Interpreting Biblical Genres

A proper understanding of the message of the author within each book requires understanding the genre. The genre tells us how to interpret and understand the author. In this brief resource learn what genre is presented throughout the books of scripture and how to approach each.

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Narrative / Historical

• Books: Genesis, Exodus, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, Samuel, Kings, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther; Gospels, Acts

• Features: Plot, character, setting

• Mistake to Avoid: Treating narrative as commands

• Proper Interpretation: Read as descriptive, not prescriptive. Look for overarching themes of God’s faithfulness and human response. Focus on what the story reveals about God’s character and plan.

Law / Covenant

• Books: Exodus, Leviticus, Deuteronomy

• Features: Moral, ceremonial, civil laws

• Mistake to Avoid: Applying ancient civil/ceremonial laws directly today

• Proper Interpretation: Distinguish between moral (timeless), ceremonial (fulfilled in Christ), and civil (specific to Israel). Understand covenant context and how the New Testament reaffirms or transforms these laws.

Wisdom / Poetry

• Books: Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon

• Features: Parallelism, metaphors

• Mistake to Avoid: Reading proverbs as promises or guarantees

• Proper Interpretation: Read as poetic and metaphorical. Recognize parallelism and figurative language. Treat proverbs as general principles for wise living, not absolute promises.

Prophecy

• Books: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, Minor Prophets

• Features: Near/far fulfillment, symbolic language

• Mistake to Avoid: Forcing every prophecy into modern political prediction

• Proper Interpretation: Consider both immediate and future fulfillment. Interpret symbols carefully, often with reference to other Scripture. Focus on the prophet’s call to covenant faithfulness and hope.

Epistles

• Books: Romans–Philemon, Hebrews

• Features: Argument structure, exhortation, doctrinal teaching

• Mistake to Avoid: Universalizing situational statements

• Proper Interpretation: Read as letters addressing specific contexts. Trace argument flow from doctrine to application. Distinguish timeless truths from situational instructions.

Apocalyptic

• Books: Daniel (parts), Revelation

• Features: Symbolism, visions, cosmic imagery

• Mistake to Avoid: Over-literalizing obvious symbols

• Proper Interpretation: Recognize heavy use of symbolism and visions. Interpret in light of Old Testament references and the broader biblical story. Focus on the central message: God’s sovereignty, Christ’s victory, and hope for believers.

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