1. Hermeneutics The Need for Hermeneutics

2. Definitions Hermeneutics – From the Greek word e`rmhneu,w, meaning “to interpret, to explain.” It is the science (principles) and art (task) of Biblical interpretation. Exegesis – the application of the principles of hermeneutics to discover the meaning of the text in its original setting. Exposition – setting forth the meaning of the text in a public presentation, whether oral or written.

3. Relationship of Hermeneutics to Other Disciplines LEVEL I OT & NT SurveyBiblical Languages Hermeneutics LEVEL II Biblical Exegesis LEVEL III Systematic Theology Biblical Theology Church HistoryPhilosophy of Religion Apologetics Homiletics Counseling Christian Ed Administration Missions Evangelism Contemporary Society Bible Exposition LEVEL IV

4. Review of Presuppositions The Inspiration of Scripture The Inspiration of Scripture The Clarity of Scripture The Clarity of Scripture The Single Meaning of Scripture The Single Meaning of Scripture Scripture is a progressive revelation Scripture is a progressive revelation

5. Significance of the Progress of Revelation The Word of God

6. Why is Hermeneutics Necessary? The primary need – to determine precisely what God has said in His Word, with a strong emphasis on objectivity and authorial intent. The primary need – to determine precisely what God has said in His Word, with a strong emphasis on objectivity and authorial intent. For those who teach, you must know what the Bible means for yourself before you can teach it to others. For those who teach, you must know what the Bible means for yourself before you can teach it to others. The secondary need – to bridge the gaps between the minds of present day readers and the minds of the biblical writers: The secondary need – to bridge the gaps between the minds of present day readers and the minds of the biblical writers: Chronological Chronological Geographical Geographical Cultural Cultural Language Language Literary Literary Spiritual Spiritual

7. Two Categories of Hermeneutics General Hermeneutics General Hermeneutics Deals with principles that are applicable to all parts of Scripture. Deals with principles that are applicable to all parts of Scripture. Special Hermeneutics Special Hermeneutics Deals with particular topics like prophecy, parables, figures of speech, etc. Deals with particular topics like prophecy, parables, figures of speech, etc.

8. Qualifications for an Interpreter of Scripture Intellectual Intellectual A good mind, right use of reason, good judgment, a willingness to study. A good mind, right use of reason, good judgment, a willingness to study. Educational Educational Must have a knowledge of history, chronology, and geography, and be familiar with the best sources for Bible study: Bible encyclopedias, commentaries, journal articles, etc. Must have a knowledge of history, chronology, and geography, and be familiar with the best sources for Bible study: Bible encyclopedias, commentaries, journal articles, etc. Spiritual Spiritual Must be regenerated, with a deep reverence for God. “ Must be regenerated, with a deep reverence for God. “But a natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God; for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually appraised” (1 Cor 2:14).

9. Next Week: A Survey of the History of Interpretation