Biblical explanation
The Bible itself teaches humility in interpretation. Paul says: “For we know in part, and we prophesy in part” (). Human knowledge is limited. We do not possess every detail behind every biblical event. Scripture also warns against answering before understanding: “He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly” (). And Paul instructs Timothy: “Rightly dividing the word of truth” (). This means that apparent problems should be investigated rather than dismissed or exaggerated. There are several questions worth asking when two passages appear different: Are they actually describing the same event? Are they speaking about the same person? Are they using the same definition of a word? Are they giving different details rather than contradictory details? Does the surrounding context explain the difference? Could translation affect the apparent difference? Is one account more detailed than the other? Scripture does not tell us that every apparent difficulty has already been solved. It does, however, provide a principle: seek truth carefully, compare Scripture with Scripture, and do not build conclusions on isolated statements.
In brief
The Bible itself teaches humility in interpretation.
Bible references
Go deeper into this topic Can We Trust the Bible? Start the studyThis answer is written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team, and is presented with supporting references so you can examine each passage in context. If you notice an error or unclear statement, please suggest a correction.