FOLLOWING THE ORIGINAL AUTHOR'S INTENT AT THE PARAGRAPH LEVEL
This is a study guide commentary which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
Read the chapter in one sitting. Identify the subjects. Compare your subject divisions with the five translations above. Paragraphing is not inspired, but it is the key to following the original author's intent, which is the heart of interpretation. Every paragraph has one and only one subject.
1. First paragraph
2. Second paragraph
3. Third paragraph
4. Etc.
CONTEXTUAL INSIGHTS
A. Take note of the literary context. In this case the context is Matthew 24-25, which dealt with the suddenness of Christ's unexpected coming and the warning to "be ready" by being faithful in doing God's will-even amidst persecution.
B. For a full discussion on interpreting parables see introduction to Matthew 13.
C. Write in your own words the central truth of each parable (cf. Mat_24:45-51; Mat_25:1-30). Parables are meant to illustrate truth from common occurrences of daily life (cf. Mat_13:10-17). Always look for the unexpected twist or surprise!
D. Mat_25:37-44 do not appear in Mark. They do have a partial Synoptic parallel in Luk_17:26-37.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
This is a study guide commentary which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
These discussion questions are provided to help you think through the major issues of this section of the book. They are meant to be thought provoking, not definitive.
1. What is the central truth of all these parables?
2. How do these parables relate to other larger context of Matthews 24 and 25?
3. Explain the statement that gospel writers had the right under inspiration to select, adapt, and arrange the teachings of Jesus.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
This is a study guide commentary which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
These discussion questions are provided to help you think through the major issues of this section of the book. They are meant to be thought provoking, not definitive.
1. How can hell be both darkness and fire?
2. Does this passage teach that some will be saved by their good works to mankind?
3. In your own words what is the central truth of this passage?