Jeremiah 29:11 is often used to highlight God’s promises for our future. But what does its full context reveal?

On October 14, 2024, during Module 3 of the Bible Interpretation Seminar, Rev. Noli Mendoza, chaplain and faculty member at the Asian Theological Seminary, discussed the significance of context in interpreting Scripture, using Jeremiah 29:11 as an example.

Christine Joy Labrador, a youth leader from His Life City Church Metro and a first-time participant in the seminar, shared how she has used the Bible verse in the past without fully grasping its context.

“[Sa] self-experience ko before, I just quote the Bible kasi it sounds good for me, parang ganun.”

After the seminar, she gained a new appreciation for the Bible and how to read it with proper understanding.

“So ngayon, yung what I heard kanina from Ptr. Noli, context is important talaga. Yung cultural background, malaman talaga. You read all the chapters, kasi it is a book. Book siya e, so it is not just a verse. Ibig sabihin, may kwento talaga behind every book and chapter.” 

Christine further expressed that the seminar allowed her to correct misconceptions and broaden her knowledge of the Scriptures.

“Ang daming mga nabasag na misconceptions and also mas napalawak pa na kaalaman. I look forward pa na mas mapalawak pa yung understanding ko when it comes to the Bible. It’s a book na super amazing na masasabi ko talaga.” 

She also emphasized that understanding Scripture is essential for a leader, especially when teaching disciples who rely on accurate guidance.

“Magagamit po talaga siya in a way na hindi natin magamit into maling context yung Scriptures na itinuturo, especially sa mga disciples. Kasi since isa po ako sa mga nagdi-disciple na rin, karamihan po sa kanila madalas nagre-rely [on] their leaders kung ano po yung mga dapat nilang malaman. So it’s important po na sa leader talaga magsimula na mismong ako, alam ko paano ako magshe-share [ng Word of God].”

In addition to Jeremiah 29:11, the seminar also reviewed James 2:14-26 as another example of how understanding context is crucial in correctly interpreting verses and scriptures.

The event gathered 170 participants from different churches and the next module is scheduled for November 18, 2024.