How to Read the Bible and NOT Be a Heretic: Ten Rules of Interpretation

How to Interpret the Bible Correctly: 10 Rules for Faithful Biblical InterpretationWhat’s the difference between orthodoxy and heresy? According to historic Christianity, it often comes down to how the Bible is interpreted.In this teaching, Pastor Dr. Matthew Everhard lays out 10 essential rules for biblical interpretation (hermeneutics) that help Christians read Scripture faithfully, avoid common errors, and understand the Bible the way it was intended to be read. With clarity, humor, and a strong Reformed theological framework, this video explains how careless or novel interpretations can lead to serious doctrinal mistakes—and how the church has historically guarded against them.You’ll learn:- Why the Bible must be read like any other book—and unlike any other book- How context, words, grammar, and authorial intent shape meaning- Why Scripture is primarily about God, not us- How to interpret difficult passages using clearer ones- The importance of literary genre (poetry, narrative, epistle, apocalyptic, etc.)- Why private interpretation apart from the local church is dangerous- How reading Scripture historically protects against novelty, cults, and heresy- Why reading the Bible is an actual encounter with the living GodThis teaching draws on classic Christian principles affirmed in the Reformed tradition, including insights reflected in the Westminster Confession of Faith, and is ideal for:- Christians who want to grow in biblical literacy- Pastors, elders, and teachers- Seminary students- Anyone confused by conflicting interpretations of ScriptureBelievers who want to avoid proof-texting, theological error, and modern distortions📚 Books mentioned in this videoBold as a Lion: Christian Courage in an Age of CowardsWorshiptainment (now available in Spanish as Adora Show)Supporting the channel by reading these books is one of the best ways to help this ministry continue.👋 About the speakerDr. Matthew Everhard is the pastor of Gospel Fellowship PCA and an adjunct professor at Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary (RPTS).👉 Subscribe / Follow for more teaching on:Reformed theologyBiblical interpretationChristian courageWorship, church life, and doctrine🔔 New sermons, lectures, and theological resources posted regularly.NEW BOOK: Bold as a Lion: Christian Courage in an Age of Cowards. Now available in paperback and ebook! Get it here: https://amzn.to/49FjBA8