Biblical Interpretation - Hermeneutics

Broadly and classically speaking, the science and art of interpretation, including communication theories, philosophy of language, theories of meaning, etc. The word is derived from Hermes, the messenger of the Greek god Zeus.

In Christian context, its main concern is how Scriptures is to be interpreted properly. Christian interpretators recognize that this is essential a two-step process, of which exegesis is the first. It asks the fundamental question, "What did this text mean to the audience to whom it was originally addressed?" Only when the task of exegesis has been completed may we begin to ask, "What does this text mean to us today? That is, what is its significance or message and claim on us now in our particular historical-cultural context? I.e., how do we 'apply' or obey it?" This latter step is often termed 'exposition, though, esp. within the North American context, this is often termed 'hermeneutics.'

Exegesis pays particular attention to such questions as 1) historical context; when and why—under what circumstances, both general and specific—was it written? 2) socio-political & cultural contexts; how did the customs and culture of the writer and original audience shape the way they understood what was said? 3) philological context; what range of meanings were attached to the words used at the time the text was written, and how were meanings conveyed with those words?

It is vital that, as preachers, you understand and develop strong hermeneutical skills. It is, ultimately what it means to 'hear God's Word.' You can "borrow" material from other preachers and teachers for your sermons but that can only take you so far. A preacher who does not know how to interprete the Scriptures skillfully cannot, therefore, claim to know God, since he does not hear and understand his Word. Nobody can blame you for not having a strong education (where you have come from) but you can and should be blamed entire for not putting your heart and soul into learning this fundamental skills as a preacher, because this becomes a matter of where you are taking your flock and what you are feeding them.

If you have not read the following book (4th ed.), make sure you buy a copy (you have to have your own copy) and work diligently through it. No lay-preacher should be without this book.