The Bible, while filled with wisdom and guidance, can sometimes be difficult to comprehend. Many verses in the Bible are written in ways that can seem confusing, unclear, or even contradictory.
However, approaching these verses with the right mindset and tools can help bring clarity.
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding” (Proverbs 2:6).
This verse reminds us that seeking wisdom from God is vital in interpreting the Bible.
Read the Context of the Verse
When faced with a verse that is difficult to understand, it’s important to look at the context in which it is written. The Bible is filled with different genres, such as poetry, history, and prophecy.
Understanding the context helps to clarify the meaning of a verse.
For example, if you come across a verse in Psalms that speaks of the mountains skipping like rams, it’s not meant to be taken literally but as poetic language.
“The mountains skipped like rams, the hills like lambs” (Psalm 114:4).
Reading the verses before and after can provide insight into the main point the author is making. In many cases, the surrounding verses will help explain the difficult verse.
Consider the Original Language
The Bible was written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. Over time, these languages have been translated into various versions of the Bible we read today.
Sometimes, words in the original language carry meanings that are lost in translation.
For example, the Greek word “agape” is often translated as “love,” but it refers to a deep, selfless love. Knowing the original language can shed light on the more profound meanings behind certain words.
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want” (Psalm 23:1).
In the original Hebrew, the term “want” means “lack.” This gives us a deeper understanding of the verse, as it means the Lord provides for everything we need.
Use Cross-Referencing
The Bible often explains itself. Many verses in the Bible have cross-references that can help explain difficult verses.
These references are other verses that either repeat the same message or provide additional details to enhance the understanding.
For example, John 3:16, which says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son,” can be cross-referenced with other verses like 1 John 4:9, which reads, “This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.”
By comparing these verses, we can better understand the depth of God’s love.
Seek the Help of Biblical Commentaries
Biblical commentaries are written by scholars who have spent years studying the Bible. These commentaries can be a great help in interpreting difficult verses.
They provide historical background, cultural context, and detailed explanations of the text.
While commentaries should not replace reading the Bible itself, they can offer valuable insights that can help make sense of challenging verses.
One well-known commentary is Matthew Henry’s Commentary, which provides an in-depth look at each verse in the Bible.
Pray for Insight
One of the most powerful ways to understand difficult Bible verses is to pray. Ask God for wisdom and clarity as you read the Scriptures.
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him” (James 1:5).
God desires that we grow in our knowledge of His word. By praying before and during your study, you invite the Holy Spirit to help illuminate the meanings behind difficult verses.
Understanding difficult Bible verses is not always immediate, but with patience, careful study, and reliance on God, clarity can be gained.
Remember to always read the context, consider the original language, use cross-references, consult commentaries, and pray for guidance.
Over time, the Lord will reveal deeper meanings and understanding through the Scriptures.