Meaning and Application

Is there a difference between “meaning” and “application”? Can a passage of the Scriptures have multiple meanings? Can the same passage have multiple applications?

There are those who say that a verse or passage of the Scriptures has only one meaning – the one intended by the writer. Others maintain that whatever the Holy Spirit speaks to your heart in a given moment is the intended meaning. Many cautiously assert “it depends”. Under which of these three camps do you find yourself?

Let us consider John 3:16 as an example. It reads, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life”(NIV). It is clear that this verse states that God, prompted by His love, offers eternal life to those who believe in His Son. That is the meaning I see and understand that John, the writer, wanted to convey. Do you see differently? How about its application? Is it universal in the sense that it is offered to all or do you think it is only limited in its effective application? Personally, I believe it is universal because of the words “world” and “whoever”. I just don’t see them interpreted differently than its native meaning. So, to me John 3:16 has one meaning and one application.

Philippians 4:13 is another example worthy of citation. The New International Version renders it, “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.” The context of this statement by Paul will give us a clear meaning. He talked about the fact that he knew what it was to be in need or to have plenty. He went on to say that he learned the secret of being content in any and every situation – well-fed, hungry, living in abundance or want. Then he proceeded by saying he could do all things through Him who gave him strength. Meaning, Paul was able to maintain a contented life pleasing to God through them all because God gave him strength. The immediate application of being able to “do everything” is to be content whether in abundance or dire need. Now is that the only application we can glean from this verse? I think the truth of this verse can be claimed in situations where we need God’s strength in order for us to accomplish what He wills for us to do. The same can be said when we find ourselves traversing life’s ups and downs, and, like Paul when we go through aplenty, stringency, sickness and good health. We can live through these and emerge triumphant because He supplies the power and energy.

What have we learned from these examples? Meaning never change but application does. Meaning is the principle of truth which can have various applications in different situation.

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