Who knows?

It seems as if there is a trend that says that all can equally and authoritatively interpret the Bible. (Usually the "authoritative stance" is the one from the mouth of the person who raises his or her voice the loudest.) This seems problematic when you consider the thousands of divisions that have come from this idea. How do we know which interpretation is the correct one. I believe in the inspiration of scripture but to say that well intended and studied Christians all come to the same conclusion would be ignoring the obvious fact that we do not. My thought is this...should there be a larger counsel of scholars in their respective fields that help us understand the real meaning of a text or can anyone understand scripture? I am not talking about God's plan to save us, I believe the core of that message is generally accepted. Interpretation has changed throughout time. As of now I think it is a combination of the two. I think that we need help from learned people in their fields as well as the witness of faithful servants of Christ to help us wisely apply what the text teaches us. More importantly I don't believe faith is about the right interpretation it is about life and the way the scriptures manifest themselves in a person's life. Take one look at the lives of people who insist they are right, not very compelling. I bring this up because we need to look into why we are doing what we are doing and what authority it has. We also need to be weary of following unscrptural practices that stem from obstinant heart that refuses to listen to anyone other than self. I don't know...just some thoughts. What do you think? Do you think that all people can interpret the Bible with equal authority? Who in the congregation is best equipped to help aid translation? Would we listen if it contradicted us? How can we get to what the text is saying? How can we live more like Jesus in a Biblical manner?