Where did they get that?
Where did they get that?
No one likes to have their words taken out of context. This happens a lot today and especially when someone is interviewed by the media. Because they cannot possibly publish all of the words that were spoken, an interviewer will often pick and choose which quotes he wants to publish. This can lead to misunderstandings of what was actually said.
We all laugh at the time when Luke, John-Keith, and Nathan were interviewed about their 4-H animals during our county fair. They were so excited about the possibility of having their picture in the local paper. The next day when they unrolled the daily publication, all three were thrilled to find their faces smiling from the page . . . until they saw the caption underneath. All of us, except John-Keith, broke into laughter when we saw it read, “Luke Sheridan, Nathan Sheridan, and their friend John.” Where did the reporter get that? Somewhere in the interpretation, the journalist misheard the names and relationships (sorry, John-Keith).
There was no harm done with this funny mistake, but it is a different matter when we take God’s words out of context. Every one of God’s words, as recorded in the Scripture, were written by men who were under the control of the Holy Spirit. They did not write down their own thoughts and feelings, but only what God told them to record.
When we read the Bible we must be very careful to ensure that we are understanding what the words mean according to the context of the passage. We will get ourselves into trouble if we quote a random verse and act upon it when we do not study the surrounding verses to ensure a clear interpretation.
Another important fact to keep in mind is that God’s Word, though written in sixty-six books, is one whole story. Always consider the immediate context of the passage along with the broader context of the whole Bible. God’s word never contradicts itself, so interpret Scripture with other Scripture.
Don’t make the Bible a matter of your own interpretation. Study God’s Word carefully and you will show yourself “before God as a proven worker who does not need to be ashamed, teaching the message of truth accurately” (2 Timothy 2:15). And you might even develop the makings of a good reporter. 🙂
Love,
Mama
Hi, I'm Sandy!
I write inspirational letters based on the Bible that share words of hope, encouragement, truth, and healing to my children and anyone else who longs for a mama's touch.
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