A Problem Passage Interpretation Plan

Identify the problem(s) in the passage and show the opposing verses which make it a problem
List realistic alternative interpretations (omit obviously unrealistic interpretations). Add additional alternatives if you discover any later
Write out the thought development of the entire book if the book is short. With long books, trace the thought development from two chapters before the problem passage to two chapters after it
Check the historical background of the book for any information which may shed light on the passage
Identify key words and perform word studies if necessary

Find the definition of the word in Vine's Expository Dictionary or Colin Brown's A Dictionary of New Testament Theology
Using an analytical concordance:
- - Check the uses of the word in the same book
- - Check the uses of the word in the same author's other books (if any)
- - Check the uses of the word in the rest of the New Testament
1. Using the following sources, identify and examine helpful parallel passages
Margin of the NASB Bible
Analytical Concordances &/or Bible Dictionaries
Special cross-referencing aids (Nave's Topical Bible, Treasury of Bible Knowledge, chain-reference Bibles)