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Greetings!
Some people try to defend their readings of Scripture, readings that diverge widely from the historic faith and understanding of the church, by saying that their readings are merely different interpretations and therefore must be permitted and received.
But the church's confessions of faith have long anticipated this and warned against it.
The Second Helvetic Confession declares:
"THE TRUE INTERPRETATION OF SCRIPTURE. The apostle Peter has said that the Holy Scriptures are not of private interpretation (II Peter 1:20), and thus we do not allow all possible interpretations. . . . We hold that interpretation of the Scripture to be orthodox and genuine which is gleaned from the Scriptures themselves (from the nature of the language in which they were written, likewise according to the circumstances in which they were set down, and expounded in the light of like and unlike passages and of many and clearer passages) and which agree with the rule of faith and love, and contributes much to the glory of God and man's salvation" (Chapter II, BOC 5.010).
Yes, there are many possible interpretations of Scripture. The church has known this for centuries. But no, the church does not allow all possible interpretations! Not all interpretations are good, accurate, faithful, and helpful.
What are the standards for good interpretations? Good interpretations must come from the Scriptures themselves and thus be informed by, and in agreement with, the broad sweep of the Scriptures. Conversely, interpretations of Scripture that are out of accord with the Scriptures are to be rejected.
Good interpretations must agree with "the rule of faith." This means the historic and orthodox faith of the church, as articulated in the Nicene Creed. Any interpretation that, for instance, denies the divinity of Christ must be rejected.
Good interpretations must agree with "the rule of . . . love." This means the Great Commandment: "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:37-39).
Good interpretations must contribute much to the glory of God, not detract from it.
And good interpretations must contribute much to human salvation, not detract from it.
So, we would do well to remember from the confessional heritage of the church: "We do not allow all possible interpretations."
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 The Foundation for Reformed Theology is committed to the study, recovery, and application of the historic faith and theology of the church for building up the church of Jesus Christ today. Thank you for helping us to do this.
DonateGrace and Peace,
Dr. James C. Goodloe IV, Executive
Director
Foundation for Reformed Theology
4103 Monument Avenue
Richmond, Virginia 23230
Better Preaching, Teaching, and Pastoral Care
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