We have the Bible translated into many different languages so that anyone and everyone can read it. Once upon a time that wasn’t the case, but God has moved people over the years to translate the Bible from Hebrew and Greek into other languages. It’s still going on today!
Translation is great and helps us to know and understand God’s words, because most of us can’t read or understand Hebrew and Greek. But sometimes when you translate from one language to another, some information or meaning gets lost along the way. For the most part all the meaning comes across, but there are a few things that don’t here and there. Add to that the way our current languages constantly change as we use them, and the vast difference in the time frames and cultures during which the Bible was written. Now you have some things that don’t always make sense, especially to a modern, Western mind.
Am I saying that everyone should learn Hebrew and Greek? No. Am I saying that everyone should be an expert on Hebrew and Greek culture? No. I am saying that if you don’t know what something in the Bible means, you might need to go look up what it means in the original languages. You may even need to do some cultural study to figure out why it was said and how it applies then and now.
I would also suggest that you study this way even on Bible passages that you know well. I know that some passages that I thought meant one thing actually mean another!
Am I telling you what to do and how to study your Bible? No. I’m telling you what I have experienced. Am I suggesting that you try it? Yes. Do you always have to study this way? No. Just study God’s words, and as you learn with God you’ll naturally find ways to study deeper and differently.
God is magnified (so you can see parts of Him better) and glorified (so you can know His greatness) when you study your Bible. God also leads you in your study, and speaks to you when you study. Listen to Him. Remember that these are God’s words, and He can explain them better than any language!