Rule 2 - Interpret within the biblical context
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## Rule 2 - Interpret within the biblical context

Interpret scripture in harmony with other scripture. What do the verses on each side say? What is the theme of the chapter? The book? Does your interpretation fit with these? If not, it is flawed. Usually, the context supplies what we need to correctly interpret the passage. Context is key. If confusion remains as to the meaning after we have interpreted the text within its context, we have to look further.

### Example 2A

In a previous lesson we considered Jn.3:5 "born of water and the Spirit."In context, what is the water under discussion here?

Water baptism is not under discussion here, which would be a big switch from the subject being discussed by Jesus and Nicodemus. Watch out for a sudden change of topic, it may be a clue that your interpretation has been derailed! The water is the amniotic fluid, "born of water" = natural birth.

### Example 2B

1 Cor.14:34 “Let the women keep silent in the churches”has to be taken within the biblical context of 1 Cor.11:5 “every woman [...] while praying or prophesying [...]”

### Example 2C

Acts 2:38 “And Peter said to them, "Repent, and let each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins [...]"”. Is this teaching baptismal regeneration? If this was the only verse of scripture we had, we would have to conclude that. But in the light of the clear teaching elsewhere that regeneration happens by faith in Christ, we have to interpret it otherwise. Peter is urging baptism as a way for his hearers to respond to the gospel. If baptism were the pathway to being born again, how could Paul write 1 Cor.1:17 "For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel"?

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