How can we avoid misinterpretations of Scripture like those in Mark 15:35? Setting the scene in Mark 15:35 “ ‘Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?’ ” Jesus cried (Mark 15:34). Those nearby misunderstood: “ “When some of those standing nearby heard this, they said, ‘Behold, He is calling Elijah!’ ” (Mark 15:35). They heard “Eloi” and assumed “Elijah,” missing both the Aramaic phrase and the Psalm 22 reference. What went wrong in their hearing? • Partial listening—catching a single word instead of the whole sentence • Lack of familiarity with Scripture’s broader storyline (Psalm 22) • Cultural assumptions: popular belief expected Elijah’s return (Malachi 4:5) • No effort to confirm before repeating the conclusion Principles to guard against misinterpretation • Pay attention to the full context—words, sentences, and setting • Compare Scripture with Scripture (Luke 24:27; 1 Corinthians 2:13) • Remember the Old Testament background that the New Testament fulfills • Distinguish similar-sounding terms; verify with reliable translations and basic language tools • Refuse to let tradition override the text itself (Mark 7:8-13) Practical steps for daily study 1. Read the passage several times—aloud if possible—to catch every word 2. Note immediate context (verses before and after) and larger context (book theme) 3. Trace cross-references listed in a good Bible or software 4. Look up key words in a concordance or interlinear to see original meanings 5. Consult at least two literal translations; the is a solid baseline 6. Summarize the author’s flow of thought in your own words before drawing conclusions 7. Check your interpretation against historic, doctrinally sound commentaries 8. Apply the text only after understanding it; avoid speculation not anchored in the passage Scriptures that reinforce these safeguards • “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, an unashamed worker who accurately handles the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15) • “Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” (Acts 17:11) • “Every word of God is flawless; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him.” (Proverbs 30:5) Closing encouragement Misinterpretations like the one at the cross need not repeat themselves. Careful, context-driven reading, a willingness to compare passages, and humble submission to the plain sense of Scripture keep us anchored in the truth God has perfectly revealed. |
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