Tips to Understand Your Bible - Tip 3: FIRST MENTION

Looking at the first place a subject is mentioned in Scripture is a key to understanding that subject. That first mention becomes like an anchor or reference point for further interpretation on the subject. 

Start at the Beginning:

To arrive at a correct and comprehensive understanding of a subject, we must start our studies at the beginning. The Bible itself - the inspired Word of God - starts “In the beginning”.  We should follow that example.

The Apostle Paul understood this principle. For example, in everything he wrote regarding the redemption of mankind, he kept referring to the actual event where it started: the cross of Calvary. Our new position “in Christ” is anchored to that event. 

Look at the Bigger Scope of Scripture: 

Studying a subject in light of the first mention will increase your perspective and understanding of a subject and of Scripture as a whole. 

It helps you avoid a dogmatic and narrow view of a subject because you will build your understanding of the Word with Scripture upon Scripture. “For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept, Line upon line, line upon line, Here a little, there a little” (Isaiah 28:10 NKJV).

The Principle of First Mention helps to keep us on track with our studies and can guard us from becoming unbalanced or believing something that contradicts various Scriptures. 

THREE IMPORTANT “FIRST MENTIONS” IN SCRIPTURE: 

• God (Genesis 1:1) - The Hebrew word Elohim (plural of Elowahh) reveals the triune Godhead.

• Man (Genesis 1:26) - Mas is made in God's image (original righteousness) and was given dominion in the earth.

• God’s creation (Genesis 1:31) - It reveals that His character and handiwork is very good.

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These 5 tips of Bible Interpretation help equip us to better understand God’s Word: 

1. Context - The primary rule of Bible interpretation is to take into consideration the context of a passage.

2. Comparison - In order to arrive at a balanced view and understanding of a particular scripture, it’s important to compare scripture with other scripture.

3. First Mention - Looking at the first place a subject is mentioned in Scripture is a key to understanding that subject. That first mention becomes like an anchor or reference point for further interpretation on the subject. 

4. Progressive Revelation - As time unfolds, God's purposes become more clear and understandable. 

5. Christ - The Bible is one continuous story, and it is imperative that we keep in mind that all Scripture revolves around Christ and the redemption of mankind.