Definition:
Personal interpretation refers to the process by which an individual reads and understands the Scriptures based on their own insights, experiences, and reasoning. This approach emphasizes the role of the individual in discerning the meaning of biblical texts, often without relying heavily on traditional or ecclesiastical interpretations.

Biblical Basis:
The concept of personal interpretation is addressed in the Bible, particularly in the context of prophecy and scriptural understanding. In 2 Peter 1:20-21 , it is written: "Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture comes from one’s own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever brought about through human initiative, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit." This passage suggests that while personal engagement with Scripture is important, the ultimate source of understanding is the Holy Spirit, not merely human insight.

Role of the Holy Spirit:
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in guiding believers to a correct understanding of Scripture. John 16:13 states, "However, when the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. For He will not speak on His own, but He will speak what He hears, and He will declare to you what is to come." This indicates that personal interpretation should be conducted in reliance on the Holy Spirit, who leads believers into truth.

Community and Tradition:
While personal interpretation is valued, it is also important to consider the role of the Christian community and historical tradition in understanding Scripture. Acts 17:11 commends the Bereans for examining the Scriptures daily to verify the teachings they received: "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." This highlights the importance of communal study and verification of personal insights against the broader witness of the church.

Warnings Against Misinterpretation:
Scripture warns against the dangers of misinterpretation and the potential for personal biases to lead to error. 2 Timothy 4:3-4 cautions, "For the time will come when men will not tolerate sound doctrine, but with itching ears they will gather around themselves teachers to suit their own desires. So they will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths." This serves as a reminder that personal interpretation must be grounded in sound doctrine and aligned with the truth of Scripture.

Balancing Personal Insight and Authority:
The balance between personal interpretation and authoritative teaching is a recurring theme in the New Testament. Ephesians 4:11-14 describes the gifts given to the church, including apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, "to equip the saints for works of ministry, to build up the body of Christ, until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God." This passage underscores the importance of teaching and leadership in guiding personal interpretation within the context of the church.

Conclusion:
While personal interpretation is an essential aspect of engaging with Scripture, it must be approached with humility, reliance on the Holy Spirit, and a willingness to be corrected by the broader Christian community and historical teachings.