2 Timothy 2:14-15 Keep reminding them of these things. Warn them before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen. Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.

Commentary: Literal interpretations can often lead to arguments over meaningless issues. To protect yourself against this trap, we are instructed to be well prepared. Before entering into an argument about the meaning of Scripture, ask yourself if you have devoted sufficient study to present the truth.

1 Thessalonians 5:19-22 Do not put out the Spirit's fire; do not treat prophecies with contempt. Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil.

Commentary: We are being instructed to avoid the tendency to squash the enthusiastic presentation of an interpretation of God's word. Arguing over interpretation may well prove to be a poor witness to others. Instead, we are told to listen, check it out and test it with other scripture. Take no man's word for its meaning. Through our own study, and through the guidance offered by the Holy Spirit, we can hold on to the good (the truth) while discarding the bad (errors introduced by man's interpretations).

1 John 4:1 Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.

Commentary: You may wish to read further (1 John 4:2-3). The Apostle John points out that it is wise to test the teaching we encounter. Testing should be against God's word so that we will not be deceived. Faithful bible study, daily prayer and regular assemble with God's people form our greatest defense against false teaching.