Bible Class Teaches Comprehensive Method To Interpret Scripture
In Harrison Kravat’s 8th Grade Bible class, students spend much of the year learning how to properly interpret Scripture. They discover numerous different aspects to consider when interpreting a passage such as observing sentences and paragraphs, context, genre, meaning, application, and more.
Mr. Kravat explains that his approach revolves around a method of interpretation called The Interpretive Journey. “This interpretive method basically treats studying Scripture as though it is a journey from the context of the biblical audience to the student’s own context. The journey starts with the student reading the passage and ends with the student applying the author-intended meaning of the passage to him or herself. It consists of 5 Steps, each step named after a portion of the journey and each step answering a crucial question involved in studying the passage. The ultimate goal in the journey is for the students to be able to read a passage, understand the author-intended meaning of the passage, put that meaning (foundational truth) through the lens of Christ, then apply the foundational truth to their own lives.”
Recently, the students completed an exercise studying 1 Timothy 6:17-19. After they finished, the students were able to understand that the passage is about wealthy Christians in Timothy's congregation that were placing their hope in their wealth and using their wealth for themselves rather than to glorify the Lord through generosity. Then, they took that truth and applied it to their lives.
Mr. Kravat says initially, the interpretive method might seem that it would be overwhelming for 8th graders. But he explains that he’s breaking it into small pieces to help them understand it more. And so far, he is impressed with their progress. “I think it's really starting to click in some areas, so praise the Lord!”