Scripture Quote by Martin Luther
““And what is it that preachers do, to this very day? Do they interpret and expound the Scriptures? Yet if the Scripture they expound is uncertain, who can assure us that heir exposition is certain? Another new exposition? And who will expound the exposition? At this rate we will go on forever. In short, if Scripture is obscure or ambiguous, what part is there in God's giving it to us?””
About This Quote
Source Treat: Sermon or theological treatise, likely 16th‑century Reformation writing
Questioning the reliability of scriptural interpretation when the text itself is ambiguous
In simple terms: Unclear texts lead to endless debate about meaning
Key Takeaway
Seek clarity and humility in interpreting sacred texts
Themes
interpretation
authority
uncertainty
theology
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- preaching
- Bible study
- doctrinal debates
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
religious study
philosophy
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- What methods can ensure more reliable understanding?
- How do we handle ambiguous passages responsibly?
A Different Perspective
Interpretation may still be limited by human bias and language constraints
![“We have no clear ideas of the agency of [demonic] spirits, nor is it necessary. The Scripture says little to satisfy our curiosity; but tells us plainly that he is always watching us, and desiring to sift us as wheat. I believe we give him no more than his due, when we charge him with having a…” quote by John Newton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c75/john-newton-6629_abundance_we-have-no-clear-ideas-of-the-agency-of_2907.jpg)
