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Scriptural Authority and Theological Interpretation
Amy Meade
Department of Psychology, Liberty University
PSYC 420: Psychology and Christianity
Dr. Gilbert Franco
June 19, 2023
To be able to understand the word of God, scriptural authority and theological
interpretation play an extremely significant role. Scriptural authority is the amount of
consideration that Christians have towards the Mosaic Laws and how they take precedence over
anthropoids’ credence and behaviors (Entwistle, 2015). Theological interpretation examines the
procedure of biblical explication which is based upon a multitude of factors such as assumptions,
queries, and the wonder of the purpose behind listening to the voice of God (Entwistle, 2015).
Importantly, a distinction should be made to alleviate human error within biblical interpretation
by learning to set apart theological presupposition and holy writ. An understanding of God being
the ultimate genesis of guidance is essential to be able to grasp a true explanation of
ecclesiastical scripture.
Understanding the differences within scriptural authority and theological interpretation of
scripture is a crucial element of discerning how humankind can create flaws within interpreting
the word of God and his instruction. Though the Bible is commanding, it is of human nature to
make mistakes in attempt of interpreting the gospel (Entwistle, 2015). One thing that aids in
propelling this argument is that of the consecrated scriptures. The conception of this argument is
that the understanding can only stem from the sacred spirit, as the Holy Bible is inspired by God.
The Bible also expresses that all scripture is God breathed and can be utilized to teach and
rebuke righteousness in the servants of God, as to ensure that they are qualified in carrying out
the work and word of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17, English Standard Version). Another element that
lays the foundation that the distinction between scriptural authority and theological interpretation
is one that plays a significant role, God’s order, the enchiridion, as it demands divine exposition.
In separating scriptural authority and theological interpretation allows Christians to
utilize the Bible to discover the truthfulness within the scripture. The scripture is an accurate
depiction of everything that is explained, though this does not correspond with noting that it
teaches truth in all areas (Entwistle, 2015). The way of Christian understanding is based upon the
Bible and its teachings, and this regards the Bible as a source of truth, through the word of God.
If the Bible is viewed through a truthful standpoint, in its teachings and explanations, then the
distinction between scriptural authority and theological interpretation can be made. These
distinctions can also aid Christians to form appreciation of how one thing can lead to something
better and vice versa.
If one does not form the idea that there is a difference between scriptural authority and
theological interpretation, it depreciates clarification, and the influence clarification has on
doctrinal reasoning (Entwistle, 2015). Scriptural authority is also recognized within the ten
commandments that are laid out by God, it is also important to recognize that the scripture also
discusses and promotes that humankind should obey the word of God rather than that of other
humankind (Acts 5:28, English Standard Version). Moreover, by following the commandments
of the almighty God, it creates a notion that point Christians to form a better understanding of the
scripture.
Overall, there proves to a significant distinction between scriptural authority and
theological interpretation. The distinctions between these two helps to aid Christians in
understanding where there are weaknesses present in humankind as well as presenting that there
is a deep truth that resides within the Bible.
References
Bible gateway passage: Proverbs 3:5-6 - English standard version. Bible Gateway. (n.d.).
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+3%3A5-6&version=ESV
Entwistle, D. N. (2015). In Integrative approaches to psychology and Christianity: An
introduction to worldview issues, philosophical foundations, and models of integration.
essay, Cascade Books.
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