What principles are used in biblical exegesis?

TL;DR:

Biblical exegesis is the careful, step-by-step process of uncovering the Bible’s original meaning using principles like literal, grammatical, historical, synthesis, and practical interpretation. Biblical exegesis ensures we understand Scripture in its true context and accurately apply it to our lives.

what does the bible say?

The word "exegesis" refers to an explanation. Biblical exegesis is the work of investigating the biblical text in order to provide an understanding and explanation. Exegesis is a part of the process of hermeneutics, the science of interpretation. A person who conducts biblical exegesis may be called an exegete.

The actual process of biblical exegesis is referred to in Scripture. Second Timothy 2:15 commands readers, "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth." The longest chapter of the Bible, Psalm 119, focuses on God's words and the importance of studying them properly in order to honor God with one's life. Some examples of exegesis from Luke and Acts are below.

from the old testament

"I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you" (Psalm 119:11).
We are to study God's commandments and reflect on His ways (Psalm 119:15).

from the new testament

The disciples who met the risen Christ on the road to Emmaus exegeted (explained) the events to the other disciples (Luke 24:35).
Paul and Barnabas exegeted (explained) to the Jerusalem council the significance of the miracles and wonders God had done through them among the gentiles (Acts 15:12).
Peter exegeted (explained) to the gathering God’s first outreach to the gentiles through his ministry (Acts 15:14).
Paul exegeted (explained) in detail to James and the Jerusalem elders what God had done through him among the gentiles (Acts 21:19)
"Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15, NLT).

implications for today

The process of biblical exegesis involves the following principles:

First is the grammatical principle, which focuses on the structure and rules of language. The words of the text are carefully defined according to their original intent, and the grammatical relationships of the words (syntax) are evaluated.

Second is the literal principle, which assumes that words have a normal, literal meaning unless there is a reason to view them as figurative. We take biblical text at face value unless the context gives a reason to understand it otherwise.

Third is the historical principle, which places the text in its historical setting. This considers the location, audience, and time of the book's writing. Understanding ancient Jewish culture helps to understand Scripture.

Fourth is the synthesis principle, which relates the passage to the broader context of the Bible. Context includes the surrounding verses, the book it is contained in, and the whole Bible. The meaning of a verse should be consistent with all Scripture.

Finally, is the practical principle, which emphasizes applying the text to one's life. The goal of biblical exegesis is to uncover the true meaning of the text and to apply it in a way that is faithful to the original intent of the author.

understand

Biblical exegesis uses grammatical, literal, historical, synthesis, and practical principles to uncover Scripture’s original meaning.
Scripture commands believers to rightly handle and explain God’s Word.
Exegesis ensures accurate understanding and faithful application of the Bible’s message today.

reflect

How do you currently approach understanding difficult or unfamiliar passages in the Bible?
How can focusing on the original context of Scripture change how you apply it to your life?
How committed are you to studying God’s Word carefully and avoiding interpretations based on your own assumptions and for what purpose are you committed to this?

engage

How can recognizing different literary genres in the Bible improve our understanding of its message?
What challenges do we face when trying to interpret Scripture in its historical and cultural context and what are practical ways to best understand these contexts correctly?
How do we balance the literal meaning of a passage with its practical application today without misinterpreting God’s intent?