Interpreting Biblical Metaphors and Literal Meanings

The interpretation of the Bible is a deeply personal and controversial topic. One of the most common questions among Christians and scholars alike is how to identify which parts of the Bible are metaphorical and which should be taken literally. Unfortunately, the Bible itself does not provide clear guidance on this matter, leaving room for subjective interpretation.

Misinterpretations and the Problem of Allegorical Claims

One major issue is the frequent misinterpretation of seemingly harsh or difficult passages by labeling them as 'allegories.' For instance, a recent example involved the topic of slavery, where someone argued that while God doesn’t approve of slavery outright, He permitted it as an allegory of liberation from the ‘slavery of sin’ through Christ's death. Similarly, some have interpreted the raising of the dead in Matthew 27:51–53 as an allegory of spiritual rebirth.

Unfortunately, this approach can create a slippery slope where any passage can be reinterpreted as an allegory, making any argument non-falsifiable. This method essentially allows individuals to pick and choose their beliefs based on personal preferences rather than the straightforward meaning of the text.

Dr. Tony Evans – A Call for Clear Understanding

To address these issues, Dr. Tony Evans, in his video titled 'It's Time for a Better Understanding of Who God is,' offers a valuable perspective. He suggests comparing the teachings of the Bible with those of other religions to identify the Truth. Dr. Evans emphasizes that when inconsistencies arise, it often reveals adaptations made to fit specific cultural contexts or marketing schemes.

Educational Approach: David L. Cooper’s Rule

A key principle in Biblical interpretation is the rule proposed by Dr. David L. Cooper (1886-1965), a founder of The Biblical Research Society. Cooper’s rule states: 'When the plain sense of Scripture makes common sense, seek no other sense. Therefore, take every word at its primary, ordinary, usual, and literal meaning, unless the facts of the immediate context, studied in the light of related passages, and axiomatic and fundamental truths, indicate clearly otherwise.' This straightforward method helps to avoid interpretive distortions.

Complicated Origins of the Bible

It’s essential to acknowledge the complex origins of the Bible. Many scholars believe that the text was compiled over centuries, with different groups of individuals writing and modifying parts of it. This process often involved cultural adaptations and theological developments, leading to a diverse collection of interpretations.

For instance, the claim of creation in the beginning ('In the beginning...') is often cited as a metanarrative that requires faith. This faith is not in God's existence but in the historical transmission of the text,which, despite potential inaccuracies or challenges, many still hold to be fundamentally true.

In conclusion, while the Bible is a rich source of spiritual and philosophical insights, its interpretation requires a balanced approach. By following clear principles and understanding the historical context, we can approach the text with both reverence and critical thinking.