1. Hermeneutics

2. SECTION 1 - INTRODUCTION
After completing this section, you will be able to:
I. Explain the following terms: hermeneutics, exegesis, eisegesis, and exposition.
II. Analyze the current hermeneutical challenges.
III. Articulate the ultimate purpose of this field of study.

3. I – Basic Definitions
Hermeneutics is often defined as the “science and art of biblical interpretation.”
Origin of the Word
New Testament Usage
This term derives from the Greek verb hermeneuin, which means “to explain, interpret, or translate.”
Definition
The science of biblical interpretation.

4. I – Basic Definitions
Exegesis – The process of extracting meaning “out of” the Bible; in other words, the interpreter seeks to acquire the intended meaning of the biblical author.
Eisegesis – The process of forcing one’s own ideals and assumptions “into” the Bible (Ex – out of; Eis – into).

5. DISCUSSION
Did the Lycaonians commit exegesis or eisegesis with Paul’s message (Acts 14)? Explain.

6. I – Basic Definitions
4. Biblical Exposition – This phrase refers to the proper explanation of Scripture to others.
1 Peter 3:15 - But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect

7. DISCUSSION Why is biblical exposition important?
Why is the danger of communicating incorrect things well?
What is the danger of miscommunicating true things?

8. THE REAL SAINT NICHOLAS

9. III - Hermeneutical Challenges

10. III - Hermeneutical Challenges
1. Cultural Distance
“The biblical world was essentially agrarian, made up of landowners and tenant farmers using machinery that was primitive by our standards and methods of travel that were slow and wearying. On the pages of the Bible we encounter customs, beliefs, and practices that make little sense to us.” – William Klein

11. III - Hermeneutical Challenges
2. Geographical Distance
Because most individuals have not been to Israel, they lack a “visual data bank” that could assist them in understanding important historic pieces of information.

12. III - Hermeneutical Challenges
3. Language
Distance
Language changes over time. Each language attaches various meanings to specific words. It is important to understand how words were used in the initial context BEFORE making current applications.

13. IV – The Purpose/Aim of Hermeneutics
The goal of Hermeneutics is exegesis, exposition and application. Every interpreter is called to properly extract truth “out of” the Bible; then, he or she is called to clearly communicate and faithfully apply this truth to the world.

14. Artistic Expression Create a 30 second expression that demonstrates:
*2-3 things that you have learned from this unit.
Permissible Expressions: Rap, Poem, Song, Skit, Short Story, Etc.

15. Jonestown and Eisegesis
Christians should not only pursue a proper interpretation of God’s words because they are “sweet words” (Psalm 119:103), but believers should also “keep a close watch” on themselves and “on the teaching … for by so doing” they “will save both” themselves and “hearers” (1 Timothy 4:16).