Fundamental Principles of Interpretation:

  • Approach in humility and dependence on God as Teacher – Matt. 11:25
  • Learn not to think beyond what is written – 1 Cor. 4:7; Deut. 29:29
  • 2-3 Witnesses – Deuteronomy; John 8; 2 Cor. 13
  • Bible defines Bible – Matt. 4, Westminster Confession
    • Example: today, people think God can’t be loving because He acts a certain way.  The problem is that they are inserting the world’s definition of love into the Bible to make judgment calls. Instead, the Bible says that God IS the definition of love.  It is impossible for Him not to be “love”.  And biblical love looks different than the world’s love.

“Hot” Passages 

  • 1 Pet. 1
  • Eph. 1 – predestined…to a position: “In Him”
  • Rom. 8
  • Rom. 9-11 – deals with nations, not individuals (though has bearing on individuals)
    • multiple passages show choice, as well as predestination
    • Rom. 11:33

General Theme of Scripture: God controls all things, People make choices with consequences

Conclusion: Rom. 11:33

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