Interpreting the Bible

The third principle essential for interpreting the bible is based on the priority to read and analyze the scriptures for its plain and obvious meaning. In most cases, it is believed that the real message contained in the Bible is hidden and it requires as a gift or spiritual nourishment to understand the scriptures in depth.  The Bible uses both figurative and symbolic language to present spiritual quotes to the reader; however, it assumed that these languages are clear to the readers. A person may not be able to know the places, people and events being talked about in the Bible but can still grasp the message conveyed in the scriptures. The use of either figurative or symbolic language usually represents the plain message about the scripture. For example, in Mathew 7:13, Jesus said, “Why do you complain about the splinter in your brother’s eye when you have a plank in your eye?” It can be seen that the figurative language still explains the plain truth and what it means to the reader, therefore, individuals find no trouble to comprehend the verse.

Another principle important for interpreting the Bible is the ability to identify different theological themes that are used in the text. A single text may contain various significant theological themes besides the intended one. When interpreting the Bible, it is vital to analyze different applications of the text alongside the theological approach. It is recommended to structure a diagram with observations to identify various themes and what the text says about them. This helps the reader to understand the message and make references where necessary. Readers should locate these themes in the text and know how they relate to the general content.

A recent study of born-again adult believers shows that most acknowledge that spiritual formation or development is a primary responsibility of a follower of Christ and may be a helpful endeavor; however, they do not feel that it is a pressing need in their lives because they think that they have mostly mastered the concepts of the Christian faith.[1] Making disciples is the ultimate goal of all believers.  It is what Jesus commanded His followers to do before He ascended to heaven.  He stated in Matthew 28:19a, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.”  When considering discipleship, one must ask the question, “How does this happen?”  Discipleship is not a one-time event.  Discipleship is a lifestyle of learning and growing in the things of God as Paul said in Philippians 3:12.  It is a constant process of being trained and mentored by an individual or a collective effort of a group of people.  For the church to fulfill the Great Commission of Jesus and make disciples of all nations a thorough understanding of discipleship, education, and spiritual formation and how they interact with each other must be ascertained.

A comprehensive plan for spiritual entails selecting individuals who represent a true disciple. In this case, a person should be ready to become a competent follower of Jesus and understand the role of a servant. Jesus Himself through His disciples on how to show humility and to be prepared to serve others instead of enjoying the privileges of a master. As a leader of the organization, I will ensure that individuals participating in Christian discipleship understand the Bible and have the ability to relate different theological themes.  The vocational setting in my ministry will ensure that each person practices the teachings and directives of the Bible. A successful discipleship formation involves learning, and this helps to induce spiritual discipline and attitude towards spreading the gospel.

I will choose people who are willing to learn new ways of evangelizing and serving others in society. Individuals must have a conscious mind to make a choice, whether or not they should follow Jesus.  A proper discipleship formation require education since it is a process. As a result, I will encourage Christian willing to become followers of Jesus to attain spiritual growth through active learning. It is advisable for the followers to have a theological reflection about their ways of life and promise to remain faithful to Jesus. Spiritual formation is an essential pillar of discipleship. Most successful churches with a strong team of disciples demonstrate a high philosophical ministry among the followers.  According to the Bible, people move from one glory to another through spiritual growth or formation which should be practiced by the flowers of Jesus.

Christians should have a better understanding of discipleship, spiritual growth and education, and these elements define a true disciple.  An effective plan should encourage individuals to exercise all three components. It is hard for s person to practice discipleship without possessing education, this is because it helps to nurture and the act of discipleship. A faithful follower of Jesus needs to have a spiritual formation which helps in bounding him or her to the religious teachings.

 
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