We have mentioned four rings of context. Have you noticed? Each ring is a layer that lets the Bible interpret itself. There are plenty of commentary books written about the Bible. By far the best commentary on the Bible is the Bible itself.
Scripture passages that address the same subject or tell of the same event are called “parallel passages.” They often give us additional insights into each other. Through its long journey, the Bible often touches on the same or similar matters. For example, Genesis tells Noah’s story, but nine other places in the Bible also mention Noah by name. Scripture references that relate to each other are called “cross-references.” Each cross-reference contributes to what we know about Noah. Genesis 6-7 tells about Noah obediently building the ark. The cross-reference in 1 Peter 2:5 shares a new detail, that Noah was preaching about righteousness. That is the Bible elaborating on itself, helping our understanding to be more complete.
Some editions of the Bible come with cross-references. With or without that help, be building your own list of cross-references for any important topic. Some Bibles have enough space in the margins for lists and notes. If your Bible is too small, use a personal notebook, whether paper or digital. As you read through the Bible, what you discover for yourself will be most meaningful. Brief devotional readings are encouraging and have their place. They cannot replace reading through entire books of the Bible. Pay attention to all that the Bible says. It “all” comes from God, and “every word” contributes to our full understanding.
Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God. (Matthew 4:4 cf. Deuteronomy 8:3)
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)