

3. The consistency of scripture across millennia affirms its reliability; even after countless translations, the bible remains a remarkably reliable text, many modern versions closely reflect the original Greek and Hebrew manuscripts, supporting the claim of God’s authorship and textual preservation.

4. A council serves a vital role in preserving the integrity of Scripture and safeguarding doctrinal purity by addressing and rejecting heretical teachings.  In a similar way, forming community groups within the local church encourages spiritual growth.  These groups promote fellowship, mutual accountability, and a strengthened understanding of God’s word.

Triangles:  3 angles you have never considered before

1. The thought of rebellion in a large term will never allow mankind to see we are being guilty of rebelling against God.  The blame of rebellion is pushed on someone or something else rather taking responsibility of our actions (Cartwright, et. al, p. 41).

   
   

2. For those who have spent much of their time in church for many years may carry certain baggage that often goes ungoverned (Cartwright, et. al, p. 41).  It is important to examine how church traditions can subtly influence our interpretation of scripture especially given the common assumption the church’s traditions and interpretations inherently align with the God’s word.

3. To stay interested and understand the message during the church’s sermon, it is best to utilize the bible translation that the Pastor preaches from.  Additionally, when a Pastor chooses to preach from the functional equivalent translation, it often reflects an intention to communicate the message of scripture that is easily understood by the congregation.

Circles:  2 questions that are circling in your mind

1. If Christianity relied solely on the formal equivalent translations, could that unify Christians and reduce the misunderstandings that often lead to denominational differences?

   
   

2. Has God remained silent for over seventeen centuries, given that no new scriptures have been recognized as inspired by God or incorporated into the biblical canon as an additional testament?

Hearts:  1 idea that you loved

1. "A good student of God’s Word will consider how they have been shaped by the culture that surrounds them." (Cartwright et. al, p. 66). It is important to be cognitive of what influences our understanding, as Paul forces all to question, “For am I seeking the approval of God, or of man? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ” (Galatians 1:10, ESV)

References:

Cartwright, J., & Hulshof, C. (2019). Section 2: Questions about the Bible. In B. Gutierrez & G. B. Etzel (Eds.), Everyday Bible Study: Growing in the Christian Faith (Second edition). B&H Academic.

The Holy Bible, English Standard Bible. (2016). Crossway Bibles. (Original work published 2001)