How can we guard against personal interpretation of prophecy in our Bible study?

◄ Prevent bias in prophecy interpretation? ►

The Root Passage

“Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture comes from one’s own interpretation.” (2 Peter 1:20)

Remember the Divine Author

• Prophecy is “spoken from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit” (2 Peter 1:21).

• Because its origin is divine, its meaning must also be divinely defined (Isaiah 55:8-9).

• Our task is discovery, not creativity.

Let Scripture Interpret Scripture

• Clear passages illuminate difficult ones (Psalm 119:130).

• Jesus modeled this by weaving texts together to explain prophecy (Luke 24:27).

• Cross-references protect us from isolating a verse and forcing a meaning on it.

Submit to the Whole Counsel of God

• “All Scripture is God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16), so no single text may be treated as a private island.

• Harmonize every prophetic detail with the broader biblical storyline—creation, fall, redemption, restoration.

Depend on the Spirit, Not Speculation

• The same Spirit who inspired Scripture guides understanding (John 16:13).

• Prayerful, humble reliance guards against fanciful theories (Proverbs 3:5-6).

• Fleshly curiosity is restrained by spiritual discernment (1 Corinthians 2:12-14).

Stay Within the Faith Community

• “Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others weigh what is said” (1 Corinthians 14:29).

• Counsel from mature believers, historic creeds, and sound teachers provides needed checks (Ephesians 4:11-14).

• Private interpretations fade under communal scrutiny (Acts 17:11).

Test All Things Against Clear Teaching

• “Do not despise prophecies, but test all things; hold fast to what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:20-21).

• Prophetic understanding must never contradict plain doctrines—deity of Christ, bodily resurrection, salvation by grace, etc.

• When a prophetic view distorts essentials, reject it (Galatians 1:8-9).

Practical Steps for Everyday Study

1. Read the immediate context three times before forming conclusions.

2. Compare parallel passages and note repeated themes.

3. Consult reliable commentaries after personal observation, not before.

4. Record interpretations in pencil—ready to erase if Scripture proves otherwise.

5. Share insights with trusted believers and invite correction.

6. Revisit the passage over time; truth will endure, errors will surface.