Ask yourself Quote by Haddon W. Robinson
““So what? What difference does it make?” How should this concept be applied? Is the biblical writer applying his idea? Where does he develop it? Exhortations in the Scriptures grow out of the context. Some sermons resemble cut flowers: the admonition of the author is cut off from the truth that produced it. The imperatives are always connected to the indicative. The effect should be traced to its cause. Is the author presenting an idea that he doesn’t apply directly but will apply later in his letter? Where does he do that? How do you apply this truth to your listeners now? Does the biblical writer assume that the reader will see the application of an assertion? The writers of the Gospels often assume that the readers will see the implication of a parable or a miracle. In narrative literature especially, ask yourself, “Why did the author include this incident?””
About This Quote
Source Book: Biblical Exegesis, Haddon W. Robinson, 1970
The author often presents a principle before showing its practical use, expecting readers to infer the application from context and narrative.
In simple terms: Authors may state ideas before applying them, trusting readers to see the link.
Key Takeaway
Look for the implied application in the surrounding text.
Themes
interpretation
exegesis
contextualization
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
explanatory
educational
When to use this quote
- preaching
- teaching
- Bible study
- sermon preparation
Key Concepts
Hermeneutics
implied meaning
narrative logic
Questions to Reflect On
- How does the surrounding narrative reveal the intended application?
- What clues indicate the author's intended outcome?
A Different Perspective
Readers may miss the connection without careful analysis.
