A Life-Changing Class

Shortly after becoming a Christian, I read verses on Christian discipleship and immediately concluded that good works were required to maintain my salvation. Those passages included James 2:14, James 2:17, and Matthew 7:19.

I did not know anything about proper biblical interpretation at the time, so I read God’s Word and interpreted passages based on what I assumed they meant. This dangerous practice ultimately stunted my spiritual growth because I lived in constant fear of God rejecting me for not serving Him perfectly.

But all that changed when I took Hermeneutics in Bible college!

I remember sitting in class astonished as my professor unveiled the rules for proper Bible interpretation. Some of his points are still etched in my memory forever: 

• “Scripture can never mean to us what it never meant to them.”

• “Scripture must be interpreted according to its historical, grammatical, and surrounding context.”

• “We must let Scripture interpret Scripture.”

 This Hermeneutics class was life-changing. It led me to discover sound doctrine, unveiled the essentials of the Christian faith, and eradicated my fears—instilling a greater appreciation for Ephesians 2:8-9. It also helped ignite a passion within me for teaching God’s Word and defending the faith against falsehood.

What about you? What experience contributed to your passion for Jesus or helping others know Him and His Word? I would love to hear about it in the comments,.