What is This Picture? (Part 3)

Yesterday, we looked at the importance of interpreting verses according to their surrounding context. Here are some examples: 

1) Luke 18:22: Sell all you own to have treasure in Heaven 

    (Context: vv. 18-27)

Misinterpretation: Some have believed that this verse teaches that people must rid themselves of all of their possessions to go to Heaven. This is a faulty interpretation.

Proper Interpretation: In the passage, a rich man loved his treasure more than God - - his money was his idol. If we desire to trust Jesus as our Lord, we must reject every idol, whether it be a stone figure or a wad of money.

2) Revelation 3:20: I stand at the door and knock (Context:  vv. 14-22)

Misinterpretation: Although often understood as an evangelistic verse, this is not the primary meaning of the verse.

Proper Interpretation: In Revelation 3:14-22, Jesus addressed the church at Laodicea, a group of believers. He told them that although He is the Founder and Head of the church, He was not welcome in their services. Jesus promised that He would commune with them once more if only they would open their door to Him.

3) James 5:1: The cursing of the rich (Context: vv. 1-6)

Misinterpretation: Some have taken this verse as a condemnation of all rich people, but this is not the case.

Proper Interpretation: The rich people in James 5 abused the poor, taking advantage of them to get even more riches. James warned that God would punish these greedy, selfish people.