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Dr Tan asserts that in order to understand the Bible we must assume that it is using 'words normally and without multiple meaning' (ibid. 30). At the heart of Dr Tan's assumptions, which are widely accepted among conservative Christians, is the conviction that the literal method of interpretation makes it easier for us to understand the meaning of Scripture. Arguing that God intended us to know the meaning of His Word easily, Dr Tan therefore asserts that the literal method is correct. (24:3) These assumptions may sound appealing, but in practice they do not stand the test of application, especially in the realm of prophecy. This will become self-evident as we examine some of the differing interpretations of the prophecies found in Matthew, chapter 24. Many Christian commentators have used the literal method of interpretation, and yet it is evident that they differ widely as to what they believe to be the meaning of the text. If the Scriptures were written, as some literalists argue, in a simple and plain language so that they could be easily understood, it is reasonable to assume there would not be so many conflicting interpretations.
(24:4)
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