November 6, 2016

What is the difference between eisegesis and exegesis? Which approach is right?

Susan thank you for your question. How we approach the Scriptures determines our relationship with GOD and it is integral to our worship of Him. Our Statement of Faith states the Scriptures are true, authoritative and sufficient (Psalm 19:7-11; 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20-21). Meaning that what the scriptures say about Who GOD is, What He is doing, and What He promises to do are perfectly and sufficiently true. They are designed to be the final authority on all matters in life and godliness. If this is true then it matters how we handle them. As you will see the definition of Eisegesis and exegesis alone will answer your question “Which approach is right?”

Eisegesis happens when their is a reading into a text; meaning that is not supported by the grammar, syntax, lexical meanings, and over-all context of the original.

Exegesis is when you read out of the text its original meaning by careful attention to grammar, syntax, the lexical meanings of the words used by the author (as they were used in his day and in his area), and the over-all context of the document.

As we approach the Word of GOD we need to be careful to not approach with pride or the wrong motives. We do not use the word to get things done in our churches our groups; rather GOD uses the word to get His work done in us. The word is not something to master it is something to be mastered by so we approach it with great humility, great submission, and great care. We need to be careful that we don’t put our own ideas and motives into any particular text or passage.

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