CONTEXT
One of the most important principles in Biblical interpretation or in any interpretation for that matter is context.
Context is the background of spoken or written communication. It shows us the meaning of the words that are being used. Let me give you an example:
What is meant by the word, "range?"
In English, "range" has several possible meanings. It can be a kitchen appliance. It can be a continuum of values from low to high. It can be an expanse of open prairie.
In order for there to be effective communication, both the speaker and the hearer or the writer and the reader must understand the same meaning for "range." Imagine the confusion that would result if someone were to tell you he has a range in his kitchen while you think of range as open prairie. He must have a very large kitchen.
In the same way, "grace" can mean a gift given by God or it can mean a characteristic of God. "Gospel" can mean one of the first four books of the New Testament or the message about Jesus Christ. "Justify" can mean to make someone righteous or to declare him to be righteous. "Death" can be spiritual or physical. And so on and so forth.
It is critical in anything you read or hear or write or speak to consider the context.
