Eisegesis -01

Eisegesis - an interpretation, especially of Scripture, that expresses the interpreter's own ideas, bias, or the like, rather than the meaning of the text.

Eisegesis is a hermeneutical term I address in the introduction to Bible study lectures. We need to be aware of how easy it can be to bring our own pre-conceived ideas and preferred outcomes to the text. Eisegetical observations lead to wrong interpretations which lead to self-reinforced application. It's human nature and unless we take a step back and recognize what's happening, we will keep going thinking we're right. 

One of the problems is that we live by the laws of our doctrines or past teaching rather than a living relationship with Jesus Christ. It's in our best self-interest to reinforce our beliefs through the study of Scripture. No one wants to be wrong or admit that they have built their house on the sand. Many Christians, me included, have built their identity on being a Christian. It can be very emotional and difficult to question or challenge beliefs that are not just part of your faith but are part of who you are. No wonder we get defensive and feel personally attacked when someone questions our beliefs or our interpretation of scripture.

The key to all this of course is to build our identity around a real, living, daily, personal relationship with Jesus Christ. I don't isolate myself behind my own truths and make my own way. I come before the Lord every morning with my hands open and extended to him waiting to be filled again and again. Blessed are the empty vessels because they will be filled.

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