WHAT IS THE TRUE MEANING OF RIGHTLY DIVIDING THE WORD OF TRUTH ACCORDING TO THE BIBLE?

INTRODUCTION 

One of the most common types of abuse which has not yet found many people to voice against as with sexual and drug abuse, is the "textual abuse" of scripture. 

The Bible is the most abused book on earth, and if it was a human it would have been dead from abuse countless times. 

Our theme on this blog "LET THE BIBLE SPEAK," is the cry of a doctrinal watchman to free the gentle Voice of the bible from being suffocated by loud shouts of diverse human opinions. 

We have abused the Bible even on the very meaning of what it is to rightly divide the Word of truth! What does is it really mean? 🤔 

2 Timothy 2:15 (KJV) says, "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."

This verse emphasizes the importance of diligent study and presenting oneself to God as an approved worker. 

It highlights the idea of being tested and proven through trials, with the goal of being unashamed and capable of accurately interpreting and skillfully teaching the word of truth.

2 Timothy 2:15 (Amplified) says, "Study and do your best to present yourself to God approved, a workman [tested by trial] who has no reason to be ashamed, accurately handling and skillfully teaching the word of truth."

Rightly dividing the word of truth refers to correctly interpreting and understanding the Scriptures. The phrase "rightly dividing" comes from the Greek word "orthotomeo," which can be understood as "cutting straight." 

This metaphorical language draws from the practice of cutting straight paths or roads to ensure a clear and direct route. In the same way, Paul advises Timothy to diligently handle the Scriptures, carefully discerning their intended meaning and accurately teaching and applying them. 

This is different from forcing Scriptures to fit into a narrative that supports one's biased view.

CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL CONTEXT 

To understand the full meaning of this phrase, it is important to consider the cultural and historical context in which Paul advised Timothy. During the time of Paul and Timothy, the early Christian community faced various challenges and controversies. 

False teachings and heresies about the resurrection claiming that it had already happened in the past were spreading from Hymenaeus and Philetus, causing confusion and division among believers, and overthrowing the faith of some. 

2 Timothy 2:11-14 (KJV) says, "It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him: If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself... But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus; Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some. Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers."

In this context, Paul encouraged Timothy to diligently study and accurately handle the Scriptures to ensure sound doctrine and unity within the church. This shows us the great danger of NOT rightly dividing the Word of truth as overthrowing the faith of some. Phew! 

The cultural and historical context of this advice also includes the fact that Timothy was a leader in the early church, responsible for teaching and guiding others. By emphasizing the importance of rightly dividing the word of truth, Paul emphasizes the need for Timothy to be a faithful steward of God's Word, ensuring its proper interpretation and application so that he doesn't get ashamed after being found to be doctrinally incompetent. 

It is a shame to ministers of the gospel today that the pulpit has become a common crime of scriptural misuse and abuse. Sometimes I wonder what Paul would have to say if he were to attend most of our church meetings and listen to our sermons. 

CASE STUDY: RIGHTLY DIVIDING MEAT IN THE AFRICAN MARRIAGE CEREMONY 

In the African Shona tribe of Zimbabwe, the act of a groom correctly slaughtering a beast such as a cow or goat, rightly dividing and distributing the meat for food during a marriage ceremony demonstrates his understanding and respect for the cultural customs and traditions of the bride's family. 

This act is seen as a way to prove himself, showing that he is knowledgeable, capable, and worthy of marrying their daughter. Similarly cutting and eating meat, in the context of "rightly dividing the word of truth," it reflects a mature man of God who is approved and not ashamed. 

Hebrews 5:12-14 (KJV) says, "For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil."

By rightly dividing the word of truth, a believer demonstrates their understanding and respect for God's Word and its intended meaning. To rightly divide the word of truth means accurately interpreting and applying the Scriptures in a way that aligns with their intended purpose and context. 

It involves studying the Bible diligently and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit for discernment and understanding. This act of rightly dividing ensures that one is handling God's Word responsibly and faithfully, avoiding misinterpretations and false teachings. 

A man of God who rightly divides the word of truth shows that they have taken the time to understand the cultural and historical context in which the Scriptures were written. They seek to discern the author's original intent and the broader message of the Bible. 

By doing so, they demonstrate a commitment to learning, teaching, and living out the faith in accordance with God's will. In this sense, a believer who rightly divides the word of truth is approved by God, as they faithfully handle His Word and align their beliefs and actions with its teachings. 

They are not ashamed because they are confident in their understanding and application of the Scriptures, enabling them to stand firm in their faith and effectively communicate God's truth to others. 

Just as the groom's ability to rightly divide the pieces of meat demonstrated his worthiness to marry, a believer who rightly divides the word of truth shows their readiness to faithfully serve God and live out the Christian faith in a manner that brings honor to God and bears witness to His truth.

WHAT RIGHTLY DIVIDING THE WORD TRUTH IS NOT: "THE WRONG DIVISION ABOUT RIGHTLY DIVIDING."

The concept of "rightly dividing the word of truth" in the Bible does not specifically refer to the dispensational teachings of the MAD (Mid-Acts Dispensationalism) movement or any specific dispensational framework. 

While some Christians may interpret this verse in connection with dispensationalism, it is important to note that dispensationalism is a theological framework developed in more recent times and is not openly mentioned in the Bible. 

The Mid-Acts Dispensationalism (MAD) movement, also known as Hyper-Dispensationalism, was pioneered by a man named Charles H. Welch in the early 20th century. Welch, a British theologian, played a significant role in developing and promoting this particular dispensational framework. 

Charles H. Welch was prompted to develop MAD as a response to what he perceived as inconsistencies within traditional dispensational teachings. He believed that the widely accepted dispensational framework, known as classic or traditional dispensationalism, did not go far enough in distinguishing between the different dispensations of the Bible.

Welch argued that the Apostle Paul's unique apostleship and the revelation given to him by the risen Christ required a more distinct understanding of the dispensations, particularly in relation to the Church and the body of Christ. He emphasized a clear separation between the teachings and requirements of the Old Testament and those revealed specifically to Paul in the New Testament. 

Welch's teachings gained some following and influenced a small movement within dispensational circles, often referred to as the Mid-Acts or Hyper-Dispensationalist movement. But, it is important to note that Mid-Acts Dispensationalism represents a minority and extremist view within the broader field of dispensational doctrine. 

Many mainstream dispensationalists hold different views regarding the division of the biblical dispensations and the role of the Apostle Paul. The main challenge with MAD is that it rejects the New Testament teachings of Jesus and the other apostles other than Paul, and rejects some sections of Paul's letters because they are supposedly written only to Israel. This is absolutely MAD indeed! 

In its original context, Paul's exhortation to Timothy to "rightly divide the word of truth" is about accurately interpreting and understanding the Scriptures for the purpose of teaching and living out the faith. It is primarily concerned with handling God's Word responsibly and faithfully, rather than adhering to a particular dispensational framework. 

It is important to approach the Scriptures with humility, seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and studying the Bible in full to discern its intended meaning. While various doctrinal frameworks, including dispensationalism, may offer helpful perspectives, it is essential to prioritize the core teachings of the gospel and the principles found in the entire biblical narrative when interpreting and applying God's Word.

SEVEN PRINCIPLES OF RIGHTLY DIVIDING THE WORD OF TRUTH 

In light of other relevant verses, rightly dividing the word of truth involves several principles... 

1. Firstly, it requires studying the Scriptures diligently and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit for discernment and understanding. The Holy Spirit helps believers understand and apply God's Word.

John 16:13 (NIV) says, "But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth..."

2 Timothy 2:7 (KJV) says, "Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things."

Prayerfully depend on God's wisdom. Seek wisdom and understanding from God through prayer as you interpret His Word.

James 1:5 (NIV) says,"If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."

2. Study diligently. Devote time and effort to studying and understanding the Scriptures. It iinvolves reading and interpreting the Bible in its fullness, taking into account its historical, cultural, and literary context. 

2 Timothy 2:15 (ESV) says, "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth."

2 Peter 1:20-21 (KJV) says, "Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost."

There is no substitute for studying God's Word. Prayer and fasting are not an excuse for not studying. Many don't like to study because it is hard and strenuous work. The one who is not willing to study is not qualified to teach. The Holy Spirit is our Helper and not our Replacer. He came to remind us of the truth that we have read, not to read for us. Such thinking is spiritual laziness of the highest order!

John 14:26 (BBE) says, "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will be your teacher in all things and will put you in mind of everything I have said to you."

3. Consider the whole counsel of God. The complete picture comes out when all pieces of the puzzle come together. The full picture of the truth comes out when all scriptures about the subject come together. The truth is in whole, not in isolated pieces. Isolating verses without checking the near context before and after will automatically lead to error. Interpret passages in light of the broader biblical context to avoid misinterpretation.

Acts 20:27 (NIV) says, "For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God."

Also, Paul's exhortation to rightly divide the word of truth implies the need to distinguish between essential doctrines and non-essential matters. It means prioritizing the core teachings of the gospel while recognizing that there may be secondary issues where believers can have differing interpretations. 

Sadly a lot of Christians major on the minor matters and break ranks with other Christians in fellowship over little things, and they minor on major issues and fall into deception in fellowship with false teachers. Weightier matters of doctrine such as faith should not be sacrificed at the altar of lighter matters such as tithing. 

Matthew 23:23 (KJV) says, "Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone."

4. Interpret in the context, don't create your own new context. Understand the historical, cultural, and literary context of a passage to grasp its intended meaning. Extract the meaning of the text from the text, don't import foreign meaning into the text. The bible is a depository mine of all truth, it is not a marketplace of different opinions. 

1 Corinthians 2:13 (NIV) says, "This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, explaining spiritual realities with Spirit-taught words."

5. Compare Scripture with Scripture. The Bible actually explains itself and does not need your effort to make it meaningful. Use the Bible to interpret itself, allowing clearer passages to shed light on more difficult ones.

Isaiah 28:10 (ESV) says, "For it is precept upon precept, precept upon precept, line upon line, line upon line, here a little, there a little."

Have at least two or three Bible verses for reference as witnesses to make a conclusion on any Bible subject. Don't base your doctrine on spiritual experiences, because Satan may deceive you. 

2 Corinthians 11:14 (NET) says, "And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light."

If you isolate a verse you will most likely misinterpret it. 

2 Corinthians 13:1 (BBE) says, "This is the third time that I am coming to you. From the mouth of two or three witnesses will every word be made certain."

6. Understand the genre and style of the text whether it is a historical narrative, poetry or prophecy; in order to get the accurate meaning. Just as you can not properly dance to a song if you don't follow it's rhythm, you can not rightly divide a scripture if you have not mastered its genre and style. 

Like dancing, the art of interpreting scripture according to the genre, rhythm and style of the text is a skill that is developed over time through practice. It is not a spiritual gift that you can receive by impartation through the laying on of hands. 

Hebrews 5:13-14 (KJV) says, "For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil."

7. Prioritize the first revelation of a concept in the Bible ahead of the later Scriptures. The first Scriptures about anything contain its most original and pure realities. 

The first instance of an idea in the Bible is the foundation to its meaning. If the foundation is misplaced the whole structure becomes faulty and will eventually collapse. In scouting when get lost in the New forest, you have to find your way by going back to the starting point. 

This means that we have to go back to the book of Genesis to accurately interpret biblical concepts in their most original and correct forms. Don't get it twisted, God declares the end (Revelation) from the beginning (Genesis). He does not declare the beginning from the end. 

Isaiah 46:9-10 (KJV) says, "Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me. Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure."

CONCLUSION 

Overally, the call to rightly divide the word of truth encourages believers to approach the Scriptures with humility, seeking accurate understanding, and faithfully applying God's Word in their lives and teachings. Remember, these principles are not exhaustive, but they provide a foundation for approaching the Bible with reverence and seeking to understand its truth.