Recognizing the Original Audience

Continued… Recognizing our Presuppositions

Matthew 18:20 (KJV 1900)

For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

How do vs. 15-17 affect this verse?

How should we understand v. 18 in conjunction with this verse?

What about v. 19?

Does the conjunction “for” play a critical role?

How should the qualification “in my name” v. 20 play into our understanding?

If we understand the verse to solely be referring to Christ’s presence among believers, does this not damage our understanding of:

Hebrews 13:5–6 (KJV 1900)

Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

In essence, understanding what our presuppositions are helps us to grasp our foundational beliefs and bring them in contact with Scripture.

Recognizing the Historical and Cultural Narrative of Scripture

What are cultural values?

What are some values inherent to Eastern Appalachia?

These values formed over the course of history, and they define the community which inhabits this territory.

The same is true of the Bible. God’s word was first delivered to a group of people or individuals who lived in defined communities which held to cultural values that may be similar or different to ours.

Ex: of difference Numbers 30:1-13 implications on Hannah’s vow in 1 Samuel 1:23

Ex: of similarities 2 Thessalonians 3:10

So, it is important for us to understand the culture in which the word of the Lord was first given. This will allow us to take the first step in the interpretation process.

What did it mean to them?

What are the differences and similarities between us and them?

What is the theological principle that will bridge the gap?

How does the theological principles align with the whole of Scripture?

How can we apply the principle in our life?