Jesus' and Paul's audiences

Our first goal must be to understand what the original or intended meaning of the passage is. In other words, what was the human author's intended meaning, and how would his original audience have understood what he wrote? -- Do you take either into consideration?

[Morpheus]

Seems you left out a quote, Tee.

Originally Posted by Morpheus

Seems you left out a quote, Tee.

Yea, I left out a ton as I went back to change but the edit button wasn't available. Nevermind, why ask some dumb questions......

Our first goal must be to understand what the original or intended meaning of the passage is. In other words, what was the human author's intended meaning, and how would his original audience have understood what he wrote?

I certainly agree. For instance, a modern Americaan is not likely to worship the Pagan gods of Plutos or Aphrodite but we often dedicate our lives and efforts to attaining wealth to the equivilent of worship. Likewise we may focus on sexual prowess and gratification to the point of it becoming our god. Both these "gods" are prevalent in modern America. I think we can all see that.

However, when we go deeper than the outward symptoms of a sick soul, I think the basic teaching of both Jesus and Paul is the importance of love of God, our fellow man, our enemies and ourselves. (Matthew 22:35-40) and 1 Corinthians chapter 13) among other scriptures on the basic importance of love.

I think it important to keep this in mind to give us a balanced perspective rather than getting hung up on derivitive behaviors.

In my own experience I find the truly loving heart is the product of spiritual rebirth received by grace, not works, lest I should boast.

[Miss Hepburn]

Originally Posted by TeeHee

Our first goal must be to understand what the original or intended meaning of the passage is. In other words, what was the human author's intended meaning, and how would his original audience have understood what he wrote? --

Do you take either into consideration?

Do I take either into consideration?
Come on...

[jojo50]

Originally Posted by TeeHee

Our first goal must be to understand what the original or intended meaning of the passage is. In other words, what was the human author's intended meaning, and how would his original audience have understood what he wrote? -- Do you take either into consideration?

When Jesus spoke many times in parables, he often explained it, but it was to his Apostles. Many, no matter how hard they try, or what biblical schooling they had. Will not understand Jehovah’s Gods words spoken though the men he picked, including Jesus ,( John 15:15 Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you). Simply because they choose NOT to know his Father on the same personal level as they feel they know Jesus, (John 17:3 And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent).


Those who wasn’t the Apostles , understood many of Jesus and Paul words, because they served the Grand creator. The men who were sent to Jesus, ALREADY had a personal relationship with the God of Israel. Meaning they made their prayers to Jesus Father. Many just may not have know his name ,( John 6:44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day). And (John 17:6-8). Also in order to understand ANY word of God, regardless of whom he chose to write them down. We have to make sure we’re living in a way pleasing to his Father. By following in Jesus footstep. peace