CE 8 Unit 1 Four Senses of Scripture

Vocabulary flashcards covering the definition of scripture, the four senses of scripture, and specific biblical passage examples.

Scripture

• writings in the Bible

• the Word of God

• collection of books written by many authors inspired by God

Literal Sense

• what the human author was trying to say to the original audience

• considers HOW that part of the Bible was written

3 Spiritual Senses

1. allegorical

2. moral

3. anagogical

Allegorical Sense

How the Old Testament points ahead to Jesus Christ and the New Testament

Moral Sense

How a scripture passage teaches us how to act, treat others, and make good choices

Anagogical Sense

How a scripture passage points us towards heaven and eternal life

4 Senses Diagram

Completed 4 Senses Diagram

Two categories of senses

literal and spiritual

Literal Sense of Genesis 1 & 2:1-3

God created the universe, life, and humanity over time, called it “very good,” and rested when he was finished
Genesis 1 and 2 were written as myth - they are meant to share a general message, not to be taken as fact

Allegorical Sense of Genesis 1 & 2:1-3

God creating humanity in His image points ahead to Jesus Christ, who is true God and true man

Moral Sense of Genesis 1 & 2:1-3

Because God made humans in His image and called creation "very good," this passage teaches us to love ourselves, treat others with respect, and care for creation.

Anagogical Sense of Genesis 1 & 2:1-3

God's creation of humans to live in peace and harmony with the world points toward our ultimate destiny of eternal peace and rest in Heaven.

What must you consider when interpreting Scripture using the literal sense?

How the book of the Bible was written - whether it was myth, history, etc.