Perhaps one of the greatest obstacles to understanding the Bible is the presuppositions you may bring tothe Text.
Be careful of bringing your socio-cultural perceptions, because it will alter the context and meaning of the Text.
The writers of the Bible wrote from and to an audience with a cultural experience much different fromour own; as much as two to several thousand years in difference! Take the time to learn about thesociety and culture that the Bible was addressing.
Skill Builder examples:
Cultural revelations… limitations of the Law
Architectural detail…a look at interior design…
Introduction to The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament