Author, Text, Reader

Read the text

Psalm 119:17–32

Read the primary passage aloud twice. On the first reading, listen for the burden of the text. On the second, mark repeated words, contrasts, commands, promises, causes, and conclusions.

• 2 Peter 1:19–21
• 1 Corinthians 2:10–16
• Ephesians 1:15–18

Language desk

Words that clarify—not words that perform.

Confirm each gloss by its use in this context. A lexicon offers possibilities; the sentence, paragraph, author, and canon determine what a word is doing here.

Form the doctrine

The theological claim

Illumination opens our minds to Scripture; it does not create new meanings.

Defense drill

Say it under pressure.

Answer: ‘That is just your interpretation.’

• State the opposing claim in a form its adherent could recognize.
• Open the controlling passage and establish the immediate context.
• Make one clear argument before adding supporting texts.
• Ask a diagnostic question, listen to the answer, and return to Christ and the gospel.

Wednesday assignment

Carry the truth into the week.

Paraphrase the main claim of Psalm 119:18 without using theological vocabulary.