Introduction

The challenge to understand what the Bible means is not a modern phenomenon. Early in the New Testament the need for interpretation arose with Philip's question to the Ethiopian: "Do you understand what you are reading?" And he (the Ethiopian) said, "How can I, unless someone guides me?" (Acts 8:30, 31). The role of guide is performed best by those who faithfully follow the principles of interpretation (hermeneutics).

These lessons were written knowing that in many cases people who believe in God and/or have accepted Jesus as their personal savior are never taught how to study and understand the bible. Christians tend as a whole to teach what the bible says but not teach people how to study for themselves. This is similar to giving a person a fish but never teaching that person how to fish. With all of the different denominations and Christian teachings it is the purpose of these lessons to equip the Christian believer with the tools and the knowledge on how to let the bible speak for itself.