This document provides guidance on properly reading and interpreting the Bible. It recommends that Christians learn to read, believe, and obey the Bible. It also cautions that our difficulties in understanding come from a lack of practice, not from the Bible being obscure. Finally, it offers tips on choosing a Bible translation and using additional study aids like commentaries to better comprehend and apply the Bible's teachings.

2. Some basic principles

4. 4. We must be careful what things we bring to a text. (Culture, expectations, etc…) 5. The beginning of good biblical interpretation is… common sense! 6. There are many types of biblical writing: history, poetry, prophecy, and teaching.

5. Getting a good translation

6. King James Version (KJV) New International Version (NIV) New Living Translation (NLT) The Message New American Standard Version (NASB) Greek New Testament

7. I Corinthians 11:29 For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. (KJV) For anyone who eats and drinks without recognizing the body of the Lord eats and drinks judgment on himself. (NIV)

8. Aids Several Translations (Devotional Bible?) Concordances Bible Dictionary Commentaries Other helpful books Software

9. Ephesians 2:10 For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

10. Questions 1. What is the main purpose of the 4 gospels? 2. What is the purpose of Acts? 3. What is the purpose of the Epistles? 4. What is the purpose of Revelation?

11. Questions and Answers Or… See how little your pastor really does know!