Our various prayer and study groups around the Word of God might be considered a continuation of the proclamation of the Word of God at Mass ad in the other sacraments. I would like to share the directions the Catholic Church gives us for the interpretations of Sacred Scripture. We must always avoid falling into the error of fundamentalism. Unfortunately, over the years I have seen that happen in some groups.
The Scriptures are the Word of God in the words of human beings written under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.
The meaning of a text is what the author meant and not the meaning the reader superimposes.
The cultural context at the time of writing influences the meaning of a text. The author was influenced by the culture of his times.
The literary style enters into the understanding of the text. A parable is not the same as a historical narrative. The Psalms are poetry and prayer. The Epistles are letters that also contain poetry and prayer.
Law is another genre. The 10 Commandments are Laws for all ages while the ritual and dietary laws of the Old Testament no longer apply to us.
Wisdom literature is advice and guidance at times culturally influenced.
The Gospels are the proclamation of Jesus Christ.
An important tool for Bible study and prayer groups is a good up-to-date Catholic Bible with commentary and perhaps a Catholic commentary. There are many useful Catholic study Bibles available.
This little article is in no way a complete or in-depth treatise on biblical interpretation. More next time.
Saint James Catholic Church 