The context of a passage matters when observing the text. Interpret parts in light of the whole, and the whole in light of the parts. A passage should always be read in its context. Context flows in both directions:
- Build up (bottom-up): The meaning of a paragraph contributes to the chapter. Chapters build into divisions, which together form the book. Books combine to form the Bible’s overall message.
- Paragraph → Chapter → Division → Book → Bible
- Drill down (top-down): Understanding the theme of the book helps clarify the theme of each chapter, which in turn sheds light on each paragraph.
- Book theme → chapter theme → paragraph theme
By paying attention to how parts and wholes interact, you avoid misreading isolated passages and gain a fuller understanding of the text.