Drawing Conclusions From Inferences:
Inferences are certain conclusions that can be legitimately reasoned out when words are explained properly. Those who read or hear them can form a correct and proper Biblical view of Christian doctrines, works, and actions that may be required of us by God.
From any conclusions that we may form on inferences, we are authorized to do so by the odd characteristics of the Hebrew and Greek languages. When these characteristics are correctly examined and understood, both what the words uttered in themselves imply, but also what may be reasoned from them by legitimate events: this is, cause and effect.
Also, we can draw these conclusions by the authority of Jesus Christ and his apostles, who sanctioned this practice by their examples.
To illustrate the above lets take a closer look at Matthew 22:23 to 32. Jesus when disputing with the Sadducees, cited the declaration of God recorded in,
Exodus 3:6. “I am the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob,” from this verse, He proved the resurrection of the dead inferentially, that is by lawful deductions.
Abraham had been dead for more than 300 years, before these words were spoken to Moses, Jehovah called Himself the God of Abraham. Jesus properly remarked that God,
Matthew 22:32, “is not the God of the dead.”
This word dead being equivalent in the sense of the Sadducees to whom He was speaking to, meaning eternal annihilation. So it follows, that if He be the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, these men had not altogether perished, but that their bodies would be raised again from the dead, while their souls and spirits are alive now with God, this not with-standing the historical fact that they had ceased for centuries to exist among the living.
In the same reply, Jesus further disputed, inferentially, another opinion of the Sadducees, via, they saying,
Acts 23:8, “there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit.”
Jesus showing that the soul and spirit of man is not only immortal, but lives with God even while the body is detained in the dust of the earth, which will afterwards be raised to life and be united to the soul and spirit by the miraculous power of God.
The foundation of inferential reading is the never ending harmony of the things written in the Bible. When we have totally considered and totally understood a single doctrine, we can easily understand the many others which depend and rest upon it; this because they are linked together in one continued chain.
But in order to conduct this kind of reading, it having many advantages, it is probable and necessary that the subjects are brought to there true meaning. With serious, subdued, self-controlled judgments, intense study, and prayer, we will be led into, and capable of penetrating into every deep truth of Scripture.
We can bring to light with a tireless attention and patience the meaning of hard to understand verses, and of deducing one truth from another by strong reasoning. The more we understand, having and possessing a sufficient knowledge of the form of sound words both our faith and love, which is in Christ Jesus, will grow.
2 Timothy 1:13, “Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.”
Without this knowledge, it will be impossible to make any positive or beneficial progress in this area of the Bible understanding, or to discover the exhaustless variety of important truths contained in the Scriptures. It will likewise be required to compare inferences when drawn, in order to be sure that they are correct, and are truly worthy of the words, or names by which they are called. For this purpose the following rules may be of help to us.
1. In some cases, inferences must NOT be deduced, nor should they be expressed in the very words of the text.
Matt.6:33, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you,”
The following conclusions can be drawn:
A. First the Kingdom of God is to be sought.
B. It is necessary that we seek the righteousness of God, and
C. To him that seeks, all other things shall be added.
Although these are in themselves important truths, they are expressed too plainly in the very words of Scripture, to be called inferences. They are rather truths seated in the text itself, rather than truths understood from the words.
2. Inferences must be inferred from the true and genuine sense of the words, not from a false or counterfeit sense, whether literal or mystical = (hidden or secret.)
Let me give you an example, by looking at two verses. I use this example because it was a horrible period of time for the Christian community at large, and for man-kind in general when this verse was interpreted incorrectly.
Peter had a vision; he saw heaven open, and a vessel descended down to him. It was like a great sheet, and held all types of four footed beasts of the earth, wild beasts, creeping things, and fowls of the air. It appears that every species of animal and bird were contained in this sheet. These were both clean and unclean. The unclean were forbidden by the Jew to eat, and were not to be used in their ceremonial law, yet these were all together.
Acts 10:10 thru 20, “And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill and eat.” Peter at first refused the Lord, saying, “I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean.”
Compare, “kill and eat,” with John 21:16, when Jesus said to Peter, “Feed my sheep = (sheep meaning Christians.)” Church leaders who in past centuries had claimed, and still claim to be the successors of Christ or Peter, have used these verses in the following manner.
From the command, “Rise, Peter; kill and eat, as opposed to the Lord’s directions to Peter, “Feed my sheep.” Men have, by a two-fold false inference, with one hand, fed the Church, and with the other put thousands of Christians to death. Those who chose to dispute church doctrine would be jailed or killed. It becomes very obvious that this tragedy was derived from putting a false and totally fabricated sense upon these passages.
The following inferences are always to be preferred which approach nearest to the scope of a passage.
In John 6:37, Jesus said, “Him = (Christian’s) that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.” From what is contained in this verse, the following inferences have been drawn.
A. That Jesus is the safest place for all persons whose consciences are burdened with the many issues of life.
B. That Christian’s should receive those who are weak in the faith this after the example of Christ, and to treat them with love, kindness and give to them any help that is needed.
Though both these inferences are good in themselves, the first is to be preferred. Why? Because it harmonizes best with the scope of the passage, see verses 38 to 40. Jesus said,
John 6:38-40, “For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. And this is the Father’s will which hath sent me, that of all = (Christian’s) which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.”
Inferences should embrace useful truths, truths on which the mind may meditate, and be led to a more intimate acquaintance with the doctrine’s of salvation, and with Christian morality.
Inferences that are referred are divided into two classes 1. Internal: 2. external.
The first are inherent (inseparable) in the text, and flow from it, considered in itself. The second is derived from a comparison of the text with other passages and circumstances.
Here are a few examples to illustrate these definitions. The sources from which conclusions are drawn are called internal, or inherent in the text, this when such consequences or conclusions are formed.
A. From the passion of the writer or speaker.
B. From the words and their importance.
C. From the emphasis and force of words.
D. From the structure and order of the words contained in the text.
The conclusions drawn from the writer or speakers words are left to the investigation of the interpreter, reader or hearer. Example follows.
Mark 3:5, “And when he = (Jesus) had looked round about on them = (the Pharisees) with anger, being grieved for the hardness of their hearts, he saith unto the man, = (this man had a withered hand) Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it out: and his hand was restored whole as the other.”
Jesus anger here was an excess of grief, brought about by the Pharisees obstinate stupidity and blindness. From this passage the following conclusions may be drawn:
A. It is the duty of a Christian to have concern, not only for his own sins, but also to be grieved for the sins of others.
B. All anger is not to be considered sinful.
C. A person who does not bear the image of Christ, but rather that of Satan, can either look with indifference upon the wickedness of others, without feelings, or rebuttal, or he may even rejoice in it.
D. Nothing is more evil than a man whose heart has hardened in feelings, and who has become stubborn, persisting in wrong doing, since it caused him, = (Jesus) who is the source of all true joy, to be filled with grief on beholding it.
E. Our indignation against evil must be tempered by compassion for those who are wicked.
Conclusions deduced from words themselves, and their meaning. Example,
Luke 21:15, Jesus said, “For I will give you a mouth and wisdom.” The inferences are,
A. Christ, the eternal wisdom, is the source and spring-head of all true wisdom.
B. God gives those who attempt to procure wisdom by their own strength, without the aid of prayer, may rightly be charged with presumption = (supposed truths without direct or positive proof.)
C. Concerning you. No person stands more in need of the gift of Divine wisdom than those who are entrusted with the duty of teaching others.
D. Concerning the mouth: The act of speaking is a gift bestowed on a person by God, as well as every other gift.
E. Wisdom. It is possible for a person to acquire knowledge by the mere force of a corrupted nature; therefore nature cannot possibly give true wisdom.
F. A person strong expression of emotion, designed to excite others, when not united with wisdom, is of little use in promoting the kingdom of Christ.
Inferences drawn from the emphasis and force of words: Following are a few examples.
1 Peter 5:5, “Be clothed with humility: for God resists the proud,”
A. Humility. Christian humility does not reside in filthy or torn cloths, but in a modest mind, that entertains humble views of itself.
B. Christian’s are to be dressed properly, and modestly. True beauty in a person, are the ornament which decorates one’s mind, much more so than the most stylish cloths or Jewelry designed by man.
C. What does Peter mean when he said, “to be clothed?” This expressive word, “clothed,” implies that the humility of a Christian, that humility being one of the most ornamental graces of our profession of faith, should constantly appear in all our conversations, and to appear to all in both the eye and ear of every one who hears and sees them as real. This grace should be so closely connected with that person. At no time can any temptation or shameful thing be found or connected with them.
Humility is a garment with which we cover both our own virtues and the defects of others. This garment of humility, is constantly being exposed to many of Satan’s snares, and must be carefully guarded and retained by us.
The idea of, “the proud,” are those who always appear to exalt themselves above others. No single sin is capable of being less concealed, or of escaping the observation of others, than the sin of pride. God resisteth, literally, sets Himself against the proud person, this is a military term.
The inference drawn is, that while all other sinners withdraw, as it were, from the presence of God, and seek shelter against their indignation, the proud alone openly challenge God.
Inferences drawn from the order and structure of the Scriptures:
Romans 14:17, “For the kingdom of God is not meat (food) and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.”
The following inferences may be taken, according to the order of the words, which depend upon the connection and order of the subjects.
A. No constant and lasting peace of a person’s conscience is to be expected, unless they had previously lay hold of the righteousness of Christ by faith.
B. Christian’s only possess a true and permanent joy, and those who are justified, therefore, cultivate peace with God through His Son, Jesus Christ.
C. Those person’s who continue in a state of hostility and enmity with God and man, boast in vain of the righteousness of Christ.
D. A clear and peaceful conscience is the only source of spiritual joy.
The sources of inferences are external, when the conclusions are drawn from a comparison of the text.
A. With the condition and circumstance of the speaker.
B. With the scope of the book or passage.
C. With the context.
D. With parallel passages and other circumstances.
Inferences drawn from the state of the writer or speaker: Solomon, the wisest and richest of kings, whose pursuits and desires for the worldly vanities was so great, that he left none of his desires untried. He was unlimited in his means for self-gratification, and his pursuit for pleasure and satisfaction.
When he explained in Ecclesiastes 1:2, “Vanity of vanities, all is vanity,” the following inferences may be drawn from his words, this is compared with his state of mind.
A. The most ordinary lay person, such as a handy man, a craftsman, a mechanic, etc., even these are NOT to be ridiculed when speaking of his or her own business or trade.
A person must be more than stupid if he does not give their full attention to a President, King, or orator, when they speak, also when anyone speaks.
B. When it pleased God to select a person (Solomon) to proclaim and testify of all things human, He made the choice of one who had a great deal of experience, in how terribly vain he had become in his accomplishments.
When great leaders, wise men, men of honor, educated men, rich men, they having the means for many pleasures, then proclaim the vanity of these things, their testimony ought to be received by every one and given a great deal of thought and consideration.
Heads of state, business men, those who lead, these are more apt to be exposed to the wiles of pleasure. Therefore it is worthy to note that God raised up a man (Solomon) from their ranks to warn them, to point out to them, the dangers that await them.
Inferences drawn as a consequence from principles or premises:
A. Inferences taken from the general scope of an entire book.
John 8:51, Jesus said the following, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, if a man keep my saying, he shall never see death.”
Compare this with the general scope of the entire book of John which is announced in John 20:31, “these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through = (in) His name.” From this we can conclude the following inferences.
A-1. Faith in Christ is to be proved and shown by obedience to His word.
A-2. Faith received without hypocrisy, not only gains the merits of Christ, but also His words and precepts.
A-3. Whatsoever is heard, acted on, believed and loved through faith, that person in Christ shall be a partaker of eternal life, being freed from eternal death.
B. Inferences taken from the special scope of a particular passage. Again, John 8:51, When the whole is viewed we can conclude the ultimate end. Jesus was demonstrating that He was not possessed by an evil spirit, since the keeping of His words would gain eternal life for all who obeyed. Satan on the other hand will lead men into sin, the wages paid, everlasting punishment. Therefore we may understand the following inferences.
B-1. The doctrine which will produces such wholesome effects cannot be false and diabolical.
B-2. Christ’s saving truths are to be offered even to those who are guilty of slandering them.
B-3. There is no other way by which to liberate our minds from doubts formed against truth, than a mind and attitude that is ready to obey and acknowledge that truth.
B-4. The precepts of Christ are to be regarded, obeyed and received, even though they may be ridiculed or slandered by the most highly educated of men or women.
C. Inferences taken from the very special examination of particular words or phrases. Again John 8:51 will give us another illustration. For instance should it be asked,
C-1. Why did Jesus appoint beforehand in a solemn declaration, something to an oath? The answer is; through repetition, He would silence the repeated false accusations of those who opposed Him:
Therefore it may be inferred that in proportion to the deep seated evil intent and the impudence and shameless boldness of these men who falsely accused Him, a much greater zeal is required to vindication that truth.
C-2. Should we still ask why Jesus added the words, “I say unto you.” If so, we would reply in opposition to their accusation in,
John 8:48, “Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil = (demon?)”
We can then infer that he who desires the knowledge of the truth, ought to not only counter the lies invented by evil men against God’s church, but also to reply to those things which the Lord says of them, and they of Him.
D. Inferences extracted from a collection of the text with the context. In this instance, the principal words of a text should be compared together, this in order that inferences may be gathered and drawn from their mutual relation to each other.
D-1. 1 Timothy 1:15, “This is a faithful saying,” with verse 4, “Neither give heed to fables.” The inference, the empty legends of the Jews, combined with their relationship with the Gentiles and their gods. The appearances of Gentile gods can then be compared to uncertain Jewish fables: But the narration in the Gospel concerning Jesus Christ is both true, and is to be received with faith.
D-2. 1 Timothy 1:15, “This is a faithful saying,” with verse 6, “vain jangling = (empty talk.)” Inference is, God usually punishes those who will not believe the Gospel, He judicially giving them up to a voluntarily belief in the most blatant of lies or fables. Evolution is a good example. Also woman’s choice to abort, is more important than the life of a child, this is empty talk, vain jangling.
D-3. Compare the words, 1 Timothy 1:15, “Worthy of all acceptation,” with verse 8, “The law is good.” The law, as given by God, is both good in itself and has a positive effect on man’s behavior. But to a sinner it is so formidable it puts them on the run. But the Gospel recommends itself to the terrified conscience, and to repentant men, as a saying or discourse in every way worthy of good character and good conduct.
E. Inferences implied from a gathering of the text with parallel passages. Inferences from parallel passages if considered with a particular view to the deduction of inferences, will supply the reader with many instances, from where they may draw various important truths which follow immediately from some preceding truth.
2 Timothy 1:8, Paul exhorts Timothy, “Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord.” Compare this to,
Romans 1:16, where Paul states, “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth, to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.” Also,
Isaiah 28:16, “Thus saith the Lord God, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.”
Isaiah 49:23, Kings and queens shall bow down, — “and lick up the dust of thy feet; and thou shalt know that I am the LORD: for they shall not be ashamed that wait for me.”
Last clause mentioned in Romans 10:11, “For the Scripture saith, whosoever believeth on Him shall not be ashamed,” that is, confounded or disappointed of our future hope. From this collection of verses, the two following inferences may be derived.
E-1. Faithful ministers of the Gospel require nothing from others which they do not by their own experience know to be both possible and that can be affected or performed by God.
E-2. All those, who have already believed, or do now or in the future believe in Christ, have in and through Him, all the blessings foretold by the prophets: all the promises of God, In, or through Jesus, being “yea,” that is, true in themselves, and amen, that is, faithfully fulfilled to all those who believe in Christ.
2 Corinthians 1:20, “For all the promises of God in Him are yea, and in Him A-men’, unto the glory of God by us.”
Another source of inferences is the collection of the text with the consideration of the following external circumstances.
THE TIME when the words were spoken, when the things written about were done, and where they took place.
Matthew 27:52, “the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose.” When did this event take place? It was after Christ’s Resurrection, and not before, verse 53, “and came out of the graves after His Resurrection.”
Christ Himself was the first fruits of them that slept. 1 Corinthians 15:20, “Now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the first-fruit’s of them that slept.”
The graves were opened at His death by the earthquake, and the bodies came out at His resurrection. Inference; the satisfactory power of Christ’s death was so great, that it opened a way to life to those who believed on Him as the Messiah that was to come, as well as to those who believe in Him following His incarnation: and both will share in the benefits flowing from His resurrection.
THE PLACE where the words were spoken:
Matthew 26:39-42, “Father — not as I will, but as thou wilt.” Where did Christ utter the exclamation, in a garden.
The inference is, Jesus who made atonement for the sins of all men, voluntarily submitted Himself in the garden of passion, to the will of God: A Garden from which mankind withdrew himself, called Eden.
The occasion when the words were spoken: In Matthew 16:3, Christ rebukes the Pharisees, because they did not observe the signs of the times. And on what occasion, when they required Him to show them a sign from heaven? The inference is, such are the spiritually blind, the sinner and the corrupt. Men disregard the signs show to them by God, requiring new signs, signs that are more agreeable to their own desires.
In what manner a thing is done. Acts 9:9, during the blindness in which Saul continued for three days and three nights, God brought him to the saving knowledge of Himself. The inference. Those, whom God vouchsafes to enlighten, he first convinces of their spiritual blindness.
Those who search the Scriptures diligently, meditate on the many inferences, and follow God’s well marked path, will soon experience the truth of the writer of the Psalms and what he observed,
Psalms 119:96, “Thy commandment is exceeding broad,” and verse 130, “the entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.”
Scriptures are they which will enlighten our minds with a true and saving knowledge that has been appointed by our Savior for our salvation.
We will observe through the Scriptures what we were, what we are, and what we shall be: They show to us God’s wonderful works, all given to us as His gift. We are told what is expected of us: they will show us the adversaries we will encounter, and how to engage them successfully. They show us the mercy and justice of the Lord, the joys of personal salvation, and the destruction of those who reject His beloved Son.
Phil LaSpino www.seekfirstwisdom.com