How does our Western/individualistic perspective limit our understanding of the Bible that was written from an Eastern/collectivist perspective? Discover some cultural norms left unsaid in Scripture.   

Receive 

As we read Scripture through the lens of our Western culture, this week’s guest, Randy Richards, reminds us that we may miss or misread some key values embedded in the Ancient Near Eastern culture the Bible was written in. Our Western individualist culture values “me” over “we,” but the Eastern collectivist culture that the Bible was set in values kinship, patronage, and brokerage that emphasize the family or group dynamic rather than an individual.  

Understanding the ancient Mediterranean culture that serves as the backdrop for the Bible can add rich context that can shed a whole new light on some passages of Scripture. 

How can discovering the cultural context of the Bible help you better understand and apply Scripture to your life? 

What could your next step toward learning more about the cultural context of the Old and New Testament look like? 

Reflect  

• What can you learn about the family dynamics between Joseph and his father and brothers by reading Genesis 37 through the lens of valuing kinship, which emphasizes strong family ties and parents mediating between siblings? 
• How does Ephesians 2:8 model the value of patronage, which emphasizes a patron giving a gift to help rescue a loyal friend? 
• How do 1 Timothy 2:5 and 1 John 2:1 model the value of brokerage, which emphasizes having a mediator speak on your behalf? 
• How do you feel reading John 1:12 and 1 Thessalonians 1:4 knowing you are part of God’s family?  
• Based on Matthew 6:3 and Luke 6:35, how are Jesus’ disciples supposed to differ from the patronage culture of that time? 
• How significant is it that Jesus calls His disciples, including you, His friends in John 15:15? 
• Based on Romans 1:20–21 and Psalm 50, how are we to respond to God’s gifts? 
• In Luke 7:1–10, why did the centurion send Jewish elders and then friends to Jesus instead of going to Jesus on his own?   

Respond 

(Use this prayer to start a conversation with God) 

“Dear God, thank You that understanding more of the Bible’s cultural context can help me get a deeper understanding of You! Help me grow in my knowledge of Scripture so I can grow in my love for You! Help me to apply Your words to my life.”      

Discover more about the topics in this episode with these recommended resources 

Mentioned in this episode: 

• Misreading Scripture with Individualist Eyes by our guest E. Randolph Richards  

Listen: 

• Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes  
• Misreading Paul | Week 1 
• Misreading Paul | Week 2 

Read: 

• Understanding the Original Situation 
• In the Beginning: Reading Genesis and Exodus  

Watch: 

• Biblical Context Explained 
• The Holy Land