Page 35 - Discipleship Ministries Student E-Book

Example of Time Gap

Pretend that you were living in Christ’s time and went to a “football game,” and in the end your team
lost. What would you do in the culture of the day? Well, if you were living in Bible times you would
probably TEAR YOUR CLOTHES!!!

When a person would TEAR his clothes (or REND his clothes) this was an outward sign that something
terrible had happened--some disaster or some calamity had taken place. It was also a sign of deep
sorrow and mourning over someone who had died. Sometimes a person would do this when he was
very sad and angry because of sin. As they would tear their clothes, they would not usually tear the
entire garment into shreds, but they would tear a slit or a series of slits in the bottom of the item of
clothing. Is this something that you do when something terrible happens?

Read 1 Samuel 4:10-17. If you were living in Bible times and you saw a man running in your direction
with his clothes torn, would he be bringing good news or bad news?

You see, we must climb into the mind of the audience to whom the Scriptures were written and at the
time and place it was written.

3.4 Let’s Practice

1. State Principle #6 along with its two ancillaries.

2. Principle #7 is a very important principle. Why?

3-7. Name and explain at least five cultural differences that you must know to properly
understand the Word.

8. Why is it important to understand geography when interpreting the Bible?

9. How can a knowledge of the history of the Bible help you when interpreting the Bible?

10. Explain how an interlinear Bible can aid in understanding Scripture.

3.5 Let’s Personalize this Lesson…

Activity: By memorizing these interpretive rules, you will be better equipped to interpret
God’s Word accurately. So, investing some time putting them in your mind permanently will
certainly be worth your time. Do so now!

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