In reading through the Bible, we are amazed at how the broader context of a passage deepens our understanding and whets our appetite for further study. On the other hand, when a passage is divorced from its context, it often becomes little more than a proof-text, leaving us open to possible misapplication. Therefore, in our study of God’s word, we should be diligent to carefully observe the context of each passage under consideration.
As an example, consider the Sadducees who were held up by the people as influential spiritual leaders of the day. Jesus rebuked them, saying, “You are mistaken, not understanding the Scriptures nor the power of God” (Mt. 22:29). A look at the context reveals that they had crystalized their beliefs (or unbelief) in the resurrection without giving due consideration to the total body of teaching given in the Scriptures.
However, the Bereans were commended as being “more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so” (Acts 17:11). They were checking out the teaching they received from Paul and Silas by comparing it with what had been written in the Law and Prophets. When properly considered, context sheds valuable light on the meaning of God’s word.
Because we are letters “known and read by all men…” (2 Cor. 3:2), context is likewise important when others interpret the message of our lives. When our lives contradict our message, people will choose to believe what they see rather than what they hear. Jesus says, “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Mt. 5:16). Let the context of your life, as seen in what you do and say, confirm your message rather than deny it.
Glen Elliott