It is a dangerous thing when the Bible student lifts passages out of their context. Many have likened this to taking a conversation spoken by someone and removing a sentence or two in order to prove a point, despite the general teaching of the speech or conversation. I have heard many times by wise Gospel preachers the saying: “When the text is lifted out of context, you are left with a pretext.” Certainly, if we hold any amount of value to God’s word, we will be those who treat the His Book with the upmost reverence and adoration. Here are a few passages to consider as you think and pray on the subject.
The sum of thy word is truth; And every one of thy righteous ordinances endureth for ever. (Psa. 119:160 ASV) -- Certainly, we believe the Bible to be True. But when we single out a verse or passage even, and it is not properly placed in it’s context, we do not have all of God’s Truth on the matter. When someone finds a sum, they are finding a figure that is a result of all other numbers in the equation being added up to form that single number. The sum of Gods word is the addition of all that God says on a particular topic or issue. After all is considered and added together, then one can say, “This is the Truth of the matter.”
Give diligence to present thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, handling aright the word of truth. (2 Tim. 2:15 ASV) -- It is very easy to become lazy or flippant with God’s word. We can develop a sense of familiarity toward it and dull ourselves to the gravity of the thing at hand. When we read His word and we teach it or study, it is a very serious thing that requires a lot of care and attention. We must be those who are dedicated to the proper handling (dividing, KJV) of His word, that we can stand before Him as one who is not ashamed but approved.
God bless you and your studies this upcoming week. May you dedicate your days to Him in humble submission, prayer, and feasting upon His word. And remember to share what you learned with others that they might share in the blessing of the fruits of your studies!