READ: 2 Peter 1:12-21
Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. – 2 Peter 1:20, 21
It is important to understand the background of the writer of the bible passage.
7. Understand the background (person, place and time).
It is even more revelatory to know the time and place of the writing. For instance, when Paul said to be subject to authorities, he was writing to the Romans. The Romans were being ruled by a very oppressive dictator, the emperor Nero.
Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. … Romans 13:1-3
This instruction is interesting when you understand the circumstances under which believers were operating. God was showing that it was wisdom to be subject to authorities. It is interesting to note that Christianity flourishes more under tyrannical rulers than under democracy. Perhaps this was part of God’s wisdom to make people believe in Him.
However, we can misuse this concept of background and get into error. For instance, I was once speaking to a lady. She said to me, “I don’t see why I should not commit fornication.” I was a bit taken aback. She continued, “I don’t see what’s wrong with that.” “But the Bible says that it is not right,” I said. She answered, “But the Bible was written a long time ago. In those days such things were not accepted but society has changed.” This young lady was throwing out the Scripture because she wanted to do her own thing. But God’s Word is timeless.