Introduction
As we study the Bible, we will sometimes encounter passages that are difficult to understand. We may find unfamiliar expressions, historical events, symbolic language, or teachings that require careful examination.
When this happens, we should not immediately conclude that the passage is impossible to understand. Neither should we force an explanation simply because we want a quick answer.
A responsible Bible student approaches difficult passages with patience, examines the context, compares relevant Scriptures, and recognizes when further study is necessary.
In this lesson, we will learn practical ways to approach difficult passages without becoming discouraged or drawing conclusions that the text does not support.
Lesson 1: Be Patient When You Do Not Understand a Passage
Scripture Reading: Proverbs 2:3–5 (KJV)
Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding;
If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures;
Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.
These verses describe the importance of seeking wisdom and understanding diligently.
Not every Bible passage will become clear after one reading. Some passages require us to examine the surrounding verses, investigate unfamiliar words, or understand the historical situation.
When you encounter difficulty, give yourself time to investigate. Read the passage again, write down what you understand, and identify what remains unclear.
You do not need to answer every question in one sitting.
Practical example:
You are reading Hebrews 6 and encounter statements that raise questions about the passage’s warning and its intended audience.
Instead of immediately accepting the first explanation you hear, record your questions and examine the surrounding chapters. Consider the writer’s argument throughout the book of Hebrews.
If the passage remains difficult, continue investigating it over several study sessions.
Remember: Difficulty is a reason to study more carefully, not a reason to abandon the passage.
Lesson 2: Read the Passage in Its Immediate Context
Scripture Reading: Nehemiah 8:8 (KJV)
So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading.
This verse describes the reading and explanation of God’s law to the people.
Understanding a passage requires more than identifying the meaning of individual words. We must also consider how the words work together and what the writer is communicating.
Read the verses before and after the difficult statement. If necessary, read the entire chapter to understand the discussion.
Ask yourself:
- Who is speaking?
- Who is being addressed?
- What subject is being discussed?
- What question or problem is being addressed?
- How does the difficult verse relate to the surrounding verses?
These questions can help you avoid interpreting a statement in a way that conflicts with its context.
Practical example:
You are studying Philippians 4:13:
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Before deciding what this verse means, read Philippians 4:10–13.
You will discover that Paul is discussing contentment in different circumstances, including having plenty and experiencing need.
The context helps you understand his statement in relation to the strength Christ gives him to face those circumstances.
Remember: Never allow a single verse to become disconnected from the message surrounding it.
Lesson 3: Identify Unfamiliar Words and Expressions
Scripture Reading: Proverbs 18:15 (KJV)
The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.
A wise person is willing to gain knowledge rather than remaining satisfied with what they already know.
Sometimes a passage becomes difficult because we do not understand a word or expression. This can happen when reading the KJV because some English words have changed in meaning since the translation was produced.
When you encounter an unfamiliar expression, write it down and investigate its meaning.
A Bible dictionary or a comparison with another translation may help. However, remember that the context determines how a word is being used in a particular passage.
Practical example:
In Romans 1:13, Paul uses the expression “let” in the KJV:
Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles.
In this historical English usage, let means to hinder or prevent, rather than to permit.
Recognizing the older meaning helps you understand that Paul had been prevented from visiting Rome.
Remember: When a word appears confusing, investigate its meaning before building an interpretation around it.
Lesson 4: Consider the Historical and Cultural Background
Scripture Reading: Luke 1:1–4 (KJV)
Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us,
Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers of the word;
It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus,
That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.
Luke explains that he carefully investigated and arranged his account so that Theophilus could know the certainty of what he had been taught.
The Bible was written in real historical settings. Understanding those settings can help us interpret passages accurately.
Questions about customs, geography, political authorities, religious practices, and relationships between different groups may require background information.
However, historical background should clarify the biblical account rather than replace it. We should distinguish what Scripture explicitly states from what historians or commentators suggest.
Practical example:
You are studying the parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25–37.
Knowing something about the relationship between Jews and Samaritans helps you appreciate why Jesus’ choice of a Samaritan as the central example was significant.
You then return to the parable to examine how Jesus answers the question about loving one’s neighbour.
Remember: Historical background can clarify a passage, but the passage’s message must still be established through careful reading.
Lesson 5: Identify the Type of Biblical Writing
Scripture Reading: Psalm 78:2 (KJV)
I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old:
The Bible contains different forms of writing, including historical narratives, poetry, wisdom sayings, letters, parables, and prophecy.
Recognizing the type of writing can help us understand how a passage communicates its message.
For example, a proverb often expresses a general principle of wisdom rather than an unconditional guarantee that every situation will have the same outcome. Poetry may use imagery, while a parable communicates through a story.
A difficult passage may become clearer when you consider its literary form.
Practical example:
You are studying Psalm 91 and encounter poetic pictures of God’s protection.
Rather than assuming that every image must describe a literal physical event, examine the psalm’s poetic language and central message.
Consider what the imagery communicates about trust in God, while also recognizing that the passage should not be turned into a guarantee that believers will never experience harm.
Remember: Ask what kind of writing you are reading before deciding how its words should be understood.
Lesson 6: Compare Related Passages Without Ignoring Their Context
Scripture Reading: Acts 17:11 (KJV)
These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.
The Bereans examined the Scriptures to determine whether what they heard was consistent with the biblical text.
Comparing related passages can help us investigate difficult questions. One passage may provide background or additional information that helps clarify another.
However, comparison must be done carefully. Two passages may discuss the same general subject while addressing different circumstances or making different points.
Do not select a verse simply because it appears to support your preferred interpretation. Read each passage in its own context.
Practical example:
You want to understand the relationship between grace and good works.
You examine Ephesians 2:8–10 and Titus 3:5–8.
Both passages discuss salvation by God’s grace and also address good works. Reading them carefully helps you distinguish between the basis of salvation and the good works associated with the believer’s life.
Remember: Compare Scripture with Scripture, but allow each passage to communicate its own message.
Lesson 7: Distinguish Between What You Know and What You Still Need to Learn
Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 29:29 (KJV)
The secret things belong unto the LORD our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law.
In its original context, Moses was addressing Israel concerning God’s covenant and the things He had revealed.
The verse distinguishes between what God has made known and what remains hidden.
When studying a difficult passage, you may discover that some points are clear while others remain uncertain.
Record these differences in your notes. Do not treat a personal assumption as a fact simply because you cannot find a complete answer.
It is acceptable to say, “I understand this part of the passage, but I need to investigate this other point further.”
Practical example:
You are studying an account in the Gospels and wonder why a person involved in the event did not respond in a particular way.
If the text does not explain that person’s thoughts or motives, you should not claim to know them with certainty.
You can examine what the passage actually records while acknowledging that the person’s unrecorded thoughts remain unknown.
Remember: Honest study requires us to recognize the limits of what the text establishes.
Lesson 8: Consult Reliable Study Resources When Necessary
Scripture Reading: Proverbs 11:14 (KJV)
Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.
This proverb emphasizes the value of counsel.
Sometimes, reading the passage carefully is not enough to resolve every question immediately. You may need a Bible dictionary, a concordance, a historical resource, or a reliable commentary.
These tools can help you investigate unfamiliar terms, understand the historical background, and examine possible interpretations.
However, you should not accept an explanation merely because a respected teacher or commentator presents it confidently.
Consider the evidence, compare the explanation with the biblical text, and examine whether it fits the context.
Practical example:
You encounter a difficult expression in Paul’s letters.
After reading the surrounding passage, you consult a Bible dictionary to investigate the word and a commentary to learn more about its historical use.
You then return to the biblical passage to determine whether the explanations fit the writer’s argument.
If different resources disagree, record the differences and continue investigating.
Remember: Study resources can help you, but they should not replace careful examination of Scripture.
Lesson 9: Avoid Forcing a Passage to Support Your Preferred Belief
Scripture Reading: Proverbs 18:13 (KJV)
He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.
This proverb warns against reaching a conclusion before hearing a matter fully.
When we study the Bible, we may approach a passage with beliefs or expectations we already hold. If we are not careful, we may focus only on details that support our existing opinions.
Responsible interpretation requires us to examine the text honestly, even when it challenges our assumptions.
If your first interpretation does not fit the surrounding verses, reconsider it rather than forcing the passage to support your conclusion.
Practical example:
You believe a particular verse teaches that every believer will experience financial prosperity.
When you examine the surrounding passage, you discover that the subject being discussed is different from what you first assumed.
Instead of ignoring the context, reconsider your interpretation and record what the passage actually establishes.
You may still have questions, but you are learning to let the text guide your understanding.
Remember: Our responsibility is to understand what Scripture teaches, not to make Scripture say whatever we already believe.
Lesson 10: Develop a Step-by-Step Method for Difficult Passages
Scripture Reading: 2 Timothy 2:15 (KJV)
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
Paul instructed Timothy to handle the word of truth correctly.
When a passage is difficult, having a clear method can prevent confusion and unnecessary frustration.
Use the following steps:
Step 1: Read the passage carefully. Read it more than once if necessary.
Step 2: Examine the context. Read the surrounding verses and identify the subject being discussed.
Step 3: Identify the difficulty. Write down the specific word, statement, or question you do not understand.
Step 4: Consider the type of writing. Determine whether you are reading a narrative, poem, parable, letter, prophecy, or another form.
Step 5: Investigate relevant details. Look up unfamiliar words and examine the historical background when necessary.
Step 6: Compare related Scriptures. Examine relevant passages while respecting their individual contexts.
Step 7: Consult reliable resources. Use reference materials to explore questions that remain unresolved.
Step 8: Record your conclusion. Write down what the passage establishes and identify any remaining uncertainties.
Practical example:
Suppose you are studying James 2:24 and have questions about its statement concerning justification by works.
Rather than interpreting the verse in isolation, read James 2:14–26. Examine the problem James is addressing, the examples he uses, and what he means by faith being demonstrated through works.
You can then compare the passage with Romans 3–4, considering each writer’s argument and context.
Record the points you understand and the questions that require further investigation.
This method allows you to study the passage systematically rather than rushing toward a conclusion.
Remember
When studying a difficult Bible passage:
- Be patient when you do not understand.
- Read the passage in its immediate context.
- Investigate unfamiliar words and expressions.
- Consider the historical and cultural background.
- Identify the type of biblical writing.
- Compare related Scriptures carefully.
- Distinguish what is established from what remains uncertain.
- Consult reliable study resources when necessary.
- Avoid forcing the passage to support your preferred belief.
- Follow a clear method and record what you learn.
Key takeaway: Difficult passages should be approached with patience, humility, and careful investigation. We should neither abandon them too quickly nor invent explanations to satisfy our curiosity. Our aim is to understand what the biblical text actually teaches.