APPLICATION AND INTERPRETATION

The meaning we look for in biblical passages always comes as a pair that cannot be separated from each other: interpretation and application. One of the most common mistakes Bible readers make is failing to recognize the difference between the two. In fact, these two are often interchanged. Usually, when we say “meaning,” we always refer to interpretation, which is fine. But today, we will include application when we talk about meaning, because all of us study the Bible with the intent of applying it to our lives. Let’s first look at their differences:

According to Understanding and Applying the Scriptures (McCain and Keener, 2012), here are the points we need to understand about interpretation and application:

1. Interpretation focuses on the past. Application focuses on the present.
2. Interpretation focuses on what a passage says. Application focuses on what a passage means.
3. Interpretation deals with theory. Application deals with practice.
4. Interpretation deals primarily with the mind. Application deals primarily with the will.
5. Interpretation is relatively simple. Application is often very difficult.(Note: Interpretation can also be challenging, but compared to application, it is easier. Many passages are easy to understand but difficult to apply.)
6. Interpretation is often agreed upon quickly. People from diverse backgrounds usually agree on what a passage says. However, application—since it affects people’s lives—tends to be more controversial.
7. Interpretation focuses on the original meaning. Application focuses on how the original meaning fits into our particular culture.
8. Interpretation focuses on what the original writer was thinking and how the original reader understood the communication. Application focuses on how that communication should be viewed and responded to by the contemporary believer.
9. Interpretation is the job of the theologian. Application is the job of the preacher.
10. Interpretation is always first. Application is always second.
11. Interpretation is necessary. Application is just as necessary.

CASE STUDY: HOLY KISS

To understand this more clearly, let’s take Paul’s instruction as an example: “Greet one another with a holy kiss.” (Rom 16:16; 1 Cor 16:20; 2 Cor 13:12; 1 Thes 5:26).

Interpretation: What does “holy kiss” mean? During that time, a light kiss on the lips was the standard form of intimate greeting. Family members and close friends did this regardless of gender. Obviously, this is the practice Paul was referring to when he instructed his readers, since it was common to their culture.

Application: How do we apply this today? Should it be the same for us now? Obviously not, since a lips-to-lips kiss is not the common greeting! This proves that we cannot directly apply Paul’s instruction literally because our culture is different. In our case, greetings are usually expressed through a simple handshake or a pat on the shoulder (sometimes not even that—just a casual, “Hey, how are you?”). Since this is the way we greet each other, this is also the way we should practice Paul’s instruction. The purpose of the command is for believers to treat one another as family, not to require everyone to kiss each other when they meet. This shows that while interpretation must remain strict and accurate, application can vary depending on the context.

The correct interpretation must be established first before determining the right application. Obviously, if you misunderstand a passage, you will also misapply it. The impact of interpretation is seen in application. A right understanding of Scripture will always lead to right practice. And right practice is always rooted in right understanding.

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The Bible is a practical book. It claims to be useful: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Tim 3:16–17). If we want to benefit more from our Bibles, we must learn to see the connection between interpretation and application. It may be challenging, but this is the proper and safest way to truly benefit from studying Scripture. Stay Curious.