What are the rules for interpreting the Bible?

Chuck Smith, Sermon on the Mount Study Guide, Matthew 5: In interpreting Scripture certain guidelines need to be followed: (1) The understandable and natural meaning is usually the correct interpretation. (2) If the interpretation of Scripture makes the meaning seem absurd, then the interpretation is wrong. (3) If the interpretation contradicts the general body of scriptural truth, then it is wrong. (4) If the Bible is approached with pre–conceived thoughts or ideas, the interpretation will suffer. Study notes condensed from his teaching by The Word For Today. From Chuck Smith's books, used by permission of The Word For Today.

Verified. Every scripture quotation on this page has been checked word-for-word against the King James text. Last reviewed 2026-10-18.