Chapter 1: The Nature of Interpretation

Every day presents new opportunities for debate and discussion, particularly regarding the Bible’s teachings.

Signs of Interpretation Are Everywhere! Are they not? What implications do they carry?

I digress…

Just yesterday, I shared a post on Author's Exposition. Here’s the article for your review:

To my astonishment, I found that many commented on Facebook without actually reading the piece on Medium. Has that ever occurred to you? Here are some reactions I encountered:

"I’m tired of people believing that the Bible unconditionally teaches eternal security, when 2 Timothy 2:12 clearly indicates that apostasy can lead to the loss of salvation: 'If we deny Him, He will deny us.'"

"Yet, the Bible suggests that Christ will draw everyone to Himself. The theme of universal reconciliation is woven throughout scripture, compelling Calvinists to twist the text to fit their agenda."

"E.R. Báez, you seem to have sidestepped the clear meaning." You get the idea!

In response, I shared:

"These are the words of Jesus, not mine. In your quoted verse, Paul intertwines the concepts of perseverance and authority. The term ὑπομένομεν (we endured) signifies true believers. This endurance serves as evidence of their salvation—those who are saved will persevere, while those who do not were never saved in the first place. The subsequent phrase, 'if we deny Him, He will deny us,' stands in contrast to those who endure. A believer’s perseverance leads to reigning with Him, while denying Christ results in the loss of eternal life. This notion pertains to rejecting or renouncing, not merely closing a door. God turns away those who renounce Christ—this is not about apostasy, a term that doesn’t even appear in this context!"

"Again, these are not my words but those of Jesus. As I read your comment, I was reminded of Paul! Just to clarify, I do not identify as a Calvinist. Did you read the article? Have you considered the Filioque controversy? Blessings to you!"

"How so?" The debate is likely to persist…

This prompted a reflection: "Do these individuals arguing on Facebook even grasp the original language of the Bible?"

If they did, they might refrain from the arguments they’re making. Are they merely attempting to validate a point?

I was labeled as 'lawyering' simply for referencing an original term (ὑπομένομεν) from the scripture! This was a distraction from the question at hand. Why is that?

If you wish to debate the meaning of scripture—especially in the Bible—please do so using the original language, rather than relying solely on translations. The reality is that translations often miss certain meanings, even with formal equivalence.

The core principle is straightforward: it’s impossible to encapsulate every idiomatic expression, hyperbole, rhetorical device, and literary technique without addressing the original language. And the list continues… but I digress again! Here’s a compelling illustration of this phenomenon: Some may deem this blasphemous!

How can we interpret meaning unless we comprehend it from the author's perspective—rather than the reader’s?

This necessity is why methodologies exist—to ascertain the true meaning of a text. If this concept is unfamiliar to you, perhaps it’s time to delve deeper before commenting on matters beyond your expertise!

"Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who accurately handles the word of truth." Now I can finally take a breath!

To reinforce my stance, I will share this article in the same Facebook group as before. Stay tuned for the comments!

Dr. Báez is a published author contributing to multiple Medium publications. He serves as the editor-in-chief for two platforms: Criminal Law Talk and Author's Exposition, with a third writing-related publication soon to be launched. Help me brainstorm a name…

Chapter 2: Video Insights into Biblical Interpretation

To further explore these themes, check out the following videos:

The first video, 2024 In Bible Prophecy | Here Are 4 Trends To Watch For, discusses significant trends in biblical prophecy that are essential for contemporary understanding.

The second video, Zeitgeist - The Movie | Documentary | Sociological | History | Christianity, offers a deep sociological and historical analysis of Christianity and its cultural impact.