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not realizing that others might have a differing interpretation which by definition is allowable in Sola Scriptura, as all men are able to interpret the Bible through the Holy Spirit.

2 things:

First, there is no private interpretation according to 2 Peter 1:20. So we know that God meant something very specific by His Word.

Second, that within that correct universal interpretation, there are implications for my life that may not be as important to you. The scripture means the same thing in it's raw definition, but application to practical reality may vary.

So if we have no basis for a personal understanding of scripture, what do you do with this verse:

1 John 2:27

But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.

First, there is no private interpretation according to 2 Peter 1:20. So we know that God meant something very specific by His Word.

OK, then if there are no private interepretations allowed, then what *is* allowed? You may say that God meant something very specific by His Word, and I would 100% agree. That's not the issue. It's the interpretation by us that is the issue. Scriptre is not self-interpreting or always self-evident.

Second, that within that correct universal interpretation, there are implications for my life that may not be as important to you. The scripture means the same thing in it's raw definition, but application to practical reality may vary.

I've heard this argument several times from Protestants before, and it just doesn't set right with me. Primarily, this is because the differences are *not* trivial. The nature of the Eucharist (Real Presence vs. Sorta real presence vs. just a symbol), how is Salvation received (works/faith vs. faith alone vs. works alone), and whether man has free will are just three non-trivial disputes between the Christian faiths.

I won't get into the more fringe sects and their beliefs, but those that believe in Saturday worship, a modalist God, Jesus is really the Archangel Michael and a created, lesser "god", soul sleep, and soul annihilation, they all seem to believe that the Holy Spirit is guiding them to these beliefs through the Scriptures.

Obviously, we know they're wrong, because Scripture clearly contradicts these beleifs, but there are also more subtle errors made by people interpreting the Scriptures.