Natural Interpretaton

Exegetical Study using Literal Hermeneutics

Natural Interpretation (or "Literal Hermeneutics") simply means that Scripture should be taken to mean what it says. This requires consideration of context both in terms of the original historical audience, and in context of verse, chapter, book, and other related Scripture. Natural interpretation still allows for symbollic language, but it does not allow for secret 'spiritually discerned' or secondary allegorical meanings.

Natural Interpretation accepts that the Holy Spirit 'illuminates' Scripture, helping us understand Scripture and helping us apply it to our daily lives, but denies that the Holy Spirit reveals mystical or hidden truths about Scripture apart from the natural meaning. This pairs with the Protestant belief of a closed canon, that is, that there is no inspiration of new Scripture by later or modern prophets.

A distinct study of Literal Hermenutics was my first class in Bible College and was the subject of an excellent book I picked up many years earlier. It is a vital area of instruction for Bible Students. I have provided several pages of notes on the subject, which are linked in progressive order below:

First, a few definitions
The Chicago Statements on Hermeneutics and on Inerrancy
Foundations of Natural Biblical Interpretation
The Basic Process of interpretation
Common Mistakes of New Bible Students
Religious & Philosophical Violations of Natural Interpretation
Special Notes - Application, Parables, and Implied Teachings
Recommended Books

[Next: Definitions]

"If you take the text out of context, all you have left is the con."

- Wesley Adams