Read One More Verse

Often in Scripture, things are not as they seem at first glance. Unfortunately, too many of us stop with the first glance. We practice "Bible Roulette" and grab one verse at a time without considering what the author meant.

Context is the tool for this in Bible study. This is the second most important principle in understanding the Bible. The most important truth is the Bible was not written for us, it applies to us. But, that is for another post! 

Context is reading five to ten verses around the verse in question. Ideally one would read the entire book or letter, but at a minimum the surrounding verses.

Sometimes, things change if we read one more verse.

Here are three examples where we see viewing only part of the picture is not an accurate representation. 

1. Wives Submit to Husbands - Ephesians 5:22

"Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord." 

Much has been made of this verse in marital relations. Yet, we must consider one verse prior to this for the entire thought. 

Verse 21 says  "submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ." 

Wives submitting must be considered in light of "all submitting to all." This might bring multiple views on the marriage issue.  

2. The Unforgivable Sin - Mark 3:29

"but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin"

Countless Christians have worried they have committed the unpardonable sin.