Direct Scripture
A statement belongs here only when the passage directly establishes it. Cite the location and avoid rewriting an inference as a quotation.
Study standard
TEST EVERY CLAIM.
Strong presentation is not proof. Keep the biblical text, the ministry’s interpretation, present-day application, and creative dramatization visibly separate.
1 · TEXT
Quote accurately and read the surrounding chapter.
2 · CONTEXT
Identify speaker, audience, genre, setting, and purpose.
3 · REASONING
Show how the conclusion follows and where alternatives exist.
4 · RESPONSE
Apply with humility, evidence, and responsibility.
Interpretation
Interpretation connects details and passages. It can be reasoned and persuasive while still remaining open to correction.
Application
Application asks how the teaching changes conduct now. It should not erase the passage’s original audience or setting.
Dramatization
Artwork, invented dialogue, composite characters, imagined abilities, and cinematic staging can illustrate a theme but do not add facts to Scripture.
A five-question test
- What does the complete passage actually say?
- Which words belong to Scripture, and which belong to the teacher?
- What assumptions connect the evidence to the conclusion?
- What other faithful readings should be considered?
- What conduct is clearly required even if a timeline or symbol remains uncertain?