Hermeneutical Approaches in New Testament Studies: Galatians 2:11–14 as a Test Case in the Search for a Suitable Methodology
Location
Seminary S215
Start Date
9-2-2018 12:30 PM
End Date
9-2-2018 1:00 PM
Description
The discipline of New Testament Studies is challenged by the ever-increasing number of approaches to biblical exegesis. However, these approaches provide new angles and insightful nuances. Today, hermeneutical approaches feature a wide spectrum from detached objectivity to preposterous subjectivity. So, how to decide which methodologies provide meaningful and appropriate interpretations? Chapter one explores how recognized methodologies developed along with its orientations: diachronic, synchronic, and a-chronic. Respectively, these have as formative orientation the author, the text, and the reader. I investigate whether the principle of suspicion—intrinsic to Biblical Studies—is harmful. In the following chapters I use Galatians 2:11–14 as test case; a complex text shown by the diverse interpretations. The second and third chapters explore what is paramount to sound interpretation employing Narrative Criticism and Social-Scientific Criticism. Under the influence of suspicion, doubt is produced; however, the same approach can produce satisfactory results without those presuppositions. Scholars still doubt the validity of Paul’s remarks for various reasons. A hermeneutic of trust brings the narrative and social elements together to present a cohesive picture of what Paul intended with his personal story. The crux issue of finding approaches suitable for exegesis may be resolved when we allow the text to challenge us.
Hermeneutical Approaches in New Testament Studies: Galatians 2:11–14 as a Test Case in the Search for a Suitable Methodology
Seminary S215
The discipline of New Testament Studies is challenged by the ever-increasing number of approaches to biblical exegesis. However, these approaches provide new angles and insightful nuances. Today, hermeneutical approaches feature a wide spectrum from detached objectivity to preposterous subjectivity. So, how to decide which methodologies provide meaningful and appropriate interpretations? Chapter one explores how recognized methodologies developed along with its orientations: diachronic, synchronic, and a-chronic. Respectively, these have as formative orientation the author, the text, and the reader. I investigate whether the principle of suspicion—intrinsic to Biblical Studies—is harmful. In the following chapters I use Galatians 2:11–14 as test case; a complex text shown by the diverse interpretations. The second and third chapters explore what is paramount to sound interpretation employing Narrative Criticism and Social-Scientific Criticism. Under the influence of suspicion, doubt is produced; however, the same approach can produce satisfactory results without those presuppositions. Scholars still doubt the validity of Paul’s remarks for various reasons. A hermeneutic of trust brings the narrative and social elements together to present a cohesive picture of what Paul intended with his personal story. The crux issue of finding approaches suitable for exegesis may be resolved when we allow the text to challenge us.