Introduction to the Seminar of Biblical Interpretation - Frank M. Hasel

Biblical Research Institute

6 May 202107:54

Summary

TLDRThis seminar on biblical interpretation, presented by Frank Hazel from the Seventh-day Adventist Biblical Research Institute, explores how to interpret the Bible faithfully and accurately. It addresses why Christians, including Adventists, sometimes arrive at different conclusions despite using the same scripture. Topics include principles of biblical hermeneutics, the role of history and culture, the relationship between faith and science, and the proper use of prophecy. The seminar features insights from Adventist scholars, focusing on a method of interpretation that aligns with the Bible's own principles and teachings.

Takeaways

📖 Seventh-day Adventists have always emphasized the Bible as the foundation of their faith and theology.
❓ There are various interpretations of the Bible, even among Christians who claim to follow scripture, leading to differing conclusions.
🧠 Correct interpretation of the Bible requires understanding factors and presuppositions that influence our understanding of scripture.
📜 The Greek word for interpretation is 'hermannoio,' which is the basis for the word 'hermeneutics,' focusing on interpreting the Bible accurately.
🔍 Proper interpretation involves learning from Jesus and the apostles, avoiding the distortion of scripture for personal gain.
🤔 Human reasoning plays a role in interpretation, but it must be balanced without sacrificing intellect when reading the Bible.
📚 The reliability of Bible translations and manuscripts can impact our understanding of scripture, especially in historical contexts.
🌍 Understanding cultural context is essential to differentiate what in the Bible is universal and what is culturally relative.
🧬 The relationship between faith and science, particularly in interpreting creation and other teachings, is an important topic.
🛤️ Different methods of interpretation have emerged, including postmodern approaches and Christ-centered interpretations, which focus on Jesus as the hermeneutical key.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the seminar introduced by Frank Hazel?
-The seminar focuses on biblical interpretation, particularly on how Seventh-day Adventists interpret scripture and the principles behind interpreting the Bible correctly and faithfully.
Why do Seventh-day Adventists place a strong emphasis on the Bible?
-Seventh-day Adventists consider themselves 'people of the book' and rely on the Bible for guidance in matters of faith and practice. The Bible serves as the foundation of their faith and determines their beliefs.
Why do Christians, including those within the Adventist Church, sometimes arrive at different conclusions from the same scriptures?
-Differences in interpretation arise because of various presuppositions and approaches to reading the Bible. Even though individuals claim to base their beliefs on scripture, their methods of interpretation can lead to differing, and sometimes contradictory, conclusions.
What is 'hermeneutics,' and why is it important in biblical interpretation?
-Hermeneutics is the science and art of interpreting the Bible. It is derived from the Greek word 'hermannoio,' meaning interpretation. Proper hermeneutics is essential to avoid misinterpretation and distortion of scripture.
What are some challenges people face when interpreting the Bible?
-Challenges include the influence of personal presuppositions, cultural context, and intellectual reasoning. Additionally, there is a risk of twisting scripture to fit personal views or agendas, which can lead to misunderstanding God's intended message.
How does human reason factor into biblical interpretation?
-Human reason plays a role in interpreting scripture, but it must be guided by the Bible itself. The seminar explores how reason and intellect should interact with faith and scripture without compromising the integrity of biblical interpretation.
What are some foundational principles for correct biblical interpretation?
-Foundational principles include allowing scripture to interpret itself, recognizing the cultural context of certain passages, and maintaining a focus on the overall message of the Bible. The seminar also emphasizes a Christ-centered approach to interpretation.
How should history and culture be considered in biblical interpretation?
-History is crucial to understanding scripture, as it provides context for the events and teachings in the Bible. Interpreters must discern what is culturally relative and what is universally applicable from scripture.
What is the role of Ellen White in Adventist biblical interpretation?
-Ellen White, a co-founder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, is regarded as an authoritative figure in Adventist biblical interpretation. The seminar discusses her use of scripture and how her writings influence Adventist theology.
What will participants learn from the seminar on biblical interpretation?
-Participants will learn how Seventh-day Adventists interpret the Bible according to its own principles. They will explore crucial topics such as the role of reason, historical context, Christological interpretation, and how to approach end-time prophecies and modern methods of interpretation.

Outlines

00:00

📖 Introduction to Biblical Interpretation Seminar

Frank Hazel, associate director of the Biblical Research Institute at the Seventh-day Adventist world headquarters, introduces a new seminar on biblical interpretation. He highlights that Seventh-day Adventists have historically valued the Bible as foundational to their faith. However, the varied interpretations even within Christian and Adventist communities raise important questions about how scripture is interpreted correctly. Frank discusses the importance of understanding the process of hermeneutics—biblical interpretation—and avoiding distortions of scripture. He emphasizes that this seminar will explore the factors influencing interpretation and how scripture can guide one's thinking and faith.

05:02

🧐 The Role of Interpretation in Theology and Faith

This paragraph delves deeper into the role of interpretation in shaping theology, faith, and spirituality. Frank raises critical questions about the historical reliability of scripture, the role of cultural context in interpreting biblical principles, and how Adventists approach faith and science, particularly in understanding creation. He highlights the importance of a proper interpretation framework, referencing the Old and New Testament writers and their interpretations. Frank also touches on the role of Adventist pioneers and Ellen White, emphasizing that this seminar will cover modern methods of interpretation and how they impact our understanding of scripture today.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡Biblical Interpretation

Biblical interpretation refers to the process of understanding and explaining the meaning of the Bible's texts. The video emphasizes its importance, particularly for Seventh-day Adventists, as it shapes theology, practice, and mission. The speaker raises questions about why interpretations differ and how one can interpret scripture faithfully.

💡Hermeneutics

Hermeneutics is the theory and methodology of interpretation, especially of biblical texts. It comes from the Greek word 'hermannoeio.' In the seminar, the speaker explores how hermeneutics guides correct and faithful interpretation of the Bible, highlighting its significance in avoiding distortion or misuse of scripture.

💡Seventh-day Adventists

Seventh-day Adventists are a Protestant Christian denomination that holds the Bible as the foundational guide for faith and practice. The video emphasizes the importance of scripture in the Adventist tradition, noting how the Bible has always been central to their beliefs and worldview.

💡Misuse of Scripture

The misuse of scripture involves twisting or distorting its meaning to suit personal agendas or misunderstandings. The video highlights this as a concern, stressing the need for proper hermeneutical approaches to avoid interpretations that lead to confusion or false teachings.

💡Biblical Foundation

The term 'biblical foundation' refers to the idea that the Bible serves as the core authority for Seventh-day Adventists. The video emphasizes that all Adventist beliefs and practices are grounded in the Bible, and a correct interpretation is crucial for maintaining this foundation.

💡Human Reason

Human reason plays a role in biblical interpretation, as discussed in the video. The speaker asks whether intellect needs to be sacrificed when studying the Bible and explores how reason interacts with faith in understanding scripture. It's an essential part of the interpretative process, though it must align with biblical principles.

💡Cultural Relativity

Cultural relativity in biblical interpretation refers to discerning which parts of the Bible are culturally specific to their time and which parts are universal. The video raises questions about how to recognize and interpret culturally relative teachings and apply relevant biblical principles.

💡Prophecy

Prophecy, particularly in the context of Daniel and Revelation, is a significant theme for Adventists. The video touches on how prophecy should be correctly interpreted, including the role of Israel in prophetic fulfillment, and emphasizes understanding both literal and conditional prophecies.

💡Christological Interpretation

A Christological interpretation places Jesus Christ at the center of understanding scripture. The video discusses whether Christ should be used as the key to interpreting biblical texts and whether this approach should critique or shape one's understanding of the Bible's broader message.

💡Ellen White

Ellen White was a co-founder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and is considered a prophetess by its members. The video explores her role in interpreting the Bible, including how her writings are used to understand scripture, and her authority in guiding Adventist theology.

Highlights

Seventh-day Adventists emphasize the Bible as the foundation of their faith and practice, considering themselves 'people of the book.'

The need for proper biblical interpretation arises because Christians, despite relying on the Bible, often arrive at significantly different conclusions.

Within the Adventist Church, there are sometimes contradictory ideas, despite claims that teachings are derived from scripture.

The Greek word for 'interpretation' is 'hermannoio,' which forms the basis of the term 'hermeneutics,' referring to biblical interpretation.

Key questions include how to interpret the Bible correctly and avoid misuse and distortion of scripture.

Factors such as presuppositions and human reasoning influence biblical interpretation.

It is crucial to determine if there is a specific biblical hermeneutic or if the Bible should be studied like any other book.

The reliability of Bible translations and manuscripts can affect our understanding of scripture.

The role of history is vital in understanding scripture and how it informs Adventist theology.

Distinguishing between what is culturally relative and what is universal in scripture requires a text-centered approach.

Science and faith are often viewed as conflicting, but the proper relationship between them is key in interpreting creation and other teachings.

Steps for correct Bible study and interpretation are crucial, including lessons from how New Testament writers used the Old Testament.

Ellen White and early Adventist pioneers' use of scripture holds important insights for modern interpretation.

Recent methods in biblical scholarship, including postmodern approaches, challenge traditional interpretations by shifting meaning from the text to the reader.

A Christological approach, where Jesus Christ is the key to understanding scripture, is highlighted, raising questions about the role of Christ in biblical criticism.