Complete the “Narrative Interpretive Template” for one of the following narratives: Matthew 2:1-15 (The Visit of the Magi) or Matthew 3:13-17 (esus’ baptism). Then, briefly discuss how the hermeneutic principles of the chart help explain the meaning of the passage.
WHO?
Who are the people involved in the narrative? Is there a protagonist and an antagonist? From whose perspective is the story told? Is there a narrator? Is the narrator biased?
EXTRAS
Summarize the plot. If it is part of a larger plot, note that.
Is there tension or conflict? If so, how is it resolved?
Does the author provide any editorial comments in the pericopes preceding or following this narrative to assist in understanding the narrative?
WHAT?
What was the topic or situation? (Bear in mind the section preceding and following your selection.) Were there any key words uttered and quotes made that would require a word study? If so, why would the author record those specific things? What’s important about them?
WHEN?
When did it take place? (According to the surrounding context, is there any indication of the time period for this pericope? For example, what key events come before and after your particular pericope?)
WHERE?
Where did it take place? (According to the surrounding context, is there any indication of the time period for this pericope? For example, cities, bodies of land/water, gate, well, synagogue, Temple, etc.)
WHY?
Why did the gospel author record this narrative? Why did Jesus say what he said? Why did characters act as they did? Why is this narrative recorded by the gospel account author in light of the major themes or concerns in that gospel?
1st Century Information
What elements in this narrative would the original hearers understand that we may not, or that we may have 21st century preconceptions about? What historical elements need further study on your part to fully grasp?
HOW?
In 3-4 paragraphs, explain how you would interpret this narrative passage from what you filled out in the “Narrative Notes” above? With regards to the parallel text in the other gospel accounts, pay attention to these points: (1) bear in mind who the audience is in the parallel accounts, (2) what similarities and differences are there in the parallel pericopes, (3) identify the specific reasons why one author would include or exclude something the other author did or did not.
