Here's a good reminder on biblical interpretation: "Words derive its meaning from how it is used in a sentence within a particular context." This is not my original idea. I learned it from my teachers at the seminary and I totally agree.
Same Word, Different Meanings
Here are examples using the word, "run": 1) "I can run faster than my dog." 2) "I will run for mayor of this town this coming election time." 3) "The girl's stockings has a run." 4) "OK, who's running the show?"
In these examples, we cannot always insist on a literal translation of the word, "run" to get the meaning being conveyed by this word in a sentence. Please notice that the meaning of the word "run" changes depending on how it is used in a sentence within a particular context. The same is exactly true in the Bible. It is not always true that we can get the meaning of words from its root word all the time. It depends on how it is used in a sentence.
We Don't Often Talk Literally
Some of us have not realized it but in everyday life, we actually do not talk "literally" all of the time -- normally. We actually also include figurative language in our everyday talk. And yet some of us insist that that is the way to interpret Scripture -- literally, all the time -- without considering its context.
We Often Use Figurative Language
OK, got to go. No, I'm not really going anywhere. I'm at home right now. What I mean is, I'm signing off. No, I'm not signing anything. What I mean is, see you later. Oops, I doubt if I can see you later if you're halfway around the globe. What I mean is... hmm... "figurative language." We use it all the time.
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