The Bible: Illumination by Ps Michael Podhaczky

Finally, we come to Illumination, which is the work of God the Holy Spirit in enlightening the Bible. This is so that the reader is able to understand the Bible. This comes through in passages like (Ps 119:18, 105; Dan 5:14; Lk 24:32; Jn 14:26; 16:13-16; 1 Cor 2:10-13; 4:5; Eph 1:17-18; Col 1:9-12; Heb 4:12). This work of the Holy Spirit is based on revelation, inspiration, inerrancy, infallibility and the authority of the Bible. It is important to realise that the Holy Spirit does not give any new revelation, but inwardly illuminates the given Word of God to the reader.[1]

Without the supernatural work of the Holy Spirit to aid the reader and studier, they might not correctly understand, apply, grasp and recall the Word of God.[2] All Christ-followers need illumination to understand, embrace, interpret and obey the Bible correctly. In the end,

“Only the Holy Spirit, who caused the Bible to be written, can make the truth of it clear to us. He does this by regeneration and illumination.”[3]

It is important to have an understanding of the supernatural work of illumination through the person of the Holy Spirit. So, concerning His work, the following explanation gives some insight on this matter.[4] Remember that Illumination is the work of the Holy Spirit and not some mystical power of the words of Scripture. The Holy Spirit will use our study and meditation, not only to help us understand Scripture but also to apply it to our lives. The Bible reader’s accuracy, honesty and spiritual life can all affect the Spirit’s ministry of illumination. So, we need to be open to His leading.

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[1] Horton, Michael. Pilgrim Theology: Core Doctrines for Christian Disciples. (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2011), 64.

[2] Hernando, James D. Dictionary of Hermeneutics: A Concise Guide to Terms, Names, Methods, and Expressions. (Springfield, MO: GPH, 2005), 25.

[3] God Speaks: A Workbook of The Bible. (Highbury, London: Grace Publication Trust, 1980), 1/7.

[4] Litke, “8. Interpretation, Illumination and Application.” https://bible.org/seriespage/interpretation-illumination-and-application (21^st May 2018)