How the Bible Actually Works

1. The Bible is a book of wisdom, not a rulebook

Wisdom isn't some secret key available only to an elite few, but the exact opposite. Wisdom is a gift from God, liberally available to all.

Wisdom over rules. The Bible's true purpose is not to provide clear, unambiguous instructions for every situation, but to invite readers on a journey of wisdom. This approach acknowledges the complexity of life and the need for interpretation and discernment. The Bible's ambiguity and diversity are features, not bugs, pushing us to engage deeply with its teachings.

Characteristics of biblical wisdom:

• Embraces mystery rather than certitude
• Learned through experience, not passive reception
• Requires trial and error over time
• Encourages risk-taking and letting go of the familiar
• Shapes us for the journey, not just the destination
• Applicable in all times and places
• Gives space for personal growth

2. Biblical laws are ambiguous and require interpretation

Even biblical laws, where one can't be faulted for expecting absolute crystal clarity, invite—even instigate—a lively discussion.

Laws demand wisdom. Contrary to popular belief, biblical laws are not straightforward rules to be blindly followed. They are often ambiguous, requiring interpretation and application to specific situations. This ambiguity is intentional, fostering discussion and deliberation within faith communities.

Examples of ambiguous laws:

• Sabbath observance: What constitutes "work"?
• Honoring parents: To what extent and in what ways?
• Not coveting: Where is the line between admiration and coveting?

The Jewish tradition of legal interpretation (e.g., the Mishnah) demonstrates that engaging with and interpreting laws has always been part of the faith journey. This process of interpretation is itself an act of wisdom, balancing respect for tradition with the need to apply teachings to new contexts.

3. The Bible reflects changing circumstances and reimagining of God

Different voices coexist in the Bible, because the Bible records how writers in their day and in their own way dealt with the antiquity and ambiguity of their sacred tradition.

Adapting tradition for survival. The Bible is not a static document but reflects how people of faith reimagined God and their traditions in response to changing circumstances. This is particularly evident in how the Bible deals with major historical events like the Babylonian exile.

Key examples of reimagining:

• Shift from polytheism to monotheism
• Development of resurrection beliefs
• Changes in understanding of the afterlife
• Reinterpretation of earlier laws and stories

This process of reimagining demonstrates that engaging with tradition creatively is not only permissible but necessary for faith to remain relevant and vital. It shows that God is not bound by past understandings but continues to reveal in new ways.

4. Jesus as the ultimate reimagining of God and tradition

The gospel is also a profoundly creative act—it brings Israel's ancient tradition into a new here and now by (drumroll, please) adjusting the ancient faith to meet present circumstances, a process that began within the Old Testament itself.

Radical reinterpretation. Jesus and his early followers represent the most profound reimagining of God and tradition in the Bible. They reinterpreted key aspects of Jewish faith and practice in light of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.

Major reimaginings in early Christianity:

• Reinterpretation of Messianic expectations
• New understanding of Temple and sacrifice
• Inclusion of Gentiles without full Jewish law observance
• Reinterpretation of Scripture to explain Jesus' significance

This reimagining was not a rejection of tradition but a creative engagement with it, demonstrating that faithfulness can involve significant reinterpretation of inherited beliefs and practices.

5. Paul's letters demonstrate wisdom in action

Paul is reinterpreting the purpose of Torah, because times have changed—Jesus has come. Now Paul has to account for something not accounted for by Israel's tradition: a crucified and risen Messiah.

Contextual interpretation. Paul's letters show us wisdom in action as he grapples with applying the gospel to new situations. He doesn't simply quote Scripture but creatively reinterprets it in light of Christ and the specific contexts he's addressing.

Key aspects of Paul's approach:

• Reinterpretation of Jewish law and traditions
• Application of Old Testament texts to new situations
• Addressing specific community issues with wisdom
• Balancing continuity with tradition and radical reinterpretation

Paul's example encourages us to engage in similar acts of wisdom, creatively applying our faith traditions to new contexts and challenges.

6. Controversial issues require wisdom, not just Bible verses

Accepting the invitation of wisdom as we read Paul for today is a responsibility we can never shed.

Beyond proof-texting. When dealing with controversial issues like slavery, women's roles, or sexuality, simply quoting Bible verses is insufficient. These complex topics require wisdom, careful interpretation, and consideration of changing contexts.

Principles for addressing controversial issues:

• Recognize the Bible's diversity on many topics
• Consider historical and cultural contexts
• Look for underlying principles rather than just specific rules
• Be willing to reinterpret in light of new understandings and contexts
• Engage in respectful dialogue with those who differ

Wisdom involves recognizing that faithfulness may sometimes mean moving beyond literal applications of certain texts to deeper principles of love, justice, and human dignity.

7. Reimagining God is a sacred responsibility for each generation

Christians today, living when and where we are, have no choice but to be intentional in following the Bible and the entire history of Christianity in accepting the sacred responsibility to ask how we can talk about God in a way that is both connected to the tradition and meaningful for today.

Ongoing reimagination. Each generation of believers has the responsibility and opportunity to reimagine God and faith in ways that are both faithful to tradition and relevant to their context. This is not a betrayal of tradition but a continuation of the biblical pattern.

Elements of responsible reimagining:

• Deep engagement with Scripture and tradition
• Awareness of current cultural and intellectual contexts
• Willingness to ask difficult questions
• Openness to new insights and understandings
• Balance between continuity and change

This process of reimagining is challenging but also liberating, allowing faith to remain vital and meaningful in changing times. It requires wisdom, humility, and courage, trusting that God continues to speak and reveal in new ways.

Last updated: January 24, 2025