- Interpret every text in harmony with related texts.
- Understand verses in the context in which they appear.
- Use simple passages to assist in interpreting difficult ones.
- Refer to statements of other inspired writers on the same subject.
- Interpret figurative language according to figurative language rules.
- Understand words and phrases literally unless the text forbids.
- Interpret ordinances in a literal sense, as a general rule for commandments.
- Recognize that the Bible assigns special religious meanings to some words.
- Let the Bible itself define special meanings assigned to words.
- Accept the Bible’s definitions of words where given.
- Words suggesting definite action have a single meaning.
- Test a word’s definition by using it in place of the word in the text.
- Differentiate between figurative and literal expressions.
- Follow God’s defined method for obeying a command.
- Avoid building important teachings or practices on obscure passages.
- Distinguish between God’s will and human opinions.
- Consider explanations for why a commandment was revealed.
- No teaching or practice is Scripturally valid without authorization in the Word of God.
- Figurative language is clarified by non-figurative language.
- Do not inject meanings into a passage that are not inherent in it.
- Distinguish between figurative and literal language when both are present in the same text.
- Understand both what a text teaches and what it does not teach.
- Be diligent in rightly dividing the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15).
- Recognize that no prophecy of Scripture is of private interpretation (2 Peter 1:20-21).
Rules for Understanding the Bible
Faith & Reason Nexus 
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