Distinguishing Between Example and Principle in Personal Application
Distinguishing between example and principle in personal application involves understanding whether a biblical text presents a universal truth or a specific instance that illustrates a broader concept. A principle is a fundamental truth or law that serves as the foundation for belief or behavior, while an example is a specific case or instance that demonstrates or illustrates that principle.
The Apostle Paul, for instance, considered himself a "pattern" or "sample" of God's mercy, demonstrating God's long-suffering to assure others of His grace [3]. Here, Paul's personal experience serves as an example illustrating the principle of God's boundless mercy. Similarly, the generosity of the Corinthian church in their contributions provided "experimental proof" of their Christian character and subjection to the Gospel, serving as an example of their faith in action [4].
In some cases, a biblical passage might state a general principle that is then illustrated by a particular example. James 4:17, for example, states the principle that "to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin." This general truth is illustrated by the preceding discussion, emphasizing that knowledge without practice is considered a significant sin [1]. The passage suggests that feelings and impressions, if not acted upon, can dissipate, leading to a cessation of feeling [1].
Adam Clarke, in his commentary on Galatians 6:4, emphasizes that a Christian's self-examination should be based on the "words and example of Christ," not by comparing oneself to others [2]. Christ's life and teachings are presented as the ultimate "pattern" and "standard" for imitation, establishing a principle for conduct [2]. This highlights that while Christ's life is an example, it also embodies the foundational principles for Christian living.
The concept of a "principle" can also refer to a regular occurrence or pattern, such as the "law of gravity" [5]. In Romans 7:21, Paul refers to a "principle of life" (literally "law") to describe the consistent struggle between the desire to do right and the tendency to do wrong, revealing a regular pattern in human experience [5]. This "principle" describes an inherent reality rather than a prescriptive command.
Understanding this distinction is crucial for accurate biblical interpretation and personal application, ensuring that specific instances are not elevated to universal commands unless they clearly embody a broader, divinely established principle.
Sources
- James (Presbyterian) “Jamieson, Fausset & Brown on James 4:17: The general principle illustrated by the particular example just discussed is here stated: knowledge without practice is imputed to a man as great and presumptuous sin. James reverts to the principle with which he started. Nothing more injures the soul than wasted impressions. Feelings exhaust themselves and evaporate, if not embodied in practice. As we will not act except we feel, so if we will not act out our feelings, we shall soon cease to feel. Next: James Chapter 5”
- Galatians (Methodist/Wesleyan) “Adam Clarke on Galatians 6:4: Prove his own work - Let him examine himself and his conduct by the words and example of Christ; and if he find that they bear this touchstone, then he shall have rejoicing in himself alone, feeling that he resembles his Lord and Master, and not in another - not derive his consolation from comparing himself with another who may be weaker, or less instructed than himself. The only rule for a Christian is the word of Christ; the only pattern for his imitation is the example of Christ. He should not compare himself with others; they are not his standard. Christ hath ”
- 1 Timothy (Presbyterian) “Jamieson, Fausset & Brown on 1 Timothy 1:16: Howbeit--Greek, "But"; contrasting his own conscious sinfulness with God's gracious visitation of him in mercy. for this cause--for this very purpose. that in me--in my case. first--"foremost." As I was "foremost" (Greek for chief, Ti1 1:15) in sin, so God has made me the "foremost" sample of mercy. show--to His own glory (the middle Greek, voice), Eph 2:7. all long-suffering--Greek, "the whole (of His) long-suffering," namely, in bearing so long with me while I was a persecutor. a pattern--a sample (Co1 10:6, Co1 10:11) to assure the gr”
- 2 Corinthians (Presbyterian) “Jamieson, Fausset & Brown on 2 Corinthians 9:13: by--through occasion of. experiment--Translate, "the experience" [ELLICOTT and others]. Or, "the experimental proof" of your Christian character, afforded by "this ministration." they--the recipients. for your professed subjection--Greek, "for the subjection of your profession"; that is, your subjection in accordance with your profession, in relation to the Gospel. Ye yield yourselves in willing subjection to the Gospel precepts, evinced in acts, as well as in profession. your liberal distribution--Greek, "the liberality of your contribu”
- Romans (Protestant academic) “Tyndale House on Romans 7:21: 7:21 principle of life (literally law): Paul is referring to a regular occurrence, such as when we speak of the “law of gravity.” The struggle between wanting to do what is right and instead doing what is wrong reveals a regular pattern operating in the human sphere.”