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Exegetical theology is a branch of theological study that critically interprets and explains biblical texts. Exegetical is derived from the Greek word exégeomai, which means “to lead out” or “to draw out.” Exegetical theology leads and draws out the meaning of Scripture by analyzing a given text’s language, context, and historical background. It is a faithful exercise for “rightly handling the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15, ESV).
Purpose of Exegetical Theology
Exegetical theology aims to uncover the biblical authors’ original intent and apply God’s truth to our lives without distorting its meaning.
• Understanding the text requires examining a biblical passage’s grammar, syntax, and vocabulary to reveal its precise meaning.
• We must consider the passage’s literary, historical, and cultural context to avoid misinterpretation.
• Once the text’s original meaning is understood, we can apply its truths.
Biblical Basis for Exegetical Theology• We must consider the passage’s literary, historical, and cultural context to avoid misinterpretation.
• Once the text’s original meaning is understood, we can apply its truths.
The Bible supports faithful interpretation. In 2 Timothy 2:15, the apostle Paul writes, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth” (ESV). Diligent study is required for faithful interpretation and application.
Methods of Exegetical Theology
Exegetical theology employs several methods for faithful interpretation and application:
1. Grammatical Analysis: Understanding the biblical languages (Hebrew and Greek) is essential. For example, the Greek word agape (usually translated “love”) in 1 Corinthians 13 refers to the unconditional, selfless, and sacrificial love God shows us and that we must show others.
2. Historical-Cultural Analysis: Context is king. For example, in Jeremiah 29:11, the Lord declares, “I know the plans I have for you. . . . They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope” (ESV). God’s promise here was intended to encourage Jewish exiles in Babylon.
3. Literary Analysis: Scripture contains different literary genres: narrative, poetry, wisdom, prophecy, gospels, epistles, and apocalypse (Lawrenz, M., “The Many Genres of Scripture,” Bible Gateway Blog, 3/3/16). Identifying a passage’s genre avoids confusion. Different methods should be used when interpreting Psalms, for example, than are used for the Pauline Epistles.
4. Biblical and Theological Coherence: Exegetical theology ensures “Scripture interprets Scripture.” If our interpretation of a passage does not cohere with other passages, then something is wrong. We must adjust our understanding, not the text.
Examples of Exegesis2. Historical-Cultural Analysis: Context is king. For example, in Jeremiah 29:11, the Lord declares, “I know the plans I have for you. . . . They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope” (ESV). God’s promise here was intended to encourage Jewish exiles in Babylon.
3. Literary Analysis: Scripture contains different literary genres: narrative, poetry, wisdom, prophecy, gospels, epistles, and apocalypse (Lawrenz, M., “The Many Genres of Scripture,” Bible Gateway Blog, 3/3/16). Identifying a passage’s genre avoids confusion. Different methods should be used when interpreting Psalms, for example, than are used for the Pauline Epistles.
4. Biblical and Theological Coherence: Exegetical theology ensures “Scripture interprets Scripture.” If our interpretation of a passage does not cohere with other passages, then something is wrong. We must adjust our understanding, not the text.
• John 1:1 – “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (ESV).
◦ A grammatical and syntactical analysis of John 1:1 reveals Christ’s divinity. Christ is the eternal and preexistent Word of God (cf. Colossians 1:16).
• Genesis 1:26 – “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness” (ESV).
◦ The plural pronoun us might hint at a divine council, but it is more likely a revelation of the Trinity. In the Old Testament, the Trinity was “a treasure hidden in a field” (Swain, S., “Is the Trinity in Genesis 1?”, www.thegospelcoalition.org, 1/1/20, accessed 2/26/24).
• Romans 12:2 – “Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind” (ESV).
◦ Paul calls believers to countercultural living. The Greek verb metamorphouste (“be transformed”) suggests an ongoing process of sanctification and becoming more Christlike.
Challenges in Exegetical TheologyWhile exegetical theology has many benefits, it also has some challenges. Here are a few:
• Linguistic Barriers: Learning Hebrew and Greek requires rigorous study
• Cultural Distance: Contemporary believers may have trouble understanding the historical and cultural practices of biblical times
• Theological Bias: Interpreters may read their theological beliefs into the text rather than allow the text to shape their theology.
Interpreters can use lexicons and commentaries to overcome these challenges. However, the most essential resource is the Holy Spirit, who helps us read, understand, and apply Scripture (1 Corinthians 2:1–16).• Cultural Distance: Contemporary believers may have trouble understanding the historical and cultural practices of biblical times
• Theological Bias: Interpreters may read their theological beliefs into the text rather than allow the text to shape their theology.
Exegetical theology is indispensable for faithful interpretation and application of Scripture. Its methods give us the tools to understand God’s Word accurately and precisely. As David declared, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105, ESV).