Class 6: Studying Difficult Passages and Familiar Passages

I. Studying Difficult Passages

   A. Why are passages often difficult?

      1. Culture Gap

      2. Apparent Contradiction

      3. Mystery

   B. Four Principles

      1. Pray

      2. Examine the Context

      3. Let Scripture Interpret Scripture

         (1) Diagnose the difficulty

         (2) Find relevant passages

         (3) Synthesize

      4. Ask for help

II. Studying Familiar Passages

   A. Five Principles

      1. Pray

      2. Don't Assume, Ask

      3. Search for Surprises

      4. Meditate

      5. Express