In interpreting scripture, what is an effective first step?

Determining the text's central message is an essential starting point in biblical interpretation because it provides the foundational understanding necessary for grasping the meaning and significance of the passage. By identifying what the text is primarily communicating, a reader can more effectively engage with the material and appreciate its implications for both the original audience and contemporary readers. This central message often encapsulates the core themes of the scripture, which can guide readers in their application and study.

While considerations such as identifying the author, determining the original audience, and examining the cultural context are all important elements in the interpretive process, they often serve to enrich the understanding of that central message. Only after establishing what the text intends to convey can one fully explore who wrote it, for whom it was intended, and the cultural factors that may have influenced its writing. Thus, focusing initially on the core message helps ensure the interpretation remains faithful to the intent and content of the scripture.