The scriptures stand as some of the most influential and revered texts in human history. Across millennia, they have shaped cultures, inspired countless individuals, and served as spiritual guides for billions. However, understanding the scriptures requires recognizing an essential distinction: they were not written directly to us in the 21st century; rather, they were written for us. This distinction is crucial for proper interpretation and application of their teachings. To fully grasp the depth and meaning of the scriptures, we must approach them with an understanding of their original contexts and intended audiences, while appreciating the timeless truths they convey.
The Historical and Cultural Context of the Scriptures
The scriptures, including the Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price, were composed in specific historical, cultural, and linguistic contexts, addressing particular audiences. The Bible was composed over a span of approximately 1,500 years by dozens of authors from various walks of life. The Book of Mormon records the dealings of God with the ancient inhabitants of the Americas. The Doctrine and Covenants consists of revelations given to the Prophet Joseph Smith and other modern prophets, while the Pearl of Great Price contains additional revelations and inspired writings.
Understanding the original contexts of these texts is essential. For example, the agricultural metaphors frequently employed in Jesus’ parables, such as the “Parable of the Sower” (Mark 4:1-20), made perfect sense to a first-century agrarian society but require explanation for urbanized readers today. Similarly, the teachings in the Book of Mormon, such as King Benjamin’s address (Mosiah 2-5), were tailored to the cultural and spiritual needs of the Nephite people but offer principles applicable to all.
Each set of scriptures was written to specific groups—the Israelites, the early Christians, the Nephites and Lamanites, and the early Latter-day Saints. These audiences would have understood the nuances of the text in ways that are not immediately apparent to contemporary readers. For example, the epistles of Paul addressed real issues faced by early Christian communities, and the revelations in the Doctrine and Covenants responded to the immediate needs and questions of a fledgling Church. While the principles underlying these teachings are timeless, they were written to address specific, localized circumstances.
The Timelessness of Scriptural Truths
While the scriptures were not written to us, they were undeniably written for us. This means that their teachings, principles, and truths transcend time and cultural boundaries. The apostle Paul underscores this idea in 2 Timothy 3:16-17: “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” Similarly, in the Book of Mormon, we read that these things are written to “persuade [us] to believe in Christ” (2 Nephi 25:23).
Principles such as love, justice, mercy, and faithfulness are universally applicable. For example, the command to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18, echoed by Jesus in Matthew 22:39 and taught in Mosiah 2:17) transcends cultural and historical contexts, offering guidance for human relationships in any era. Similarly, the call to seek justice and care for the marginalized, as exemplified in passages like Micah 6:8, James 1:27, and Alma 34:28-29, remains profoundly relevant in addressing contemporary social issues.
The narrative arcs of these scriptures—from creation and fall to redemption and restoration—offer frameworks for understanding God’s relationship with humanity. These grand stories speak to the human condition, providing meaning and hope to people across time and place. While the particulars of the stories reflect the historical realities of their original audiences, their messages of God’s grace and redemption are timeless.
The Danger of Ignoring Context
Failing to recognize the distinction between the scriptures being written to versus for us can lead to significant interpretive errors. A common pitfall is “proof-texting,” where verses are taken out of context to support a preconceived idea. For instance, Jeremiah 29:11 (“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope”) is often cited as a personal promise of prosperity. However, in its original context, this verse was part of a letter to exiled Israelites in Babylon, assuring them of God’s plans for their eventual return to their homeland. Similarly, selective readings of the Book of Mormon or Doctrine and Covenants without understanding their contexts can lead to distorted interpretations.
Another danger is misapplying ancient or specific cultural norms as prescriptive for modern life. For example, the instructions regarding head coverings in 1 Corinthians 11:2-16 addressed cultural practices in Corinth and should not necessarily be viewed as universally binding. Instead, understanding the underlying principle of honoring God in worship allows us to apply the text meaningfully within our own cultural context. Likewise, certain revelations in the Doctrine and Covenants were directed at specific individuals or situations but contain principles applicable to broader circumstances.
Principles for Responsible Interpretation
To bridge the gap between the scriptures’ original contexts and our modern lives, readers should employ sound interpretive principles. These include:
- Historical-Cultural Context: Study the historical and cultural background of a passage to understand its original meaning. This may involve researching the customs, geography, and societal structures of the time.
- Literary Context: Read verses within their broader literary context, including surrounding chapters and the overall structure of the book. Understanding a passage’s genre (e.g., poetry, narrative, prophecy, epistle, or revelation) is also crucial.
- Theological Consistency: Interpret individual passages in light of the scriptures’ overarching narrative and consistent theological themes.
- Application Through Principles: Focus on extracting timeless principles rather than directly applying cultural specifics. For instance, while the cultural expression of modesty may differ across time and place, the principle of honoring God in how we present ourselves remains applicable.
- Engage with Community: Interpretation is enriched through dialogue with others, including insights from Church leaders, scholars, and fellow believers. This prevents overly individualistic readings and fosters a deeper understanding.
Christ as the Fulfillment of Scripture
Central to understanding the scriptures’ relevance for us today is recognizing Jesus Christ as their ultimate fulfillment. In Luke 24:27, Jesus explains to two disciples on the road to Emmaus how all scripture points to Him. This Christocentric perspective reveals that the purpose of all scripture is to draw people into a relationship with God through Christ.
The Old Testament’s laws, prophecies, and narratives find their ultimate meaning in Jesus. Similarly, the Book of Mormon testifies repeatedly of Christ and His atoning sacrifice, with prophets like Nephi, Alma, and Moroni emphasizing His role as Savior. The Doctrine and Covenants expands upon Christ’s mission and His direction for His Church in the latter days. By viewing scripture through the lens of Christ, readers can appreciate its coherence and relevance.
The scriptures were not written to us, but they were written for us. This distinction invites us to approach these sacred texts with humility and a desire to understand their original contexts while seeking their relevance for our lives today. By honoring the historical and cultural settings of the scriptures, we can uncover their intended meanings and apply their timeless principles with integrity. Ultimately, the purpose of the scriptures is to reveal God’s character and plan of redemption, offering guidance and hope to all who seek Him. Through careful interpretation and faithful application, we can embrace the scriptures as a living and transformative word for every generation.