How to work with specific genres found in the Scripture: narratives, epistles, gospels, prophecy, poetry, etc.
Understanding Epistles
Every genre found in the Bible presents unique challenges for understanding. Here are guidelines for studying epistles.
Understanding Prophecy
Studying biblical prophecy is an often overwhelming task. Much of it is written in Hebrew poetry. The names and places are foreign, and the metaphors don’t always resonate with our modern ears. Yet we can usually understand the main point. If studying an Old Testament prophet overwhelms you, here are some tips to get you started.
Understanding Narratives
Narratives are true stories. Over 40% of the Old Testament Scriptures are narratives. Generally, the purpose of a biblical narrative is to show the Lord at work in His creation. Every genre found in the Bible presents unique challenges for understanding. Narratives are no exception. With narratives we think in scenes, plot and character, rather than paragraphs and outlines.
Understanding Hebrew Poetry
The key to understanding Hebrew poetry and Wisdom Literature is knowing that the “rhyme” of ideas is more important than the sounds. This “rhyming” of ideas is called parallelism.
Understanding Apocalyptic literature
Apocalyptic literature is a sub-category of prophecy. The name comes from the Greek word apocalypsis which means uncovering or unveiling.
Understanding the Gospels
The gospels are unique in content, although they are similar in form to ancient biographies.
Psalms of Thanksgiving: Their form
75% of Psalms are 1 of three main types: lament, thanksgiving or praise. Here is the general form for Thanksgiving psalms.
Psalms of Lament: Their form
75% of Psalms are 1 of three main types: lament, thanksgiving or praise. Here is the general form for lament psalms.
Psalms of Praise: Their form
75% of Psalms are 1 of three main types: lament, thanksgiving or praise. Here is the general form for praise psalms.
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