TRANSCULTURAL TRUTH

What does it mean for today?

What is the truth that crosses all cultures?

This step is usually not included in most inductive studies, but critical.  Not all passages due to their cultural relevance can be directly applied without seeking the transcultural truth.  One example is Paul writing to the Corinthians in 1 Corinthians 14:34.  If that verse were taken out of context and applied without the transcultural truth first, then women would need to keep silent in the church.  Applying the transcultural truth however, helps one understand to not interrupt a service by asking ones husband sitting on the other side of the room a question during the teaching.

Think of TRANSCULTURAL TRUTH as the intangible beauty of the painting that has transformational power in the eye of the beholder.

APPLICATION

How can I be transformed by the transcultural truth?

Application through the lenses of the transcultural truth can then be applied.  Not all portions of Scripture will need this lens as focused.  An example would be the twelfth chapter in Romans.  Application answers the HOW of the truth in Scripture:

HOW does the truth of the passage apply to me personally?

HOW can I now apply it?

It is in this step that transformation begins to take place.  It’s not just hearing, but applying the truth.  In this step, one is able to respond to the truth presented, but also accountable and equipped for good work!

One example is applying the transcultural truth found in 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (YLT).

In context , it was referring to the Old Testament Writings, the transcultural truth is that all Scripture is inspired.

every Writing [is] God-breathed, and profitable for teaching,

for conviction, for setting aright,

for instruction that [is] in righteousness,

that the man of God may be fitted — for every good work having been completed.

Think of APPLICATION as the beautiful painting framed, in an exquisite place with correct light, in the right location to be both admired and to take in the intangible beauty of the painting and then reflected back after internalizing and walking forth in transformation from the encounter.  This happens after having the opportunity to intently gaze and reflect after admiring the work and walking in the transformation after the encounter.

The first step, OBSERVATION may seem like an added step at first, but without it, interpretation has no frame from Scripture.

However, INTERPRETATION, TRANSCULTURAL TRUTH, and APPLICATION depend on it for accuracy.

Highly recommend:  How to Read the Bible For All it’s Worth by Gordon Fee and/or How to Study Your Bible by Kay Arthur.