Accepted Quote by J. I. Packer
“We approach Scripture with minds already formed by the mass of accepted opinions and viewpoints with which we have come into contact, in both the Church and the world…It is easy to be unaware that it has happened; it is hard even to begin to realize how profoundly tradition in this sense has moulded us.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Knowing God by J. I. Packer, 1973
Pre‑existing beliefs shape how we read Scripture, often unnoticed, making true understanding difficult.
In simple terms: Our minds are already shaped by tradition before we read the Bible.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and question your assumptions before interpreting.
Themes
faith
interpretation
tradition
selfawareness
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
theological
educational
When to use this quote
- personal study
- sermon preparation
- academic research
- spiritual direction
Key Concepts
hermeneutics
cognitive bias
formation
Questions to Reflect On
- How have your cultural backgrounds shaped your reading of sacred texts?
- What steps can you take to uncover hidden assumptions?
A Different Perspective
Even if we notice bias, fully escaping it may be impossible.
![“We have reached a situation where a theory has been accepted as fact by some, and possible contrary evidence is shunted aside. [This is] mythology rather than science.” quote by Robert Shapiro](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c31/robert-shapiro-26969_accepted_we-have-reached-a-situation-where-a-theo_19120.jpg)
