Apprentice 2 Jesus

Learning to Interpret Scripture

This past weekend we had the privilege of hearing from one of my favorite seminary professors, Dr. Walter Sundberg. He is a historian and a good one at that.

His thoughts centered on learning how to understand Scripture. Being a historian, he drew on the thoughts of Augustine. The desire is to gain wisdom. In wisdom we will walk in the power of the gospel: Love God and love the neighbor. Gaining wisdom comes from understanding Scripture.

1. Fear God

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. We need to reflect on our own mortality from time to time. We are not God. Walk in a reverent fear of the Lord.

2. Meekness

It is not about being a “doormat” for Jesus. It is about being honest. To be meek is to say, “I don’t know.” The only time I knew everything was when I graduated high school. It’s been all downhill ever since. My oldest since graduated high school this year. If I need to know something, he can tell me.

3. Knowledge of the self

We just don’t want to get into self examination too much. We find out we really don’t love God and we would like to kill our neighbor from time to time. But when we come to that realization we are ready for the next step.

4. Change

We are sinners in need of a Savior. We need to change. FORTITUDE is the enduring will to extract oneself from evil habits. We have the power of the Spirit to help us. We must act, though.

5. Counsel of mercy

We learn from the times we GIVE. Paul said it best: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Learn from those times when you gave. We get those opportunities everyday. Learn from them.

6. Cleansing

Augustine would use this in the context of sacrifice. The monastic movement was big in his day. Dr. Sundberg took it a step further for our day.

We are cleansed through our relationships. When we quit accumulating stuff and learn that giving to others and building relationships is important, we are set free.

7. Wisdom

We then see God’s hand in our lives. The Word can come alive.

Lord, help us to be people of the Book!