Interpreting the Bible Quizzes

Singular Nature Meaning

"She said he was nice" - can mean lots of things depending on emphasis. But can't mean all things at once.

2 Overarching Forms of OT Laws

1. Apodictic (e.g. the decalogue exodus 20:1-17) - overarching commands/principles are given. No if/then 2. Casuistic (if..then; ex. the "mishpatim" in the book of the covenant) - mishpatim - set of laws that establishes principles that judges use. If/then.

The NT as history - NT Interpretation (from Johnston 151-184)

1. The NT and its historical context 2. The NT as historical record 3. The NT and biblical history

Case Study: The mountain-temple relationship in Exodus 19-40

A. Exodus 19-40 1. 19:1-19 Preparations for the Covenant 2. 20:1-17 The Decalogue 3. 20:18-23:33 The Book of the Covenant 4. 24:1-18 The Sealing of the Covenant 5. 25:1-31:18 Tabernacle Instructions 6. 32:1-34:35 Golden Calf and Covenant Renewal 7. 35:1-40:38 Building the Tabernacle

Historical Background of People of Israel (from Johnston 19-48)

A. National Identity B. Political Governance C. Religious Experience D. Daily Life and Society E. Conclusion

Micah (from Johnston 95-139)

Act justly, love mercy, walk humbly, with your God

Zephaniah (from Johnston 95-139)

Day of the Lord - 2 sides: judgement and salvation call to faith and endurance to the remnant God is just

Principles for Interpreting OT prophecy (from Biblical Interpretation 451-505)

Forthtelling vs Foretelling The many ways of fulfillment specific principles for interpretation - prophecy

Haggai (from Johnston 95-139)

Gave assurance that the covenant with David still stood and the messianic kingdom would come.

Daniel (from Johnston 95-139)

God's sovereignty over history faithful to those who trust Him under persecution

Theo. Issues in NT: The Ethics of Jesus (from Biblical Interpretation 510-541)

Jesus' standards should be our constant goal (already, but not yet) His intended ethic is for all believers (not non-believers) apart from a defensible hermeneutical principle, it is irresponsible for interpreters to assume that a certain teaching of Jesus does not apply to us in our current circumstances

Hosea (from Johnston 95-139)

Marriage to Gomer picture of broken covenant / promiscous wife God won't give up on us

New Testament Story (from Johnston 151-184)

New Testament Story A. The story of Jesus - It is primarily a story. - It is about the fulfillment of promise. - It is about the kingdom of God. - It is about the person of Jesus. - It is about the work of Jesus. - It is about the particular and the cosmic. B. Quiet beginnings C. Dramatic developments D. The eye-witness view E. The turning point F. The finale... G. ...or perhaps only the beginning H. A new chapter I. A new mission J. A new future

Embedded Genres

Popular Proverbs Blessings Curses/Riddles Fables Parables/Songs Lists

ANE Temples as Palaces of Justice (Hurowitz)

Publication of laws Settling of disputes Oath taking Ordeals

2 Things than can both be true related to cultural context

Scripture did not simply fall out of heaven Israel was a distinct people

Hope for Jerusalem beyond Divine Judgment (City of God 115-139)

The Babylonian decimation of the temple-city raised profound questions regarding God's ongoing relationship with those who survived the prolonged and horrendous siege of Jerusalem. Did the downfall of the city mark the end of God's relationship with its people? The prophetic book of Habakkuk addresses this questions in a striking manner. The Righteous Shall Live by Faith (Habakkuk) The overall message of the book of Habakkuk implies that those who have faith in God will look beyond the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. Their faith in God will give them confidence that God's glory will ultimately fill the whole earth and that those who trust in Him will be protected. Jeremiah's Warning against a False Confidence in Jerusalem The Israelites that stayed in Jerusalem during exile had a false sense of security (faith in a physical location). Jeremiah warned them that things would be worse for them, than for those Israelites who had been exiled to Babylon. Daniel: A Babylonian Perspective on Jerusalem's Future Describes the experiences in Babylon of 4 Judean exiles: Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Daniel interprets Nebuchadnezzar's dream: Neb. sees great image with head of gold, chest and arms of silver, a middle and thighs of bronze, legs of iron, and feet partly of iron and partly of clay. As Neb. watches, a stone strikes the image, destroying it completely. Finally the stone becomes "a great mount" and fills the whole earth (Dan. 2:34). Dream means: 4 consecutive human kingdoms, eventually these kingdoms are destroyed when the God of heaven sets up a new kingdom. Kingdom of God is symbolized by a rock that becomes a huge mountain, filling the whole earth - recalls prophetic expectations associated with Mount Zion. Story of fiery furnace. God protecting Israel while in exile. God's Anger toward Jerusalem (Lamentations) If the book of Daniel conveys something of God's protection of those in exile in Babylon, the book of Lamentations in marked contrast graphically describes the horror that befell those in Jerusalem. In a series of alphabetic acrostics, Lamentations conveys the painful consequences of divine anger. Yet, against the blackest of backgrounds, the sufferer in Lamentations 3 unexpectedly looks up with hope: "the steadfast love of the Lord never ceases...mercies are new every morning...Lord is good to those who wait for Him...Lord will not cast off forever..." Hope for future was not focused on renewal of Jerusalem to its pre-exilic state - something much more significant was anticipated, still centered on God's desire to dwell in harmony with humanity on the earth. Ezekiel's Visions of God Abandoning and Returning to Jerusalem Ezekiel sees God reluctantly abandoning the temple and Jerusalem. Vision of valley of dry bones that will be brought to life. God returns to temple-city with intention to dwell there forever. Ezekiel 40-48 is idealized and symbolic description of temple. Not actual blueprints. Ezekiel's vision of the restored Jerusalem is not a blueprint for the post exilic reconstruction of Jerusalem. It envisions so much more, for the fulfillment goes beyond what might be achieved by human efforts alone. While the imagery is temple orientated, Ezekiel's city resembles Isaiah's vision of a God-created new Jerusalem that is to be equated with a re-created earth. Zechariah's Vision of a Faithful Jerusalem The good life that Zechariah projects for the inhabitants of Jerusalem is a mixture of the material and the spiritual. Peace, prosperity, and security are dominant themes, but his is no secular city. What makes it all possible is God, who carries out His purpose, and the source of the good life in Zion is the presence of Yahweh in its midst. Zechariah 8 begins, "I will return to Zion and will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem," and it ends, "we have heard that God is with you." Conclusion The combined witness of the OT prophets of the eighth to the sixth centuries BC affirms that a new Jerusalem is central to their eschatological expectations. These expectations envisage a city that far exceeds a restoration of Jerusalem to its pre exilic state. Language and imagery used to describe future Jerusalem strongly suggest that the astounding expectations of the prophets are linked to the idea that the whole earth will become God's temple-city through a process of re-creation. Zion becomes a symbol of new creation and redeemed humanity that lives before God without sin, death or pain because God rules in its midst. Prophetic expectations exceed that of simply a rebuilt historical city of Jerusalem, but they anticipate God's creation of New Jerusalem. Expectations are also not simply focused on nation of Israel, but involve the nations of the earth.

Test Case: "Two roads diverge in a yellow wood"

The author doesn't say that one road is less traveled. He says that he'll be telling people that that's the case. The author will claim that his decision will have made all the difference to give himself credit or blame for his life. Who has the authority to decide the the meaning of the poem? (Wouldn't it be Robert Frost?) How is that meaning to be decided? (since Frost is dead, we decide on basis of words itself, grammar, syntax) Is there more than one meaning? (could be) Does the poem contain multiple applications? (possibly, but all of this happens at discretion of author)

"Filling up" (πληρόω/plēroō) vs. direct fulfillment

The meaning of OT is "filled up" in their meaning in the NT. Not a direct 1 to 1 fulfillment.

Exegetical Commentaries

Three types of commentaries: (1) Devotional commentaries (commentary on whole bible - avoid these) (2) Expository commentaries (primarily geared toward pastors preaching - avoid these if you can (3) Exegetical commentaries fit academic standard (use these)

Case Study: Isaiah 2:1-5 (cf. Mic 4:1-5)

Vision of "mountain of God" grows throughout Isaiah 2:1 The word that Isaiah the son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. 2:2 It shall come to pass in the latter days that the mountain of the house of the LORD shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and shall be lifted up above the hills; and all the nations shall flow to it, 2:3 and many peoples shall come, and say: "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to thehouse of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths." Forout of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. 2:4 He shall judge between the nations, and shall decide disputes for many peoples; and they shallbeat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up swordagainst nation, neither shall they learn war anymore. 2:5 O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the LORD. Isaiah 11:1-9 11:1 There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit.• 11:2 And the Spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit ofcounsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD.• 11:3 And his delight shall be in the fear of the LORD. He shall not judge by what his eyes see, or decidedisputes by what his ears hear,• 11:4 but with righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; and heshall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked.• 11:5 Righteousness shall be the belt of his waist, and faithfulness the belt of his loins.• 11:6 The wolf shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the young goat, and the calf andthe lion and the fattened calf together; and a little child shall lead them.• 11:7 The cow and the bear shall graze; their young shall lie down together; and the lion shall eat straw like theox.• 11:8 The nursing child shall play over the hole of the cobra, and the weaned child shall put his hand on theadder's den.• 11:9 They shall not hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain; for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD as the waters cover the sea. Isaiah 25:6-8 25:6 On this mountain the LORD of hosts will make for all peoples afeast of rich food, a feast of well-aged wine, of rich food full of marrow, ofaged wine well refined.25:7 And he will swallow up on this mountain the covering that is cast overall peoples, the veil that is spread over all nations.25:8 He will swallow up death forever; and the Lord GOD will wipe awaytears from all faces, and the reproach of his people he will take away fromall the earth, for the LORD has spoken. Isaiah 65:17-25 65:17 "For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth, and the former things shall not be remembered or come into mind. 65:18 But be glad and rejoice forever in that which I create; for behold, I create Jerusalem to be a joy, and her people to be a gladness. 65:19 I will rejoice in Jerusalem and be glad in my people; no more shall be heard in it the sound of weeping and the cry of distress. 65:20 No more shall there be in it an infant who lives but a few days, or an old man who does not fill out his days, for the young man shall die a hundred years old, and the sinner a hundred years old shall be accursed. 65:21 They shall build houses and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards and eat their fruit. 65:22 They shall not build and another inhabit; they shall not plant and another eat; for like the days of a tree shall the days of my people be, and my chosen shall long enjoy the work of their hands. 65:23 They shall not labor in vain or bear children for calamity, for they shall be the offspring of the blessed of the LORD, and their descendants with them. 65:24 Before they call I will answer; while they are yet speaking I will hear. 65:25 The wolf and the lamb shall graze together; the lion shall eat straw like the ox, and dust shall be the serpent's food. They shall not hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain," says the LORD.

Farewell Speech (from Biblical Interpretation 417-450)

address in the first-person voice reportedly given by someone shortly before his or her death. typically an exhortation

Zechariah

brought encouragement to those rebuilding the temple persevere and complete the rebuilding new covenant

Declarative praise vs descriptive praise (from Biblical Interpretation 451-505)

what God has done vs who God is

Proverbs (from Johnston 95-139)

wisdom literature father instructs his son in the pursuit of wisdom and avoidance of folly

Sola Scriptura

Scripture is our final authority. We put ourselves under its authority alone.

Jeremiah (from Johnston 95-139)

2 Hebrew words characterize Jeremiah's preaching: sheqer (lie, deception, delusion) and shub (turn, turn away, return, repent). 3 forms of sheqer: idolatry, false sense of security, false prophecy promise of a new covenant

The means of inspiration - 2 opposing views

2 polar opposite ideas: Oral dictation: God spoke audibly word for word. Perfectly dictated. Organic inspiration: context, genre, letters. God choose to inspire His word organically. He didn't "overtake" the minds of the writers. They were involved in the writing.

The Gospels' first audiences (from Biblical Interpretation 510-541)

each writer presumably highlighted different aspects of the life of Christ mainly because those aspects were particularly relevant to the individuals and congregations to whom they were writing

Mark (from Johnston 185-205)

earliest gospel Matthew and Luke used it as reference most likely primary purpose seems to have been to enable Christian believers to know the important features of the earthly life of the One whom they now knew as their heavenly Lord, and to provide them with a book that would be of great value in their evangelism.

The Holy Spirit: God's power and presence with His people - NT Theology (from Johnston 151-184)

p. 172

The goal: consummation of redemptive history - NT Theology (from Johnston 151-184)

p. 175

Quote from - Alexander, T. Desmond. From Eden to the New Jerusalem: An Introduction to Biblical Theology.

"Viewed from a modern-human rights perspective, these instructions discriminate cruelly against men with some kind of physical deformity. Why should priests with these imperfections be excluded from approaching the altar? Is this not blatant discrimination? Would we not legislate against such an outlook today? ...Everything associated with the tabernacle is part of a grand visual illustration. The Israelites viewed the Holy of Holies as a mini-cosmos. As a model of the earth the arrangements for the tabernacle reflect what the earth will be like as God's dwelling place. This is true regarding the instructions for the priesthood. Those who would dwell in God's presence must be perfect, without defect of any kind. Implicit in all this is the expectation that the future restoration of human beings to a holy state on a renewed earth will be accompanied by a restoration of our bodies to full capacity and strength. We shall be made whole physically, as well as morally. These instructions regarding the priests remind us that holiness and wholeness go together. To be holy is to be whole."

Epistles - Implications for Interpretation - General Considerations (from Biblical Interpretation 541-567)

"occasional" - page 542 pseudonymity - letter written by apostle of named author, not actual author - some scholars reject, some accept

"Full of Meaning" vs. Multiple Meanings

"she said he was nice" - which word you emphasize can change the meaning. variety of potential meanings. BUT there is one true meaning and it would depend on context of what comes before and after. Scripture is full of meaning, but it doesn't have multiple meanings.

Basic questions/guidelines for assessing commentaries for research in Biblical studies:

(1) Is the commentary published by an academic publisher (e.g., Baker, Zondervan, etc.)? (2) Is the commentary in an academic series (e.g., Apollos, Word Biblical Commentaries; Baker Exegetical Commentaries on the NT; etc.) (3) How many scholars are devoted to each book of the Bible? (Avoid commentary series that are entirely written by one or two scholars) (4) What are the credentials of the author involved?

Historical Classification of OT "Laws" - 3 categories

(1) Moral (e.g., Ex 20:1-17) (2) Civil (e.g., Ex 20:22-23:33) (3) Ceremonial Law (e.g., Leviticus; etc.) Problems with this terminology: (1) Not used in Scripture (2) Some laws might fall into more than one category (3) Christ has fulfilled all the law Conclusion: useful, but imperfect categories

Circles of Context

(inner to outer) text > paragraph > section > book and the circles can go out even further to whole Bible (meta-narrative of scripture)

Spheres of Context

(inner to outer) text > paragraphs > section > book immediate context = text & paragraphs context of the book = section & book

1 & 2 Chronicles (from Johnston 49-94)

1 Chr. 1-9 - Genealogies and lists 1 Noah & Abraham 2-8 The main tribal lines, notably David's family and Levites 9 Post-exilic Jerusalemites 1 Chr. 10-29 David: particularly military and religious leadership (difficulties and sins omitted) 2 Chr. 1-9 Solomon: particularly temple construction (apostasy omitted) 2 Chr. 10-36 Kings of Judah: Particularly reformers Hezekiah and Josiah (kings of Israel mostly omitted) Retelling of story of the monarchy period from a different perspective and for a different purpose. Written for Jewish community with rebuilt city and temple after return from exile. They are firmly within Persian empire. They didn't need explanation of exile (as in Kings), but encouragement from God's past provision for present circumstances. Focuses on David and his line and preparation and construction of temple. Broad vision of God's work and strong hope for future. Through God's covenant with king and people, He provided security, peace and prosperity, and through obedience in life and worship the small Jewish community can still experience His blessing.

Lecture 9: OT Narrative and Law - Intro

1 Corinthians 10:6-12 Now these things took place as examples for us, that we might not desire evil as they did. 7 Do not be idolaters as some of them were; as it is written, "The people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to play." 8 We must not indulge in sexual immorality as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in a single day. 9 We must not put Christ to the test, as some of them did and were destroyed by serpents, 10 nor grumble, as some of them did and were destroyed by the Destroyer. 11 Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come. 12 Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall. NT makes clear that things written down in past (OT) were written for instruction for believers.

1 & 2 Kings (from Johnston 49-94)

1 Kings 1-11 - United Kingdom: Solomon's accession and reign 1 Kings 12 - 2 Kings 17 - Divided Kingdom 1 Kings 12-16 Schism and early kings 1 Kings 17 - 2 Kings 8:15 Elijah and Elisha 2 Kings 8:16 - 17:41 Further kings, Israel's exile 2 Kings 18-25 - remaining kingdom: Judah's last kings and exile covers from death of David to death of his kingdom God blesses obedience and punishes apostasy Divine sovereignty and human responsibility are both relevant God's assessment of value may not be ours. Politically important kings like Omri receive less space than religiously important ones like his son Ahab. Prophets pervade the book, with 2 receiving more attention than many monarchs. Unnamed women and children share the story with kings and emperors. Throughout centuries, God preserves His people.

1 & 2 Samuel (from Johnston 49-94)

1 Samuel 1-7 Samuel as judge 1-3 Samuel and Eli 4-7 Wars with Philistines, ark captured and returned 8-15 Samuel and Saul 8-12 Saul becomes king 13-15 Various wars, Saul rejected 16-31 Saul and David 16-27 David's rise, Saul's jealousy, David a fugitive 28-31 Saul's final battle and death 2 Samuel - David 1-4 David's lament, civil war 5-10 David as king, Jerusalem as capital, ark installed, convent, empire 11-12 David, Bathsheba and Uriah 13-20 Rape of Tamar, Absalom's rebellion, Sheba's rebellion 21-24 Appendix overall picture shows David in his grandeur and weakness. David sought divine guidance, repented from terrible sin, and had continued faith in God.

Textual Criticism

1 Samuel 17:4 Then a champion named Goliath, from Gath, came out from the Philistine camp. He was nine feet, nine inches tall (HCSB) Then a champion came out from the camp of the Philistines. His name was Goliath; he was from Gath. He was close to seven feet tall. (NET) The reason this discrepancy exists is because the translations are using different source manuscripts. And we don't have the original autographs. This is why we need good text-critical methodology.

Joshua (from Johnston 49-94)

1-12 Invasion 1 Joshua's commission 2-5 Spies in Jericho, crossing Jordan, circumcision, Passover 5-8 Jericho and Ai, altar on Mount Ebal 9 Gibeonite deception 10-12 Campaigns in south and north, list of conquered kings 13-24 settlement 13-21 tribal allocations, cities of refuge and Levitical towns 22 return of eastern tribes 23-24 covenant renewal at Schechem God fulfilling the promise made to Abraham by bringing his descendants back into the land promised to him. Joshua's name means "Yahweh saves" Herem - war term, devotion to destruction, destroying all living beings in devotions to one's god. only used in early ways of Israel's conquest of promised land. Why did God command Herem? 1. divine punishment on people for their sin, not their race 2. prevention for Israel adopting pagan beliefs and practices 3. OT had no concept of life after death. So God's punishment for sin had to be seen in this life, if at all.

Judges (from Johnston 49-94)

1-3:6 Partial conquest and theological assessment 3:7-16:31 oppression and deliverance: 12 judges 17-21 Two unattached narratives: 17-18 Danite idolatry and kidnap 19-21 Rape, murder and inter-tribal warfare Judges cycle They had no king and everyone did what was right in their own eyes. Theme: God's provision for His wayward people, raising up judges to deliver them and enable them to survive.

2 Extremes to Avoid Re: historical context

1. "Background material does not matter all" (minimizes the organic inspiration of Scripture) 2. "We can't understand the Bible without an exhaustive knowledge of the ANE" (minimizes the doctrine of the perspicuity of Scripture) (Bible is clear, we're looking to make it more clear)

Four overarching approaches to the application of the OT Law

1. Antinomian approach: moral, civil, ceremonial are not normative for the Christian - no sense in which we are under OT law. Problem with this is it ignores that what is moral for God shouldn't change between OT and NT. Right and wrong are unchanging. b) NT Occurrences only: only obey laws that are mentioned in NT. Problem is that it seems arbitrary. NT was written over long period of time. And assumes a discontinuity between OT and NT. c) Theonomy: moral, civil, ceremonial are normative for the Christian: problem is that this does not take into account what Christ did on the cross d) Westminster Confession of Faith (19.5): the moral law is normative for the Christian. (what prof. agrees with) "The moral law doth forever bind all, as well justified persons as others, to the obedience thereof; and that, not only in regard of the matter contained in it, but also in respect of the authority of God the Creator, who gave it.Neither doth Christ, in the gospel, any way dissolve, but much strengthen this obligation" (WCF 19.5). "...we may say that those moral laws was not related to the so called civil and cultic functions carry over into the church age. But why does this part of Israel's law carry over while the ceremonial and civil parts do not apply?... they are typologically fulfilled in Christ. For example, he is the true and final end-time priest and sacrifice, so that a priesthood that offers sacrifices is no longer needed" (Beale, G. K. A New Testament Biblical Theology: The Unfolding of the Old Testament in the New. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2011, p. 873). Moral, Civil and Ceremonial are ALL fulfilled in Christ Ceremonial & Civil - Christ is great High Priest. No longer need temple/sanctuary. Moral - Christ fulfilled this and it is how we are saved. If we do sin, we have an advocate. Normative for Christians to obey moral laws. Morality. civil/ceremonial - "Whoever sacrifices to any god, other than the LORD alone, shall be devoted to destruction" (Exod 22:20) moral - "You shall not steal" (Exod god, other than the LORD 20:15)

The two overarching tasks of semantic analysis

1. Determine the semantic range of the term - the basic question we are asking: what can the word mean? - survey the various uses of the term (in Scripture and outside of Scripture, if needed). - Note the differences between the various ways in which the term can be used. 2. Restrict the options within the semantic range - Rule out options within the semantic range that do not fit the context of the passage. - With the remaining options available, determine the most likely translational option. (You may not always be able to narrow it down to 1 perfect option)

Mountain-Temple Relationship in the ANE

1. Egypt 2. Syria/Palestine 3. Mesopotamia Deities were commonly believed to live on mountains difference in Exodus is that God doesn't LIVE on mountain but does descend to it

The Garden of Eden as a Prototypical Sanctuary

1. Gardens were associated with temples in the ANE. 2. Divine rest was associated with temple building in the ANE. 3. The Lord 'walks' in the garden as in later sanctuaries (Gen 3:8 Lev 26:12; Deut 23:15; 2 Sam 7:6-7). 4. When used together, the terms 'work' and 'keep' (Gen 2:15) recall the duties of the priesthood (Num 3:7-8; 8:26; 18:5-6). 5. Eden is entered from the east and is guarded by cherubim (Gen 3:24; Ex 35:18-22; 36:31;1 Kings 6:23-29). 6. The river flowing from Eden is similar to the river that flows from the temple in Ezekiel 47:12. 7. Eden was on a mountain. Mountains were associated with ANE Temples (Ezekiel 28:13-14) 8. Gold and Onyx are used in both the Garden of Eden and later sanctuaries (Gen 2:11-12; Ex 25:7, 11, 17, 31). 9. The tree of life is possibly symbolized by the tabernacle lampstand (Gen 2:9; 3:22; Ex 25:31-35). 10. The cosmos is created through six speeches by God, culminating in the Sabbath. The tabernacle was established after seven speeches by Moses, culminating in the Sabbath (Ex 25:1-30:10; 30:11-16; 30:17-21; 30:22-33; 30:34-38; 31:1-11; 31:12-17). SEE SLIDES FROM LECTURE 8

3 Basic Steps for Doing Historical/Cultural Analysis

1. Identify potential historical/cultural issues within your passage. 2. Utilize historical/cultural resources to research each topic identified. 3. Determine the extent to which understanding the historical/cultural is relevant to the speech act of the passage.

Principles of Interpretation - Poetry (from Biblical Interpretation 451-505)

1. Interpret as complete units, not isolated verses 2. Watch out for hyperboles. Not always literal interpretation. 3. Consider structure, genre and development of thought. 4. Carefully consider context, before applying Scripture.

Common Pitfalls of Historical Analysis

1. Monolithic outlook of the ANE (don't think that everyone thought the same way) 2. Noting similarities between Israelite culture and other cultures of the ANE, while ignoring their differences, (similar to 1.) 3. Similarity always equals derivation or influence (cf. Currid, John D. Against the Gods: The Polemical Theology of the Old Testament. Wheaton: Crossway, 2013.) (just because scripture is similar to something doesn't mean it's copying it - ex. Epic of Gilgamesh and flood story) 4. Exegeting the event, not the text (don't get caught up in historical event and forget what the text is actually saying) 5. Uncritical acceptance of claims related to historical/cultural issues (don't just accept what a scholar says - compare variety of scholars

What is Revelation? (from Johnston 265-272)

1. Revelation, not revelations - 'revelation (singular) from Jesus Christ' - NOT cryptic revelations, undecipherable until long after it was written - church members were told to read and listen attentively, because the time was near. So they would have had to understand the book in order to comply with it. So the context for properly understanding the book's message must be their historical situation, not ours. - nevertheless, message also transcends time 2. Revelation the letter - brief prologue is typical of a letter - identifies author (John) and seven recipients (churches) - wish of grace and peace, common in other letters - entire book is framed as letter to seven churches - visions are intended to be applied in practical ways to the specific circumstances of these churches. 3. Revelation the apocalypse - opening line: 'the revelation [Greek: apokalypsis] from Jesus Christ - Apocalypses: 1st person narrative in which a supernatural agent mediates revelatory visions to the narrator, who then records them for the benefit of others. These visions employ rich imagery, symbolism and other literary devices to communicate a transcendent perspective on human experience, especially that of the readers, and to encourage conformity to this perspective in thinking and behavior. But the vision are NOT encoded instructions. Symbolism conveys something about reality that is otherwise impossible to articulate. Symbols communicate transcendent truths in a meaningful way to the immediate addressees. Meant to give original recipients insight into their own situation and its place in God's plan of salvation, and to inspire confidence in God's promise. 4. Revelation the prophecy - Like OT prophetic texts, NOT foretelling the future. - contain's God's rebuke of the sinful compromises of his people and his critique of a corrupt society's rampant injustice and immorality. - 2 certainties: 1. God's coming judgement against unrighteousness and 2. God's promise to make a world that reflects his untarnished goodness and glory

Principles of Interpretation - Comedy (from Biblical Interpretation 417-450)

1. Since plot drives a comedy, interpretation must trace how tragedy turns to triumph 2. Character development merits some attention. note character traits of heroes and villains 3. discern what role God plays in the story: is it direct or indirect? 4. Define the comedy's main theme(s) 5. Application follows from the comedy's main theme(s)

Types of Biblical-Theological Approaches

1. Single-Center Approaches argues that there is one overarching center to the Biblical meta-narrative. ex. 2. Thematic Approaches no single-center, there are a variety of themes in Biblical narratives 3. Meta-narrative Approaches tend to focus on overarching story itself. not organized according to theme

New Creation (Rev 21-22): The Temple-City of God

1. The city is a cube like the Holy of Holies (21:16) 2. The tree of life is there (Rev 2:7; 22:2, 14, 19) 3. A river flows from it (22:1) 4. Precious metals - streets are pure gold (Rev 21:18-21) 5. 'I saw no temple' (21:22) (meaning the entire city is filled with God's glory, not just one location in it) 6. The Glory of God gives it its light (21:23) 7. Nothing accursed (22:3) 8. Endzeit resembles Urzeit - "the end resembles the beginning"

Noteworthy features of the main family lineage in Genesis - GENEALOGIES, SEED AND THE COMPOSITIONAL UNITY OF GENESIS

1. The lineage is always traced through male descendants, and all are clearly named. (not always the first-born though) 2. The central family line exists due to the gracious activity of God. (ex. Abraham & Sarah) 3. The Genesis narrative emphasizes the existence of a special relationship between God and individual members of the main family line. 4. The concept of 'seed' implies a resemblance between the 'seed' and the one who has produced it. In the context of Genesis this suggests that sons will resemble their fathers. (ex. Abraham & Isaac pretending wife is sister) 5. The seed of the main family lineage is frequently mentioned in the divine promises with are an important feature of the patriarchal stories. - a. God promises the land of Canaan to the 'seed' of Abraham - b. It is frequently stressed that the 'seed' of Abraham will be very numerous. 3 images: dust of earth, stars of heaven, sand of seashore - c. It is emphasized that through Abraham and his 'seed' all nations on earth will be blessed. 6. There are strong grounds for believing that the main line of descent in Genesis is viewed as a royal lineage.

Principles for historical-cultural interpretation (from Biblical Interpretation 312-324)

1. The original historical-cultural interpretation: We must understand each passage consistently with its historical and cultural background. For any interpretation to qualify as the intended meaning of a text, it must be the most likely meaning given the circumstances of the original writing and reading of the passage. 2. The original impact: moving from factual to emotional. We must determine the impact that the biblical message would have had in its original setting. This principle involves the factor of mindset. Interpreters should seek to know, where possible, how the original recipients would have reacted to what was written (related to the author's desired perlocution: outcome or effect). 3. The correct expression: We must express in our language conclusions from our study in ways that most clearly correspond to those ideas in the biblical culture. - avoid syncretism 4. The priority of the plain sense: Do not allow features of the historical-cultural background to sabotage the main taks of understanding the meaning of the text.

3 Approaches to viewing NT authors' use of the OT

1. The wrong theology from the wrong texts (should not replicate...and why would you want to?) 2. The right theology from the wrong texts (should not replicate) 3. The right theology from the right texts (should replicate) We should look to NT authors as good exegetors of Scripture

Principles of Interpretation - Farewell Speech (from Biblical Interpretation 417-450)

1. determine what makes the occasion of the speech historically pivotal 2. summarize speaker's main concern in brief sentence. what does the aging leader urge his audience to do about it? 3. Decide what a given speech contributes to the themes of the larger context. 4. look for application from the speech's momentous historical setting and its main point

Principles of Interpretation - Heroic Narratives and Prophet Stories (from Biblical Interpretation 417-450)

1. focus on life of main character, whenever individual, family, or nation 2. what values does given hero represent? 3. find larger themes involved (election, conquest, religious apostasy etc.) 4. application of these narratives should focus on analogous situations between biblical character and Christians today.

Principles of Interpretation - Reports (from Biblical Interpretation 417-450)

1. focus on main subject and how it contributes to themes in larger context 2. deduce theological theme from larger context that surrounds them. (may not be super obvious at first) 3. May make their points indirectly, so you have to ask "what is this text trying to say?" 4. when analyzing histories (series of reports strung together) - you music analyze the emphases of individual reports to see what they share in common

Principles of Interpretation - Embedded Genres (from Biblical Interpretation 417-450)

1. usually an embedded genre forms a component of a larger context rather than an independent context itself 2. thus the goal of interpretation is to find what that component contributes to the message of the whole 3. to attain the goal (a) define the main point of the embedded genre (b) define the main idea(s) of its surrounding context (c) analyze the relationship between the point of the embedded genre and the idea(s) of its context. (why does the compiler change genres mid-context, how is the change supposed to affect the reader, and what does it contribute to the message as a whole)

The Sufficiency of Scripture

2 Timothy 3:16-17 - "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." Sufficient vs Exhaustive - They reveal God's will as much as we need to know, but they don't tell us EVERYTHING about God. Book of John says "...enough books could not be written about the life of Christ..." Sufficient for whom? - they are sufficient for ALL (not just teachers and leaders) - ALL ages Westminster Confession of Faith 1.7: "The whole counsel of God concerning all things necessary for his own glory, man's salvation, faith and life, either expressly set down in Scripture, or by good and necessary consequence may be deduced from Scripture..." Not just the things Scripture explicitly states, but things we can deduce from it. Example the word "trinity" doesn't appear in Scripture.

Heroic Narrative (from Biblical Interpretation 417-450)

A series of episodes that focus on the life and exploits of a hero whom people later consider significant enough to remember. Life of Moses is best example in OT. Epic: sub-variety of heroic narrative that tells the heroic exploits of a virtuous hero. Greater length and magnification of hero's exploits to a great scale of importance. Strong nationalistic interest. Cosmic Epic: ex. Gen. 1-11. narrates the formative story of not just a nation, but of the cosmos and its human inhabitants. Supernatural elements abound. Ancestral Epic: ex. Gen 12-36. Abraham and descendants. Patriarchs.

Old Testament Theology (from Johnston 19-48)

A. A centre? B. The Mosaic Heart C. Pre-Mosaic Faith D. Post-Mosaic Developments - 1. Monarchy - 2. Prophecy - 3. Exile and restoration E. Life and Death

Implications of Verbal-Plenary Inspiration

A. Authority If God is King and Lord and God has spoken, then the scriptures are authoritative. B. Infallibility God has inspired His word and it is unable to fail. God's will cannot be thwarted. C. Inerrancy (e.g., Psalm 12:6; 18:30; 19:17) 2 applications of the term inerrancy: 1. Scripture is inerrant in all that it affirms. 2. The Bible is without error in the original autographs. Common objection is that we don't actually have the original autographs. Inerrancy is not a doctrine that we believe because we have all the data to prove it, but we believe it as an outworking of verbal-plenary inspiration. If we affirm that God has spoken through scripture, then we affirm that Scripture is without error. Psalm 12:6 - the words of the Lord are flawless We put ourselves UNDER Scripture, not BESIDE or ABOVE.

How does Scripture point us to Christ?

A. Clear Messianic Trajectory Gen 1-3, Gen 12, Gen 49, Num 24, Deuteronomy 34, 2 Samuel 7, Isaiah 2, 9, 11, 52-53 B. Directly (e.g., Isaiah 11:1-9) A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit. The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him— the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the Lord—and he will delight in the fear of the Lord. He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes, or decide by what he hears with his ears; but with righteousness he will judge the needy, with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth.He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth; with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked. Righteousness will be his belt and faithfulness the sash around his waist. The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat,the calf and the lion and the yearling[a] together; and a little child will lead them. The cow will feed with the bear, their young will lie down together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox. The infant will play near the cobra's den, and the young child will put its hand into the viper's nest. They will neither harm nor destroy on all my holy mountain,for the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea. C. Indirectly (e.g., typology) Romans 5:14 "Yet death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those whose sinning was not like the transgression of Adam, who was a type (τύπος) of the one who was to come."

Stages of OT story (from Johnston 19-48)

A. Primeval era Genesis 1-11 creation up to about 2000 BC (ends right before Abraham) B. Patriarchal period Genesis 12-50 Abraham, Isaac and his son Jacob, Joseph C. The life of Moses Exodus - Deuteronomy D. Possessing the land of Canaan Joshua - Judges E. The early monarchy F. The divided kingdoms G. The Babylonian exile H. The restoration

3 Misconceptions about Biblical Interpretation

A. The infallibility of the earnest reader of the Bible We falsely think, as long as we're sincere, we won't be wrong about Scripture. B. Inability to know the truth God's word Everyone reads Scripture differently, so who can understand it anyway? C. Novelty is the goal of Biblical interpretation Why study the Bible, when everything has already been discovered? We actually want to avoid novelty. We want to be faithful readers of Scripture, in light of helpful guides and teachers of past and present.

What is Hermeneutics?

A. The study of interpretation B. Hermeneutics deals with questions concerning how we arrive at a particular interpretation. C. Art and Science It's both caught and taught. Hermeneutics is more than just learning "rules," it's putting them into practice.

Major Benefits of Studying Hermeneutics

A. We become more confident (not arrogant) in what we know to be true from Scripture. We can read and teach with more confidence. Not growing in pride, but becoming more like Christ. B. We become more humble concerning the "grey" areas of Scripture. Studying hermeneutics doesn't lead you into certainty in every area of Scripture. Sometimes it leads to more gray areas. We have a great appreciation for our diversity in the body of Christ (views on types of baptisms for example) C. We are able to teach Scripture with greater precision.

The Temple-City (City of God 1-63)

Abraham: "Father of a New Humanity" Whereas the primeval era of Genesis 1-11 moves toward the creation of Babel/Babylon as a "Godless" city, with Abraham begins a process that will ultimately lead to the establishment of ancient Jerusalem as the city of God. Abraham is contrasted with people of Babel - they aspire to make name for themselves, God says HE will make Abraham's name great. Divine promise that Abraham's descendants will become great nation. Dwell with God in harmony. Hebrews: Abraham obeyed not knowing where he was going, went to live in land of promise, looking forward to city that has foundations, built by God. ....God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared for them a city. Abraham anticipated a city built by God. Theme of numerous descendants. Abraham constructs altar on Mt. Moriah - location where Solomon will later build the temple in Jerusalem. Jacob and altar at Bethel. Toward the City of God Enslaved by Egyptians, the Israelites are conscripted by Pharaoh to build store cities for his benefit. When they are delivered they sing "You will bring them in and plant them on your own mountain, the place, O Lord, which you have made for your abode, the sanctuary, O Lord, which your hands have established. The Lord will reign forever and ever." Exo 15:17-18 after several centuries Israelites take possession of Promised Land. Under David they capture Jerusalem. David brings ark of covenant. Jerusalem becomes center of God's kingdom on earth. Solomon builds temple. Like portable sanctuary, the temple has features that associate it with the garden of Eden. The temple is decorated with arboreal imagery, including carvings of lilies and pomegranates on the tops of pillars. After Solomon completes the building of the temple, God's presence fills it. Jerusalem: The City of God Jerusalem is important as the location of God's earthly residence, which is reflected in the annual religious pilgrimages undertaken by the Israelites. Songs of Ascent - Psalms 120-134 - songs of those ascending to the temple on Mount Zion. The hope generated by the concept of the temple-city permeated the thinking of Israelites. Good reason to think their hope anticipates an experience that lies beyond this life. Psalm 23: "I shall dwell in the house of the Lord FOREVER." Conclusion The establishment of Jerusalem as the city of God was an important development toward the fulfillment of God's creation plan to establish a city that would fill the whole earth. Yet, it was not the final product...

Poetry (from Biblical Interpretation 451-505)

After narratives, most common literary form in Bible. Most Biblical books contain some poetry. Poetry is not a genre, but a literary style (alt. to prose)

Envisaging a Transformed Jerusalem (City of God 85-114)

Although the Israelites enjoyed the privilege of dwelling with God on His holy mountain, they forfeited this by failing to keep their covenant obligation. God's Condemnation of Jerusalem's Citizens through Isaiah The prophet Isaiah vividly convey's God's condemnation of those living in Jerusalem during the 8th century BC. Isaiah paints a disturbing picture of a morally corrupt city. Isaiah Anticipates the Fall of Jerusalem The decimation of Jerusalem by the Babylonians is highly ironic. Babel/Babylon was founded as the antithesis to the city of God. Isaiah emphasizes that the fall of Jerusalem is unquestioningly due to divine judgment, with God using the Babylonians as agents of punishment. Expressions of hope are scattered throughout the book of Isaiah. Isaiah radiates a confidence that, in spite of the abject failure of 8th century Jerusalem to be the city of God, the Lord will accomplish His plan to construct a temple-city on a holy mountain. Isaiah's Visions of a New Jerusalem Isaiah anticipates restoration after judgment. And NEW JERUSALEM. "new heavens and new earth" "Jerusalem to be a joy, and her people to be a gladness" These passages anticipate events that haven't happened yet. The Servant King in Isaiah Two themes form the backbone of the entire book of Isaiah: "God's chosen dynasty of kings and the glory of the holy city from which it ruled" Isaiah 9:1-7 anticipates the coming of a new and better Davidic king: "For unto us a child is born...on the throne of David and over his kingdom..." Isaiah 11:1-5 "...shoot from the stump of Jesse..." "justice to the poor and oppressed" After fall of Jerusalem, God raises up Gentile (Persian) king (Cyrus) to defeat Babylon and begin process of restoring temple in Jerusalem. Cyrus's involvement merely anticipates a much greater achievement accomplished by another "servant." There is an anonymous servant described in various ways within Isaiah 40-66: 1. He is endowed with God's Spirit. 2. He will bring justice to the nations of the whole earth. 3. He will have authority over kings and princes. 4. He will bring divine salvation to both Israel and the nations. Servant will atone for the iniquity of others by making his life "an offering for guilt" - "pierced for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities" Servant King will lay down His life to atone for the sins of others. By linking the unnamed servant in the second half of Isaiah to the promised further Davidic king of the first half of Isaiah, the entire book reveals that this individual will exercise a crucial role in bringing about the transformation of Jerusalem. The renewing of the corrupt city is tied to the coming of a promised righteous king. This servant king, however, does not merely bring salvation to Israel; importantly, he is also a "light for the nations", mediating God's blessing to the nations in fulfillment of the promises to the patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Ultimately, his actions will result in the "glorification of God and Zion." A Second Exodus Using imagery that echoes the divine redemption of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, Isaiah speaks confidently of a future return from captivity. This goes beyond just simply exiles returning though. Isaiah is describing the real experience of those who will enter the eschatological NEW Jerusalem. Isaiah 57 - "righteous man is taken away from calamity; he enters into peace" - when righteous die they will eventually enter New Jerusalem that will become a metropolis of eternal shalom (peace). Conclusion Isaiah foresees judgment, exile, and restoration for Jerusalem. God will change corrupt city into unique holy city centered on Mount Zion. 2 periods of restoration: one thru Cyrus and one thru an even greater "servant king" For the first post exilic readers of Isaiah, the return from exile under Cyrus would have given them confidence to believe that God would bring to fulfillment the eschatological transformation of Jerusalem. They anticipated what God would do in the last days to establish a New Jerusalem.

Leviticus 21:16-23

And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, 17 "Speak to Aaron, saying, None of your offspring throughout their generations who has a blemish may approach to offer the bread of his God. 18 For no one who has a blemish shall draw near, a man blind or lame, or one who has a mutilated face or a limb too long, 19 or a man who has an injured foot or an injured hand, 20 or a hunchback or a dwarf or a man with a defect in his sight or an itching disease or scabs or crushed testicles. 21 No man of the offspring of Aaron the priest who has a blemish shall come near to offer the LORD'S food offerings; since he has a blemish, he shall not come near to offer the bread of his God. 22 He may eat the bread of his God, both of the most holy and of the holy things, 23 but he shall not go through the veil or approach the altar, because he has a blemish, that he may not profane my sanctuaries, for I am the LORD who sanctifies them."

Criteria for NT Canonicity (p. 179 Biblical Interpretation)

Apostolicity - apostolic connections Orthodoxy - theology of NT has shared beliefs that don't contradict Catholicity - books have proven useful for large number of churches from earliest generations of Christianity

Introduction (City of God 1-63)

At the very heart of God's plan for our world stands an extraordinary city. John's final vision in Revelation involves a magnificent city. This city is laden with symbolic imagery drawn from the rest of Scripture. This vision reveals God's ultimate goal for humanity. This New Jerusalem is a fitting climax to the entire biblical story. New Jerusalem and the Garden of Eden New Jerusalem brings to completion what God intended when He first created the earth. The origins of New Jerusalem are found in the early chapters of Genesis. Similarities b/t New Jerusalem and the Garden of Eden 1. both locations are associated with the "tree of life" 2. only in biblical accounts concerning the garden of Eden and New Jerusalem do God and humans communicate directly with each other, face-to-face. The Eden narrative contains features that link it with later Israelite sanctuaries, especially the tabernacle and the Jerusalem temple. In Genesis 1, God instructs humans to be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth. This points toward the eventual creation of a worldwide community. Ways in which garden of Eden resembles later Israelite sanctuaries: 1. entrances located to east and guarded by cherubim 2. commands to "work" and "keep" similar to words used to describe duties of Levites in sanctuary More tentative connections: 3. temple decorated with arboreal features. lamp stand resembles tree of life 4. gold and onyx 5. the Lord walks in garden as he later does in the tabernacle 6. concept of river flowing out of Eden finds parallel in Ezekiel, where river flows from a future, idealized Jerusalem temple 7. garden of Eden occupies elevated location that recalls how other sanctuaries associate God's presence with an elevated location From Garden to City The garden of Eden narrative anticipates God and humanity dwelling together in harmony. In light of this, the earliest readers of Genesis would easily have expected Eden to become a temple-city. Ancient temples were constructed at the heart of cities. Be fruitful and multiply. Adam and Eve's explosion from the garden of Eden creates a major obstacle for the fulfillment of God's plan that He should dwell on earth with people who love and trust him. Amid the chaos that flows from Adam and Eve's betrayal, He graciously offers hope that someday humans will enjoy His intimate presence in an expanded garden of Eden.

Key terms for textual criticism

Author: the original human author involved in writing the book Autograph: the original book written by the author (we don't have any) Manuscripts: copies of the original autograph Manuscripts come to us in groups or "textual families:" OT: Septuagint (LXX) Dead Sea Scrolls (DSS) Masoretic Text (MT) Samaritan Pentateuch (SamP) Syriac Peshitta NT: Alexandrian Caesarean Western Byzantine

Benefits of author-centered interpretation

Authority and the author - meaning is conveyed from author to reader. Reader is under authority of scripture. We are not creating meaning, but arriving at meaning author intended. Objective meaning - there is objective truth in the Scripture. There are different applications, but 1 objective meaning.

Anticipating New Jerusalem (City of God 163-167)

Becoming a Citizen of New Jerusalem Born of the Spirit, believers are adopted as God's children, becoming members of the kingdom of God. They also enjoy the privilege of becoming citizens of New Jerusalem, although they must await the return of Jesus Christ before this city is established on a new earth. Living in Babylon Jesus Christ calls his followers to be kingdom builders here and now, but they are to do this with the confident assurance that Christ will return to address every injustice as universal judge, vindicating and punishing as appropriate. Only then with the defeat of evil will God establish New Jerusalem on a renewed earth. The Christian's Ultimate Hope "Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken, Zion, City of Our God" by John Newton "Solid joys and lasting treasure None but Zion's children know"

Snowball effect

Bible is like snowball rolling downhill and we go through OT and NT, meaning and depth are being added and accumulating as we go. FILLING UP.

Biblical Theology vs Systematic Theology

Biblical Theology - primarily interested in tracing the development of the overarching narrative of Scripture Systematic Theology - primarily interested in answering "what does the Bible say about a particular topic?" - usually organized according to categories both are helpful

Revelation - Canonical function and contemporary significance (from Johnston 265-272)

Brings the canon of scripture to close with a solemn promise: God obligates himself to complete the salvation that he revealed in Jesus Christ. This promise is intended to bolster confidence and hope in God's people as they contend with the powers of this age.

The Godless City (City of God 1-63)

Cain "is building a city" names it after own son Enoch. Building a name for himself instead of God Babel, the City of Pride (after flood) humans build tower to access heaven to avoid being dispersed throughout earth - this is opposite of God's plan Babel is prototypical Godless city Building of Babel typifies: (a) capacity of people to achieve great things and (b) the arrogance of those who have turned away from God. They aspire to replace God on earth and in heaven. Babel typifies every proud human enterprise that seeks to exalt the creature over the Creator. Babel/Babylon Babel occurs over 200 times in the Hebrew Bible and is almost always translated to "Babylon." Babel should be called Babylon. When we name the city "Babylon" a pattern emerges. Babel is not only the antithesis of the holy city that God desires to build upon the earth, but it is also its great rival and opponent. Babel/Babylon: The Kingdom of Nimrod Babel/Babylon is also associated with aggressive human leadership or kingship. Babel/Babylon is first mentioned in Gen. 10:8-12 in association with the powerful hunter Nimrod. Nimrod is a powerful man / hunter (negative). Through force, Nimrod founded an extensive kingdom that includes Babel/Babylon. Nimrod helps establish tradition of kingdom building through aggression. We see this later with Assyrians and Babylonians destroying kingdoms of Israel and Judah. Instead of ruling as His vice-regents, humans oppose God and establish alternative kingdoms. Conclusion God-given abilities of humans are deliberately focused on creating a society that has no need of God. God intervenes and introduces multiple languages and scattering the people. From Genesis to Revelation, Babel/Babylon features prominently as the symbol of humanity's attempt to govern themselves without reference to and in defiance of God.

Bestowing authority vs. recognizing authority

Canon doesn't bestow authority, it just recognizes God's authority.

Song of Songs (from Johnston 95-139)

Celebration of human love

Revelation as an Epistle (from Biblical Interpretation 541-567)

Combines parts from 3 distinct genres: epistle, prophecy, and apocalyptic Revelation shares features in common with other NT epistles: - Identifies its author, recipients, and location - greetings - conclusion "the text canon mean something that would have been completely incomprehensible to its original audience"

Root error

Common word-study error Error of assuming that simply because 2 different words appear to be formed using the same root, that they must be related in some way.

Perlocution

Component of speech act desired response - what do I want listener to do as a result of my communication

Illocution

Component of speech act the intention of the speech act. what are you trying to communicate

Case Study: Genesis 3:15

Cosmic vs. Naturalist Interpretation Cosmic = talking about devil Natural = just a snake v human (false) Helpful passages related to Genesis 3:15 Revelation 12:9 "And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him." Romans 16:20 "The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you." Isaiah 27:1 In that day the LORD with his hard and great and strong sword will punish Leviathan the fleeing serpent, Leviathan the twisting serpent, and he will slay the dragon that is in the sea. Serpent is seen as agent of chaos throughout scripture. "There remains in this verse a puzzling yet important ambiguity: Who is the 'seed' of the woman? It seems obvious that the purpose of verse 15 has not been to answer that question, but rather to raise it. The remainder of the book is, in fact, the author's answer" (Sailhamer).

Individual Forms in the Epistles (from Biblical Interpretation 541-567)

Creeds and Hymns In several places in the Epistles, short paragraph-length sections of a letter present key summaries of doctrine, usually of Christology, in a fashion that resembles ancient poetry, hymnody, and confessions of faith. The Domestic Code instruction for individuals in a relationship of authority or submission Slogans Paul uses popular slogans, but substantially qualifies them - see examples on page 553 Vice and Virtue Lists lists of qualities or actions that typify morality or immorality from a Christian perspective

Creeds and Councils

Creeds and councils can function in an authoritative way in our lives, but only to the extent that they help to summarize and exegete Scripture. Creeds and councils CAN error, Scripture CANNOT.

Job (from Johnston 95-139)

Don't be quick to judge morality of those who suffer. Book asks "who is wise" - God is wise above all date and authorship - unknown

Hidden meanings

Don't look for hidden or previously unearthed meanings. We're not looking to come up with novel ideas.

Frequency error

Don't make the assumption that just because a word is used in the same way in 99 occurrences, that in the 100th occurrence it must be being used in the same way. Each use is a case by case basis.

The Mount Sinai-Tabernacle Relationship

Exodus 2:11-12 Exodus 15:17 Exodus 24:1-2 Exodus 24:15-16

Retrieving the historical-cultural background (from Biblical Interpretation 312-324)

Exploring the world of the biblical setting involves 2 distinct studies: (1) studying the background of a biblical book and (2) studying the background of specific passages in the book.

Ezra & Nehemiah (from Johnston 49-94)

Four main stages 1. Ezra 1:1-4:5 - 'First return', temple started 2. Ezra 4:24-6:22 Temple completed Ezra 4:6 Local opposition 3. Ezra 7-10 'Second return' with Ezra Ezra 4:7-23 more opposition 4. Neh. 1-12 Nehemiah to Jerusalem Neh. 13 Nehemiah's second term They show how unpromising situations can be turned around through faithful action, but also that apathy and inappropriate relationships often recur. And through the highs and lows, God continues to provide for His people.

Resources for Historical/Culural Analysis (A Starting Point)

General Introductions to the ANE a) John H. Walton, Ancient Near Eastern Thought and the Old Testament. 2 ed. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2018. b) Jonathan S. Greer, John W. Hilber, and John H. Walton, eds. Behind the Scenes of the Old Testament. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2018. Historical/Cultural Commentaries a) John H. Walton, Victor H. Matthews, and Mark W. Chavalas, eds. The IVP Bible Background Commentary: Old Testament. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2000. b) Craig S. Keener, ed. The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2014. c) John H. Walton, ed. Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary: Old Testament. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2009 d) Clinton E. Arnold, ed. Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary: New Testament. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2002.

New Testament Theology (from Johnston 151-184)

Goals of NT theology: 1. to discern the theological themes and and emphases of each biblical author 2. to compare and contrast those perspectives with other books and authors 3. to seek to integrate these theologies into a comprehensive and coherent unified theology B. Salvation history C. Jesus Christ: God's agent of redemption D. Salvation: the goal of redemptive history E. The Holy Spirit: God's power and presence with His people F. The church: the Spirit-filled community of salvation history G. The goal: consummation of redemptive history

Con-cursive meaning

God didn't "overtake" the minds of the writers. They were involved in the writing. The had intentions in their writing, but their intentions aligned with God's. part of Organic inspiration

Divine Lordship

God is Lord. He is King of all the earth. Triangle illustration A. Authority (top of pyramid) He has authority to speak in any way that He sees fit. And we are to obey. B. Control (lower left of pyramid) He is sovereign over the beginning and the end. C. Presence (lower right of pyramid) He desires to be present with His people. God desires to be known. Because God has the authority to speak, He has the control to make it happen, and He has the desire to be present with us we have confidence in Scripture.

The Royal City (City of God 65-83)

God reigns from Jerusalem as King of kings, as Mount Zion becomes the location of His earthly temple or palace, modeled on His heavenly abode. God's sovereignty is closely associated with His mountain sanctuary. God Reigns in Zion Psalm 99 - describes God reigning from Mount Zion lots of references in Psalms to God reigning on Mount Zion The establishment of Jerusalem as the city of God is like to the David dynasty (earthly king), anticipating how Jesus Christ, as Messiah, will establish the ultimate city of God God's Vice-Regent Rules from Jerusalem God's choice of David as ruler over Israel is intimately bound to His choice of Mount Zion. Jacob's blessing to Judah (Gen. 49:8-12) implies kingship will come from Judah. Zion was final Canaanite holdout in the promised land. With its fall, conquest of Canaan begun by Joshua was completed. Having chosen David to act on His behalf, Yahweh took Zion and complete the conquest. In the same stroke, David and Zion were bound inextricably together. In God's plan, the establishment of the ultimate holy city will involve the David dynasty. The Building of Two "Houses" Hebrew term bayit, which has a semantic range that extends the meaning of "house" to cover both a physical building and a household. This latter understanding of bayit also emphasizes the concept of dynasty. David will not building a "house" (a physical building) for God, but God will build a "house" (a dynasty) for David. Wisdom, Knowledge, and Understanding - 3 terms used in connection with creation of world, construction of tabernacle/temple, and making of an Israelite home. 2 palaces stand adjacent to each other in Jerusalem: the Lord's palace (the temple) and the Davidic palace. Hostility towards God's Royal City Given humanity's hostility toward God, Jerusalem as the city of His presence becomes an object of loathing for those who set themselves against God. Reflected throughout Psalms - particularly Psalm 1 & 2 Conclusion Jerusalem is established as God's royal city in OT. This is partial fulfillment of God's plan to live on the earth in harmony with humans. Jerusalem is location from which God's chosen king reigns. At center of God's earthly kingdom, Mount Zion is set apart as unique. Human resistance to the reign of God on earth also means that Jerusalem becomes the main target of opposition.

Canon

Greek word that means "rule" or "measuring stick" The standard of what is regarded as Scripture

Revelation - Symbolism (from Johnston 265-272)

Imagery is intentionally evocative and suggestive does NOT always correspond with literal events seek to influence present behavior by a profound vision of God, his judgment, the vindication of the righteous and the renewal of creation.

Masoretic Text (MT)

Important text family (esp. for OT) a) 6th-10th Centuries AD b) The "starting point" for reading the Hebrew Bible c) Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia

Dead Sea Scrolls (DSS)

Important text family (esp. for OT) a) Discovered 1946-1956 b) Over 900 Manuscripts c) Essenes (150 B.C.- A.D. 68) d) Roughly 40% of the texts found are manuscripts of Canonical OT books e) Relevance for transmission of the Hebrew Bible

Septuagint (LXX)

Important text family (esp. for OT) a) Greek translation of the OT b) 250-150 B.C. c) Varying translation styles d) NT often references the LXX (e.g., Acts 7:14; cf. Ex 1:5)

Jesus Christ: God's agent of redemption - NT Theology (from Johnston 151-184)

Jesus the Messiah Son of Man Son of God Second Adam High priest and once-for-all sacrifice for sins God in human form

Some impartial evidence of criteria in writings of Josephus

Josephus, Contra Apion 1.7-8 §§37-42; Muratorian Canon [a latin Fragment): Example: "It therefore naturally, or rather necessarily, follows (seeing that with us it is not open to everybody to write the records, and that there is no discrepancy in what is written; seeing that on the contrary, the prophets alone have this privilege, obtaining their knowledge of the most remote and ancient history through the inspiration which they owed to God, and committing to writing a clear account of the events of their own time just as they occurred)—it follows, I say, that we do not posses myriads of inconsistent books, conflicting with each other. Our books, those which are justly accredited, are but two and twenty, and contain the record of all time...."We have given practical proof of our reverence of our own Scriptures. For, although such long ages have now passed, no one has ventured either to add, or to remove, or to alter a syllable; and it is an instinct with every Jew, from the day of his birth, to regard them as the decrees of God, to abide by them, and, if need be, cheerfully to die for them" (Josephus, Contra Apion 1.7-8 §§37-42)."

Joel (from Johnston 95-139)

Locust imagery asserts that God is Lord of nature as well as history, and can act in either realm for judgment and blessing. Day of the Lord - fulfilled at Pentecost

Examples of typological patterns

Matthew 2:15 (cf. Hosea 11:1) where he stayed until the death of Herod. And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: "Out of Egypt I called my son." Hosea 11:1 "When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son. 1. note the use of "fulfill" - meaning "filled up" 2. "...Matthew sees a typological correspondence between Israel's exodus experience and Jesus' sojourn in Egypt. Though not a direct messianic passage, this still constitutes fulfillment because Jesus as Messiah is corporately identified with Israel throughout its history" Not a direct 1-to-1 fulfillment, but a filling up of meaning John 19:36 (cf. Exodus 12:46; Numbers 9:12) These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled: "Not one of his bones will be broken," OT talks about not breaking the bones of passover lamb. These are not prophetic predictions. John is making a greater typological parallel between Christ and the passover lamb. Offices (e.g., Acts 3:22; 7:37; cf. Deuteronomy 18:15; 34:10) Prophet, Priest, King - people fail in these offices thru OT Jesus. Deut. expects that a better prophet will come. Acts 3:22 22 For Moses said, 'The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything he tells you. Acts 3:37 37 "This is the Moses who told the Israelites, 'God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your own people.'

Summary - GENEALOGIES, SEED AND THE COMPOSITIONAL UNITY OF GENESIS

Most studies on Genesis tend to focus on the disparate nature of the material which has been used in its composition It is argued here that the entire book has been carefully composed to focus on a unique family line The members of this line of 'seed' enjoyed a special relationship with God which resulted in the establishment of two eternal covenants, the first with Noah and the second with Abraham At the heart of this latter covenant was the promise that God's blessing would be mediated to all the nations of the earth through the 'seed' of Abraham While the book of Genesis draws attention to the initial stages of the fulfilment of this promise, its ultimate fulfilment is linked to a royal dynasty associated with the descendants of Judah.

The NT as literature - NT Interpretation (from Johnston 151-184)

NT consists of 3 main types of literature, or genres: Gospels and Acts are narrative book of Revelation is apocalyptic and the rest are letters Subtypes include: genealogies, parables, miracles, sermons, proverbs, vice-lists, hymns and confessions.

The messianic Bible

NT writers are identifying Jesus as the messiah: Luke 24:25-27 "And he said to them, "O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?" 27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself." AND The OT is objectively Messianic. OT points to Christ. The question is how does it do this?

Seeking the City That Is to Come (City of God 141-162)

NT writers portray Jesus Christ as both son of God and son of David. Christ's death, resurrection, and ascension mark a new era, but a further period of time will pass before God completely destroys evil and constructs His holy city, New Jerusalem, on a renewed earth. Jesus's followers enjoy the privilege of being citizens of a heavenly city that will eventually become a worldwide cosmopolitan city upon a renewed earth. With the re-creation of heaven and earth, God and His redeemed people will live together in an extraordinary metropolis. The Church as God's Spiritual Temple God will replace the Jerusalem temple with a new spiritual temple, the church. This transition means that the city of Jerusalem is no longer the sole location of God's presence on earth. In the OT God lived among His people; in the NT He lives within them. 1 Corinthians: "...you are God's temple and God's Spirit dwells in you..." Since the church or kingdom of God/heaven is not defined by geographical location, the concept of a physical, holy temple-city becomes a future hope rather than a present reality. Jesus and Jerusalem A negative portrayal of Jerusalem, especially in Matthew's Gospel, anticipates the destruction of the Jerusalem temple by the Romans in AD 70. Without a temple inhabited by the Lord, Jerusalem is no different from any other city. Matthew reflects a movement away from Jerusalem as the city of God in a number of ways: - Jesus is more strongly associated with Galilee than with Jerusalem. He begins and ends his ministry in Galilee, in fulfillment of Isaiah 9:1-2. - Great commission happens in Galilee - Jerusalem is portrayed as center of power for those who oppose Jesus. - Jesus predicts destruction of temple in Jerusalem. In Gospels the kingdom of God/heaven is not defined by geographical borders. The divine construction of New Jerusalem on a re-created earth will be fulfilled only when Christ returns. Citizens of a Heavenly City Jesus's followers enjoy the privilege of being citizens of a heavenly city that will eventually become a worldwide cosmopolitan city upon a renewed earth. With the re-creation of heaven and earth, God and His redeemed people will live together in an extraordinary metropolis. Concept of divinely constructed city figures prominently within Hebrews 11 in a passage that recalls the faith of the patriarchs of Genesis. Abraham looked forward to a God-created metropolis. Revelation 21-22 describes a vision of New Jerusalem - Holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. - enormous size and splendor - constructed largely of god - parts of John's visions are symbolic, not literal - city is perfect cube (just like Most Holy Place in OT temple) - the whole city is a sanctuary - citizens have priestly status - tree of life is there - a utopia, a paradise Contrasted with Babylon: a city that already exists. We are currently living as exiles in "Babylon" awaiting Christ's return and the New Jerusalem. The Hope of Bodily Resurrection From his letters, Paul conveys 3 important ideas about the resurrection of Jesus's followers, which have implications for understanding the concept of New Jerusalem. 1. those who trust in Jesus Christ for salvation experience in this life a spiritual resurrection 2. there will be a future bodily or physical resurrection for those who physically die in Christ 3. there is an association between the bodily resurrection of believers with a future return of Jesus Christ Paul sees himself as living in the new age, but he recognizes that this new age will be fully consummated only with the return of Jesus Christ. To describe this situation, some scholars speak of "realized eschatology" and "future eschatology," two categories that are sometimes labeled "already" and "not yet." Christ-believers are already united with Jesus, sealed with the Spirit, forgiven of their sings and more than conquerors. On the other hand, salvation is not yet complete because sin and death are still active, though wounded, adversaries. Until the parousia (2nd coming) they remain under constant threats. But when Christ returns, the dead are raised, the living are transformed and sin along with death is destroyed. When Paul refers to 2nd coming of Jesus, he uses the Greek term parousia. Sometimes used in NT to refer to ordinary people "coming" to visit someone. Also used in Gospels to refer to the "coming of the Son of Man" eis apantesin - "to meet" - to meet a dignitary Those who are resurrected shall then be joined by those who are alive, and together they shall all meet Jesus Christ as He returns to earth. Conclusion The early church saw in the death, resurrection, and ascension of the beginning of a new era in God's activity in the world. 1. the church becomes the new temple of God, making obsolete the Jerusalem temple. 2. the negative portrayal of Jerusalem in the Gospels implies that it can no longer be considered to be God's "holy city" 3. the early church anticipated the future creation of a new city of God that would replace the wicked "Babylon" of the present. The followers of Jesus were to consider themselves citizens of this "heavenly city." 4. the bodily resurrection of Jesus's followers at His return was a necessary development in order for them to live within New Jerusalem.

OT Narrative: Illustrative vs Didactic

OT narrative is largely illustrative in how it teaches theology as opposed to didactic. Think of didactic like a professor teaching a classroom, OT doesn't work like that, it's more narrative in the way it teaches. Avoid "monkey see monkey do" approach to OT. Ex. reading about Abraham sacrificing son, doesn't mean we should do the same. ex. Judges - book doesn't literally say "this is bad wrong stuff that's happening" Judg 17:6 In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes. Judg 18:1 In those days there was no king in Israel. And in those days the tribe of the people of Dan was seeking for itself an inheritance to dwell in, for until then no inheritance among the tribes of Israel had fallen to them. Judg 19:1 In those days, when there was no king in Israel, a certain Levite was sojourning in the remote parts of the hill country of Ephraim, who took to himself a concubine from Bethlehem in Judah. Judg 21:25 In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes.

The Perspicuity of Scripture

Perspicuity = clarity The Scriptures are clear. Some passages are difficult, but overarching emphasis is that scriptures are clear. 2 Timothy 3:16 "...profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness" - only possible if Scriptures are CLEAR Westminster Confession of Faith 1.7: "All things in Scripture are not alike plain in themselves, nor alike clear unto all; yet those things which are necessary to be known, believed, and observed for salvation, are so clearly propounded, and opened in some place of Scripture or other, that not only the learned, but the unlearned, in a due use of the ordinary means, may attain unto a sufficient understanding of them."

Prophecy (from Biblical Interpretation 451-505)

Prophecy often produced "foretelling" (predictions about the future), but it's main staple was "forthtelling" (announcements of imminent divine judgment in the present or near future) Basic Types of Prophecy Prophecy of Disaster Prophecy of Salvation - counterpart to disaster Woe Speech - opens with "woe to you..." - kind of like disaster though Prophetic Dirge - addresses the nation as if she were a corpse ready for burial Prophetic Hymn - hymns that appear in prophetic books Prophetic Liturgy - 2 or more speakers responding to each other Prophetic Disputation - speaker tries to persuade audience to accept the validity of some truth. Prophecies against Foreign Nations - can be God promising defeat of enemies Prophetic Vision Report - things a prophet "saw" Prophetic Narratives (2 types) 1. vocation reports: narrate the personal experience by which God called and commissioned someone as a prophet. Confrontation with God, commissioning, objection by prophet, God's reassurance, and a sign. 2. divine instruction about symbolic actions that the prophet is to perform. Command to perform action, report of performance, interpretation through follow-up prophecy.

Types of Word Meanings (p. 47 Biblical Interpretation)

Referential - what a word "refers to" eg "Tree" refers to the large plant outside my office Denotative - precise or direct meaning of the word eg "Tree" denotes a woody perennial plant, at least several feet high with an erect main stem and side branches Connotative - Special suggestive sense that grows out of its denotative meaning in some way eg Jesus died on a "tree" (1 Pet. 2:24), meaning, the cross Contextual - specific sense suggested by a word's use in a specific context that limits it to one of the above eg In the sentence, "I love that apple tree," the sense required by the context is the denotative meaning.

Star Wars example (meta narrative)

Rewatching Empire Strikes Back (after seeing Return of Jedi) knowing that Luke and Leia are twins. We have a different view of it. But did the meaning change?

Typology

Romans 5:14 "Yet death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those whose sinning was not like the transgression of Adam, who was a type (τύπος) of the one who was to come." NT affirms typology and typological patterns typological patterns occur in more places than just when the word type is used. Criteria for determining a type: "The study of analogical correspondences among revealed truths about persons, events, institutions and other things within the historical framework of God's special revelation, which, from a retrospective you, are of a prophetic nature and are escalated in their meeting" (Beale)

Principles of Interpretation - Psalms (from Biblical Interpretation 451-505)

SEE ALSO CHART ON PAGE 460 1. Consider genre and historical context (when available) 2. If context is N/A, use Psalms around it as context (chart) 3. Compare to Psalms of same genre, but also Psalms of diff. genre that share themes. Don't presume Psalms of same genre have same author 4. Contemporary use should coincide with poem's original purpose. Wedding songs for weddings. Protests for times of hardship etc. 5. In public contexts, have Psalms that feature several speakers be read with multiple speakers. 6. Individual protest songs have individual application. Royal psalms apply better to Christian leaders. 7. Interpret corporately (in Christian community) psalms spoken by community 8. "by David" probably means "in David's Honor," doesn't mean he authored every psalm that says that 9. "enemies" figure prominently in Psalms - their modern equivalents might be opponents of the gospel, inner hurts or burdens that weigh us down. 10. Christ is new David. We can apply royal psalms typologically to the kingly role of Jesus as Lord.

Luke (and Acts) (from Johnston 185-205)

Some highlights: 1. Luke brings out more fully the role of Jesus as a prophet 2. Luke lays more stress on the role of the Holy Spirit as the empowered of Jesus 3. more clearly shows how Jesus brought benefits of salvation to marginalized people, including women and non-Jews 4. highlights concern of Jesus for the materially poor and the duty of His followers to be free from love of possessions and to give generously to those in need

Three-fold division OT (seen in NT)

Tanak: Law, Prophets, Writings points to idea that there was an accepted canon of the OT in the time when the NT was written Three-fold division of the OT (cf. Matthew 23:24-35; Like 11:50-51 (i.e., Genesis to Chronicles) Luke 24:44 (Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms).

What is the "telos" of Biblical Interpretation?

Telos - the end or the goal to which we are striving in Biblical Interpretation. What is it that we are after? 2 options: Reader-centered interpretation Author-centered interpretation

The significance of the historical- cultural background (from Biblical Interpretation 312-324)

The Issue of Perspective - perspective of original authors and readers - put ourselves in their shoes The Issue of Mindset - mental attitude or inclination The Matter of Contextualization - expressing the message accurately for today's world

Prophets (from Johnston 95-139)

The activities of the 'writing prophets' cluster around four periods: The fall of Samaria (Jonah, Amos, Hosea, Micah, Isaiah 1-39) the fall of Jerusalem (Zephaniah, Habakkuk, Nahum, Jeremiah, Ezekiel) the return from exile (Isaiah 40-66, Haggai, Zechariah) and the ministry of Ezra & Nehemiah (Obadiah, Joel, Malachi) Less than 5% of OT prophecy describes the new covenant age, less than 2% is 'messianic' and less than 1% concerns the end of the world. Most OT prophecy is "forth-telling," declaring to hearers perspective on them and their situation, usually in terms of exposing their sinful state. Most "foretelling" elements warn of IMMINENT judgment. prophets = "covenant enforcers" Interpreting the prophets for today 1. separate out individual oracles in a passage 2. analyze oracle as it is part of a cluster 3. significance of oracle in historical context 4. how can message in original context apply to our context. sometimes the message will point to some truth about the nature of God, or principle upon which God acts in the world, which we can then relate to our lives today. OT prophets continue to be the living and active word of God.

Goal of textual criticism (will be on quiz)

The end goal or Telos of textual criticism, what's ultimately trying to do is arrive to the most likely reading of any given original autograph.

Timing of Canonization

There is no definitive point in time when Scripture was Canonized. "When did a book become part of the canon? The ultimate answer is when the book was completed by a spirit-inspired author or authors (2 Timothy 3:16-17); 2 Peter 1:21). No council or committee made a book part of the canon. Rather, through the centuries the people of God—filled and guided by the Holy Spirit— have recognize those writings which exhibit the power and presence of the Spirit (1 John 2:20, 27)" (Strauss, Mark. "Introducing the Bible." In The IVP Introduction to the Bible, ed. Philip S. Johnston, 1-17. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2006, p. 9)

Judges 18:30 example (related to translation discussion)

There the Danites set up for themselves the idol, and Jonathan son of Gershom,the son of Moses, and his sons were priests for the tribe of Dan until the time of the captivity of the land. Scribes made a note on name of Moses, because they didn't think it could be Moses's grandson do this awful stuff. but they didn't just change it. Reverence of text - they didn't think it could actually be Moses, but they don't actually change it, they just note it Acknowledgment that when we copy text, mistakes do occur - we have to make translational decisions based on text-critical issues

Historical Books (from Johnston 49-94)

They recount the history of Israel from entry into the promised land under Joshua, through decline under the judges, prosperity in the early monarchy, mixed fortunes in the divided monarchy and eventual exile of both kingdoms, and on to the various returns of some Jews to Judah and their survival in the Persian empire. Cover around 1000 years in time Joshua Judges Ruth 1 & 2 Samuel 1 & 2 Kings 1 & 2 Chronicles Ezra Nehemiah Esther

John (from Johnston 185-205)

Things that receive greater emphasis in John: 1. Jesus speaks more about his personal relationship to God as his Son and this is challenged by his audience 2. Jesus' significance is explained in terms of physical images like bread, vine, gate of a sheepfold, shepherd 3. emphasized the need for faith in the dual sense of believing what Jesus says and committing oneself to Him 4. dualism of light and dark, righteousness and sin, life and death 5. fuller teaching on the role of the Holy Spirit as the Counsellor and Helper 6. less emphasis on the final return of Jesus (though it is not absent) and more on his spiritual relationship with his followers here and now.

Examining the historical-cultural factors of a specific- passage (from Biblical Interpretation 312-324)

Things to seek and understand: worldview: values, mindset, or outlook of the writer/editor, recipients, other people mentioned in the text, or in society at large societal structures: marriage and family patterns, roles of men and women, or racial issues physical features: climate and weather, structures, implements, or ease and means of transportation economic structures: means of making a living, issues of wealth and poverty, slavery, or economic mobility political climate: structures, or loyalties, including actual personnel behavioral patterns, dress, or customs religious practices, power centers, convictions, rituals, or affiliations

Ancient Near East

Various cultures that surrounded land of Canaan or Israel when scriptures were written

Revelation as Apocalyptic (from Biblical Interpretation 541-567)

What apocalyptic does: - promises God's intervention into His people's dire circumstances, assuring them of his ultimate victory over their enemies - warns that in the meantime, things may go from bad to worse - portrays its message in other-world terms - assures, encourages, and warns God's people in the midst of their trials 8 Key Differences between revelation and typical apocalypses - see page 563 Interpreting apocalyptic images in Revelation: - be alert for the OT background to fill in the significance of the allusions - remember that a text cannot mean what it could not have meant to its original readers (though its subsequent application will change over time - be alert to its major theological themes: Christ, the church (past, present, future), and the consummation of the age-long conflict between God and Satan

Verbal-Plenary Inspiration

What does it mean that God has inspired His word? Verbal - God has inspired His Scripture down to the very words, not just concepts. Plenary - ALL parts of Scripture are inspired by God. Scriptures that support this: John 14:26 - "Holy Spirit...teach you all things" 2 Peter 1:20-21 - "...no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation..." 2 Peter 3:16 - "Paul wrote according to the wisdom given him...some things are hard to understand..." Peter is affirming that Paul's letters are scripture. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 - "...all Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable..." Matthew 5:18 - "...not a dot will pass from the Law until all is accomplished..."

The Nature of Genre (from Biblical Interpretation 417-450)

When the Bible employs a literary method, it asks to be approached as literature and not as something else. the Bible student who knows the formation, function, and background of each literary type (genre) is in the best position to interpret correctly and to avoid serious misunderstandings.

Reading the Gospels & Using the Gospels Today (from Johnston 185-205)

a Gospel is more of a creed than a biography; it is a proclamation of faith "I believe that Jesus is the Son of God it is important that we learn to recognize the basic principles of living under the rule of God taught by Jesus in ways appropriate to his first-century context, and then learn to apply these basic principles to ourselves in our different situations.

Reports (from Biblical Interpretation 417-450)

a brief self-contained narration, usually in third-person style, about a single event or situation in the past. narrates the facts of what happened in a straightforward style without literary embellishment. types: anecdote - details event or experience in life of a person memoir - report written in 1st person about incidents in the life of an individual battle report - recounts military clash between opposing forces and its outcome construction report - important buildings in detail dream report - experience of a dream epiphany report - God or angel appears and conveys message historical stories - reports written with more literary elaboration history - complies series of reports and focuses on a historical era

Comedy (from Biblical Interpretation 417-450)

a narrative whose play has a happy ending, in some cases through a dramatic reversal. ex. Joseph & Esther

Numbers (from Johnston 49-94)

a selective record of incidents that cover a period of 40 years. For almost all this time the Israelites are condemned by God to wander in the wilderness rather than enter the promised land. 3 sections Ch. 1-10 narrate the final preparations of Israelites prior to leaving Mt. Sinai Ch. 11-25 records various events over the next 40 years. theme: failure of people to trust and obey God. Ex. spying on promised land. In ch. 13-14 God announces all will die (except Joshua and Caleb) Ch. 26-36 concentrate on positive developments in the 40th year that prepare the way for a new generation to enter the promised land

Paul D. Wegner's four criteria for the OT (based on Josephus, Contra Apion 1.7-8 §§37-42):

a) It does not contain contradictions. b) It was written by a prophet or someone recognized as having divine authority c) It originated through inspiration from God d) It was accepted by the Jews as authoritative

3 uses of law in modern Christian life

a) Mirror - reflects our sinfulness and our need for Christ b) Civil Use - restrain sin within society at large c) A Guide - Christians ought to look to the law to understand how we are to live lives that are pleasing to God. (Luther rejected this use. Professor doesn't agree with Luther. Reformed theology accepts this use.)

Paul D. Wegner's four criteria for the NT (based on the Muratorian Canon)

a) Was the book written by an apostle or at least someone of recognized authority? b) Did it agree with the canon of truth? c) Did it enjoy universal acceptance? d) Does it have a self-authenticating divine nature?

Semantic Range of a term

all possible meanings of a word words can have large semantic ranges words provide semantic range, but they cannot restrict semantic range alone (e.x. "bat" - you don't know if it's animal bat or baseball bat) context restricts semantic range, forming meaning

Thoughts on translation

all translation involves interpretation there is no single perfect Bible translation compare translations when you're studying exercise humility!

Inclusio

an inclusio is where you have the same phrase that is repeated in OT narrative to both begin and end a literary unit. ex. Judges 17:6 In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes AND Judges 21:25 In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes

How to identify typology

analogical correspondence - Romans 5 (Adam and Christ) historicity a pointed-forwardness (e.g. foreshadowing) - example of temple (hebrews makes clear that tabernacle points forward to Christ - sacrifice of blood retrospection - looking back after Christ. Isaiah makes more sense knowing what happens with Christ.

Historical Books Authorship and Date (from Johnston 49-94)

anonymous

Genesis (from Johnston 49-94)

book about beginnings traces family line - Adam to Jacob & his 12 sons new sections introduced by heading or title translated "these are the generations of" or "this is the account of" Titles introduce three distinctive types of material: 1. narrative sections that concentrate upon an individual and his immediate family: Adam, Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Joseph 2. segmented genealogies that outline a family tree for several generations, giving basic information about characters of secondary importance 3. linear genealogies that cover 10 generations but only name one ancestor in each one key idea permeating book: disruption of the divine-human relationship creation account is not "how" God did it, but "why" God did it.

Deuteronomy (from Johnston 49-94)

consists largely of 2 speeches delivered by Moses shortly before his death at heart of Deut. is challenge to next generation of Israelites to embrace the covenant obligations given 40 years earlier at Mt. Sinai Renewing of covenant blessings and curses pronounced resembles ANE treaty underlines how true love for God expresses itself in an unswerving allegiance to Him that leads to a lifestyle marked by integrity and righteousness

Leviticus (from Johnston 49-94)

continues Israelites stay at Mt. Sinai divine instructions and construction of tabernacle processes for priests instructions for sacrifices Theme: the holy nature of God

Apocalyptic Prophecy (from Biblical Interpretation 451-505)

definition Prophecy vs Apocalyptic prophesy - see chart on page 491 Principles of interpretation - OT apocalyptic

Contexts of Biblical Interpretation

doing word studies literary context historical context biblical-theological context concentric circles - words > sentences > paragraphs

Theo. Issues in NT: The Kingdom of God (from Biblical Interpretation 510-541)

inaugurated eschatology: Kingdom of God arrived in part at Christ's first coming, but awaits its full consummation at His return kingdom does NOT equal the church the kingdom sums up God's plan to create a new human life by making possible a new kind of community among people, families, and groups. personal relationship with Jesus. The present nature of the kingdom of God / heaven: - already, but not yet - inaugurated, but not consummated - spiritual, not political some victory now, but ultimate victory promised in the future

4 Criteria for testing the potential validity of an interpretation (p. 287 Biblical Interpretation)

it expresses or conforms to orthodox Christian theology it corresponds to typical paradigms of God's truth or activity as clearly revealed in historically interpreted sections of the Bible it works in the crucible of Christian experience - producing godliness and other valid Christian qualities, and advancing God's kingdom it finds confirmation along the full spectrum (racial, sexual, socio-economical, etc.) of Christians within an orthodox faith-community.

Historical Dates (from Johnston 49-94)

late 15th C - Israelites enter Canaan, taking 1 kgs 6:1 literally late 13th C - Israelites enter Canaan, taking 1 kgs 6:1 figuratively 10th C - David and solomon 931, Solomon's, and division of kingdom into Israel and Judah 9th C - Elijah and Elisha 8th C - 722, assyrians conquer Samaria, and exile many Israelites 6th C - 587, Babylonians conquer Jerusalem, and exile many Judeans 539, Persians conquer Babylon, and allow Jews to return

Psalms (from Johnston 95-139)

lyric poetry - 4 main categories Hymn Lament Thanksgiving Confidence

Embedded Genres: Lists (from Biblical Interpretation 417-450)

most common is genealogy or list of ancestors but other types include: booty, votive offerings, cities and towns, mercenaries, officials, itinerary

Metanarrative

overarching interpretation, or grand story of Scripture

The NT as theology - NT Interpretation (from Johnston 151-184)

p. 183

Embedded Genres: Popular Proverbs and Blessings (from Biblical Interpretation 417-450)

popular proverb: pithy well-known saying that comments on everyday people and events ex. "that's the way the ball bounces" blessings: "blessed is he..." or "cursed is he..."

Ruth (from Johnston 49-94)

set in same period as Judges simple story of ordinary family struck by tragedy, yet experiencing love and acceptance in unexpected ways. New hope through marriage and a son, who became King David's grandfather. next-of-kin redeemer or go'el

Embedded Genres: Songs (from Biblical Interpretation 417-450)

singing played a significant role in Israel's daily life. OT narratives have several different kinds of songs: work songs, victory songs, thanksgiving songs, dirges, laments

STEP Bible

stepbible.org Bible Study software VII.Case Study: ָגּדוֹל ("great") in Jonah 1:2 A. B. Determine the semantic range of the termWith the remaining options available, determine the most likely translational option. 1. Jonah 1:2 "Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and call out against it, for their evil has come up before me." 2. Jonah 3:2 "Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and call out against it the message that I tell you." 3 So Jonah arose and went to Nineveh, according to the word of the LORD. Now Nineveh was an exceedingly great city, three days' journey in breadth. 3. Jonah 4:11 And should not I pity Nineveh, that great city, in which there are more than 120,000 persons who do not know their right hand from their left, and also much cattle?"

(Biblical Interpretation 373-395)

stitch couplet or distich triplet or tristich What makes Parallelism work? Types of Parallelism: A=B - interchangeable, echoes OR contrasts A>B - A states main idea, B qualifies further A<B - A prefaces main idea, B states main idea to complement or complete A staircase parallelism - succeeding lines develop in steps - see John 1:4-6 chiasm or chiasmus - word order of parallel line is the reverse of its predecessor (a b / b' a') - book of Song of Solomon is an extended chiasm (see page 393) merismus - writer mentions extremes of some category in order to portray it as a totality - that is, those opposites and everything in between them. "from the least to the greatest" "from the mountain peaks to the earth's depths" inclusio - framing a poem or narrative by repeating words or phrases from its opening lines at its conclusion. Psalm 8 opens and closes with "LORD, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth!"

ACTS (from Biblical Interpretation 510-541)

theological history "The Acts of the Holy Spirt" - a theological retelling of how the Holy Spirit moved among Jesus' followers to establish and spread the church. Interpretation involves: archaeology, historical criticism, theology analysis, and literary criticism Thinking Vertically to interpret a particular episode in Acts, we should first correlate it to its place in Luke's unfolding outline and developing themes. The Significance of Pentecost Acts as Narrative Descriptive - author describes what happened Prescriptive - author intends as normative truth for his readers there is some of both in Acts most normative in Acts: "expansion of Gospel from Jewish to Gentile territory"

Epistles -Sub-Genres of Greco-Roman Letters (chart on 546) (from Biblical Interpretation 541-567)

Exhortational letter - encouraging corrections (1 Thessalonians) diatribe - conversational method of instruction in which the writer considers and answers hypothetical objections from opponents (romans) letter of introduction or recommendation - designed to introduce the bearer of the letter to its recipients before requesting a certain favor. (Philemon) apologetic letter of self-commendation - rhetorical self defense (2 Corinthians 1-7) family letter - an address and greeting, a prayer, a reassurance about the sender, a request for reassurance about recipients, information about the movement of intermediaries, an exchange of greetings with third parties and a closing with for health - phillipians 3 major types of rhetoric in epistles 1. Judicial 2. Deliberative 3. Epideictic see page 547 exodium narratio propositio probatio rufutatio peroratio

Exegesis vs. Eisogesis

drawing out vs putting in we want to draw out, not put in

Context of the Entire Bible (from Biblical Interpretation 308-312)

3 groupings of biblical books should be consulted in interpreting a passage according to the context of the entire Bible. In order of significance: 1. Study parallels in other books attributed to the same author. 2. Study parallels in books by different writers in the same testament. 3. Study parallels in passages from the other testament. Avoid over NT-izing the OT though. God's message in the OT for the church today must grow out of the intending meaning of the text itself. Its significance for our lives my differ greatly from its significance to its original readers, but not its essential meaning.

Exodus (from Johnston 49-94)

3 main sections on the basis of geographical locations ch. 1-15 - dramatic deliverance of Israelites from slavery in Egypt ch. 15:22-18:27 - covers the 70 days immediately following the exodus from Egypt. Israelites traveling through wilderness toward Mt. Sinai. Sever incidents highlight the ephemeral nature of their trust in God ch. 19-40 - what happens when the Israelites come to Mt. Sinai - 10 Commandments, golden calf etc. overall theme of "knowing God"

Etymological error

Common word-study error Etymology = history of the development of the word. what is the story of how the word came to have the meaning that it does. Don't make the mistake that every time a word is being used, they entire history of the word is in the mind of the author using the word. Usage and meanings evolve over time. Expressions/slang etc.

New Testament Background (from Johnston 151-184)

A. A time prepared B. Early Christians and Judaism C. Other Jewish groups - most prominent: Pharisees, Sadducees and Essenes D. Christian Jews and Gentiles E. Jewish literature F. The New Testament

Old Testament Interpretation (from Johnston 19-48)

A. Bridging the gap - 1. Read broadly - 2. Read inquisitively - 3. Read guide books B. Understanding genre C. The Old Testament and the law D. The Old Testament and Christ E. Conclusion

Locution

Component of speech act means (language, grammar, genre etc.) - what way/means words that you use to communicate

OT Narrative Genres (from Biblical Interpretation 417-450)

Biblical narratives are more than history, not less than history. Proper literary competence requires readers to appreciate their historical content and literary form. Reports: Anecdote Battle Reports Construction Reports Dream Reports Epiphany Reports Dream Epiphany Reports Historical Stories A History Memoir Heroic Narrative: Epic Cosmic Ancestral Prophet Story Comedy Farewell Speech

Lamentations (from Johnston 95-139)

Corporate lament - written in context of Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem and exile of Israelites theological purpose of book is to acknowledge God's judgement against Jerusalem and to move him to interceded for and restore His people.

Historical Trustworthiness (from Biblical Interpretation 510-541)

Different standards for quotations in the ancient world selective inclusion thematic organization, not necessarily chronological gospels are portraits of Jesus, not snapshots words of Jesus: we have his ipsissima vox (authentic voice), not his ipsissima verba (his very words)

Ways meaning continues to build through storyline of Scripture

Direct Citations (e.g., Rom 4:7-8) Allusions (e.g., Rom 16:20) Themes/Trajectories (e.g., temple) diff. between theme and trajectory trajectory is a theme that is so important to the overarching storyline that's it's integral - there are lots of themes, but only a few trajectories temple is trajectory

Challenges of Bible Interpretation (p. 53 Biblical Interpretation)

Distance of Time Geographical Distance Cultural Distance Distance of Language

Value-judgement error

Don't assign value to a particular definition within a words semantic range over other definitions.

The Components of a "speech-act"

Every time someone communicates something they are committing a speech act. And every speech act has 3 parts: 1. Illocution - the intention of the speech act. what are you trying to communicate 2. Locution - means (language, grammar, genre etc.) - what way/means words that you use to communicate 3. Perlocution - intended response - what do I want listener to do as a result of my communication

Different translational aims in modern translations

Formal Equivalency: translate word for word Young's Literal Translation Dynamic Equivalency: translate the meaning of what is being said ESV, NIV etc. Paraphrase: The Message All translation's fall somewhere on this spectrum from Formal to Paraphrase.

Conclusion - GENEALOGIES, SEED AND THE COMPOSITIONAL UNITY OF GENESIS

From this survey of Genesis it is apparent that the entire book highlights the existence of a unique line of 'seed' which will eventually become a royal dynasty. Members of this lineage enjoy a special relationship with God who actively provides and sustains each new generation. We are also informed that the 'seed' of this lineage, from Abraham onward, will become very numerous and possess the land of Canaan. Thus, Genesis focuses not only on the early ancestry of the David monarchy but also on the beginnings of the nation of Israel. In that the king and the nation are of the 'seed' of Abraham, they share a common origin, and, as recipients of the divine promises, a common destiny. For a long time Genesis has been subjected almost exclusively to the approaches of source and form criticism. Yet, whatever the origin of the material comprising Genesis, the author/compiler has clearly integrated its apparently diverse contents to provide a literary work which exhibits much greater unity than is generally recognised or acknowledged. A thorough investigation reveals that there is hardly a passage in Genesis which does not relate in one way or another to the family line which lies at the heart of the book. This unique family line, therefore, is a crucial aspect of the interpretation of the book of Genesis.

Obadiah (from Johnston 95-139)

Gave encouragement to post-exilic Judah. Judgement declared on Edom. Edom was close to Judah. Trust God's justice when we are badly betrayed by someone close to us.

Jonah (from Johnston 95-139)

God is Creator of all, worthy of worship by all, including pagan sailors and Ninevities, not just Israelites God is ready to forgive all who repent

The church: the Spirit-filled community of salvation history - NT Theology (from Johnston 151-184)

Greek term ekklesia means congregation of assembly Peter calls church "a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession." Baptism The Lord's Supper Leadership in the church

Genres of the NT - Gospels (from Biblical Interpretation 510-541)

Greek word evangelion (gospel) means "good news" formally: narrative account concerning public life and teach of significant person materially: message that God was at work in Jesus' life, death, and resurrection effecting His promises found in the Scriptures gospels = theological biographies

Habakkuk (from Johnston 95-139)

Habakkuk commits his problem to God. When the answers primarily a challenge to renewed faith in God's justice, he responds with an expression of trust in God to preserve him through troubled times.

Types of Biblical Criticism (from IVP Intro book)

Historical - analyses history of text - how it came to be Form - oral Source - written sources behind text Redaction - how gospel writers edited, arranged and altered their sources to achieve a particular theological purpose Literary - examining bible in "final" form Narrative - how plot, characters, settings work together Rhetorical - how authors use literary devices to persuade Canonical - role of books in life of church (interpretation) Structuralism - analyzes literary structures to uncover meaning Reader-response - meaning is determined by reader Liberationist or Feminist - argues for egalitarian readings

Historical-Grammatical Exegesis

Historical - consider the historical context Grammatical - interpret according to rules of grammar (language it was written) Exegesis - we want to be "drawing out" of scripture never putting in. Draw out meaning that is there.

Esther (from Johnston 49-94)

Historically falls between 2 halves of Ezra deals with Jews in Persian capital Susa, rather than in Jerusalem Major players Xerxes Esther Mordecai Haman Festival of Purim No explicit mention of God. Reminds us of God's care for His people, His activity "behind the scenes," and His use of faithful people like Esther and Mordecai, and their willingness to stand up for the right, whatever the outcome.

Historical-Cultural Background (from Biblical Interpretation 312-324)

History: record of events that occurred in the past: Sitz im Leben Culture: Way of Life - Customs - Value System - Economy - Sits im Glauben

Methodological Control

How does this data relate to the speech act of the passage? If we can't answer this well, our historical/cultural analysis may not be serving our exegesis of the text

Ecclesiastes (from Johnston 95-139)

If one tries to make anything other than God the source of meaning in life, it will ultimately fail. Thus, fear God.

Salvation history - NT Theology (from Johnston 151-184)

In the OT In the NT

Key Theological Questions for the Pauline Epistles (from Biblical Interpretation 541-567)

Is there a center of Pauline theology? 3 views 1. Luther: justification by faith over all forms of works-righteousness 2. E.P. Sanders 1977 - one could come to God in Christ apart from the Torah 3. N.T. Wright: "if Jesus is Lord, then Caesar is not probably some combo of the 3 Is there development in Paul's writings? remains unproven

Amos (from Johnston 95-139)

Israel has fallen short of God's standards; judgment has been withheld, but must now fall. exhortations to repent

Revelation - Authorship and Date (from Johnston 265-272)

John 'servant' of God traditional John son of Zebedee, one of 12 apostles, but John is common name, no evidence that it's the same John Likely written during reign of emperor Domitian (or Nero earlier or Trajan later). Near the end of the first century is most likely time-frame.

Type of OT Poetry (from Biblical Interpretation 451-505)

Prayers - Specially worded, extended statements spoken (not sung) to God by individuals or groups. protest - petition for Yahweh to deliver from some humanly unsolvable crisis royal protest - when the king protests imprecation - asking for judgment on enemies penitential psalm - seeking God's mercy for our sin dirge/lament - deep grief and hopeless despair Songs thanksgiving - gratitude to God for deliverance liturgies - text used in worship in which 2 or more speakers participate in response to each other. royal thanksgiving - when the king does it wisdom psalms - more meditative in mood and didactic in intention. focusing on ethical issues. justice/injustice hymn - 2 components: summon to praise and then praise personal hymn Zion hymn yahweh-kingship hymn love song royal wedding song

The Necessity of Scripture

Matthew 4:4 (cf. Deuteronomy 8:3) - "man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from God." General Revelation vs. Special Revelation (cf. Psalm 19) General: the way in which God has revealed Himself to everyone through creation. Special: the word of God (the Bible) - this is where we get knowledge of Law of God, gift of Jesus, atonement etc.

Matthew (from Johnston 185-205)

Matthew brings out more clearly a number of features of teaching and life of Jesus: 1. new way of life - combining blessings of Kingdom of God and demands placed on it's members 2. call to discipleship and mission 3. parables to describe kingdom 4. followers of Jesus form community (Matthew uses term "church") 5. need for followers to be faithful in service to Jesus, while waiting for His return

Issues related to the articulation of the expansion of meaning in the Bible

Metanarrative The NT authors' use of the OT Difficulty vs. impossibility

OT Narratives and the Principle of Selection

OT narratives are selective in what they allow the reader to see. OT narratives are laconic: they tell us what we need to know, but not every little detail Ex. Genesis 9:28-29 After the flood Noah lived 350 years. All the days of Noah were 950 years, and he died. 350 years of Noah's life that the Bible doesn't talk about. Only narrative we get is the vineyard narrative of Noah getting drunk etc. Recapitulation of fall narrative from eden And the Lord God planted a garden...and put the man there And Noah planted a vineyard And she took from the tree and ate And he drank from the wine and became drunk And they knew that they were naked And he uncovered himself in the midst of the tent And there eyes were open and they were naked And Noah woke up from his sleep and he knew what his young son had done. "Cursed are you" "Cursed is Canaan Cain, Abel, and Seth Shem, Ham, and Japheth "Virtually cast as a new Adam after the flood, Noah fails like the old one as a result of the fruit taken from a vine instead of a tree. In a drunken stupor, he lies naked in his tent. There will have to be another descendent to bring final relief from the curse upon the ground." "Many commentators have interpreted Noah's vineyard as the fulfillment of the 'comfort' for which Lamech longed (5:29). Noah's wine provided a pleasant relief for man (e.g. Ps 104:15) from the toilsome work of the crop. But the request of Lamech cries out for relief from the pain of the "cursed" ground, and that is not alleviated by flood or vineyard."

The Forms Within The Gospels (from Biblical Interpretation 510-541)

Parables Good Samaritan, Prodigal Son, Sower many are triadic in nature: story of 1 master/boss/father and 2 subordinates others are shorter and simpler - wise a foolish builder for ex. consider each parable from the perspective of each of the main characters need to consider context (samaratian) Miracle Stories function first christologically to demonstrate who Jesus was, and then salvation-historically to corroborate His claims that the kingship of God was breaking into human history. miracles proved that Jesus was who He said He was Pronouncement Stories short, self-contained narrative that functions primarily to introduce a key climatic saying (or pronouncement) of Jesus. as proverbs they inculcate wise generalizations in the form of concise memorable phrase and should not be interpreted as absolute truths. Example: "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." Other Forms many other forms (most other forms) are present throughout the Gospels as well

Nahum (from Johnston 95-139)

Prophesied against Nineveh God is slow to anger, but will eventually punish oppressors God is refuge in time of trouble.

2 Peter 3:15-16

Refers to the letters of Paul as "Scripture."

Revelation as Prophecy (from Biblical Interpretation 541-567)

Revelation has some generic parallels to Isaiah, Jeremiah and particularly Ezekiel 4 major interpretations of time-orientation of Revelation: Preterist - see all events through ch. 19 as past Futurist - all events from ch. 6 as future Historicist - tracing the development of entire church age Idealist - symbolic presentation of timeless struggle between good and evil "the prophecies predict literal events, though the descriptions do not portray the events literally"

Revelation - Structure (from Johnston 265-272)

See page 268 of Johnston

Revelation - Content (from Johnston 265-272)

See page 269-270 of Johnston

The Bookends of the Bible and The Metanarrative of Scripture

The Garden of Eden as a Prototypical Sanctuary New Creation (Rev 21-22): The Temple-City of God

Genealogies - GENEALOGIES, SEED AND THE COMPOSITIONAL UNITY OF GENESIS

The distinction between 'linear' and 'segmented7 genealogies is discussed by R.R. Wilson, Genealogy and History in the Biblical World (New Haven, Yale University Press 1977) 9. A linear genealogy takes the form: A gave birth to Β, Β gave birth to C, C gave birth to D. A segmented genealogy takes the form: A gave birth to B, C and D; Β gave birth to E, F and G; C gave birth to H, I and J; D gave birth to K, L and M.

Salvation: the goal of redemptive history - NT Theology (from Johnston 151-184)

The kingdom of God Eternal life in the present A future inheritance kept in heaven Reconciliation through justification

The Holy Mountain City (City of God 1-63)

The importance of Jerusalem as a mountain location is conveyed by the designation "Mount Zion," which is often used as a synonym for Jerusalem. Many OT passages portray Jerusalem as a holy mountain. Psalms, Isaiah, Ezekiel, Zechariah, Daniel. Daniel: Nebuchadnezzar's dream (image destroyed by stone that becomes a mountain) foretells the future demise of Babylon and of other human kingdoms opposed by God. All of these will one day be replaced by God's kingdom. The Mountain of God at Sinai Concept of holy mountain is likely derived from the exodus-Sinai experience of the Israelites. The importance of exodus-Sinai experience is underlined by the very detailed description of what took place. No other era is documented so fully. after Red Sea parting they sing "you will bring them in and plant them on our own mountain" When Mount Sinai is introduced it is initially designated "the mountain of God." Mount Sinai and Holiness When Israelites arrive that can't ascend because they have not been consecrated/sanctified. After a covenant ratification ritual that involves the offering of 2 types of sacrifices and sprinkling of blood, prominent representatives of the Israelites safely ascend the lower part of Mount Sinai. God establishes a unique covenant relationship with Israelites that allows them to dwell with Him. God instructs Moses to build portable sanctuary aka tabernacle. God dwells within it. Similarities between Mount Sinai and the portable sanctuary 3 levels: court, holy place, most holy place Tabernacle is sort of a moveable Mount Sinai. Degrees of Holiness and Uncleanness 4 categories: holy and common, clean and unclean God instructs priests to distinguish between them Increasing Holiness: Greater purity, greater perfection, greater wholeness, greater love The Process of Consecration rituals that enable people to move from one degree of uncleanness or holiness to another. Rituals associated with cleansing and atonement. Complex consecration process for Aaron and priests. Called to be holy as God is holy. Levitical instructions represent a particular time and place, don't last forever. The point to something more permanent, they anticipate life in the holy city of God. Dwelling on the Holy Mountain of God Psalm 68:17 "Sinai is now in the sanctuary" Clean hands and pure heart required to ascend the holy mountain. Hallmark of those who will inhabit God's holy city. Conclusion Concept of God living on a holy mountain is a significant them in the OT. Same them frames entire Bible: begins with Eden and ends with New Jerusalem in Revelation. Viewed in its broader literary context, the whole exodus-Sinai story looks forward to the restoration of the harmonious situation that existed between God and humanity prior to Adam and Eve's rebellion against God in the garden of Eden. With its emphasis upon the need to be made holy in order to ascend into God's presence, the exodus-Sinai story provides a model of how salvation will come through the death of Jesus Christ, the ultimate Passover sacrifice. Citizenship in God's holy city belongs only to those who are sanctified by God.

What's the problem with reader-centered interpretation?

The problem of authority (unmitigated authority of the reader) Scripture is always at the mercy of whatever conclusion reader comes to The problem of subjectivity What is "your" truth? There is no truth. People will abuse Scripture to mean whatever they want it to. If the Scriptures can mean anything, then they mean nothing.

Wisdom (from Biblical Interpretation 451-505)

The roots of wisdom thought lie in creation theology. A person acquires wisdom not by receiving divine revelation, but by recording observations about what works or fails to work in daily life in the world created by God. Indirect, limited form of revelation. Types of Wisdom Literature: Proverbs (probable truth, not absolute truth) - descriptive - prescriptive Better-Than - numerical - antithetical Instruction Example Story Reflection Disputation Speech - found in Job - Hymn - Avowal of Innocence Principles of interpretation - Job

Documentary Hypothesis (from Johnston 49-94)

The view that the Pentateuch is a combination of at least four authors: Yahwist, Elohist, Deuteronomist, Priestly Writer

Isaiah (from Johnston 95-139)

Themes of God's sovereignty, holiness and grace. Suffering Servant Pictures of new heaven and new earth.

Exploring the general background of the book (from Biblical Interpretation 312-324)

Things to know about: Author, editor or writer Recipients Date written

5 Types of offerings (from Johnston 49-94)

burnt - brings atonement grain or gift - gift intended to acknowledge God's sovereignty fellowship or peace - restoration of peace after offending God sin or purification - removes ritual defilement or pollution caused by human sin guilt or reparation - makes restitution for a wrongful action by compensating the injured party. sacrifices reveal that there are different dimensions to human sin, and its consequences need to be dealt with in a variety of ways

Malachi (from Johnston 95-139)

collection of 'disputes' between God and the covenant community warning to not become lukewarm looks back to Moses, mediator of the old covenant and forward to a future 'messenger of the covenant', who will make make God's people righteous (Jesus) looks forward to a new prophet Elijah (John the Baptist)

Pentateuch (from Johnston 49-94)

first 5 books of the bible Genesis Exodus Leviticus Numbers Deuteronomy begins with creation and ends with people of Israel poised on the eastern bank of the River Jordan. About to cross into land of Canaan (promised land).

Ezekiel (from Johnston 95-139)

holiness, glory, sovereignty valley of dry bones God's awesome "otherness"

Parallelism (from Biblical Interpretation 373-395)

phenomenon whereby two or more successive poetic lines dynamically strengthen, reinforce, and develop each other's thought

Author-centered interpretation

placing the authority on the author Trying to find what is it that the author is trying to communicate?

Reader-centered interpretation

placing the authority on the reader reader comes to their own interpretation of Scripture everything is relative, subjective

Prophet Story (from Biblical Interpretation 417-450)

recounts events in life of a prophet, particularly those that demonstrate virtues worthy of emulation and, more importantly, that theologically critique the world in with the story's readers lived. purpose is 2 fold: to edify its audience by presenting the prophet as a model of proper conduct and to discredit the larger politico-religious system for its denial of Yahweh as sovereign Lord.

Embedded Genres: Riddles, Fables, and Parables (from Biblical Interpretation 417-450)

riddle: simple statement whose hidden meaning must be discovered fables: teach moral truths through brief stories in which plants and animals behave like people parable: a brief story with common human characters that illustrates an important truth

Reading Horizontally and Vertically (from Biblical Interpretation 510-541)

see chart and notes from lecture vertically (reading through each book) takes precedence over horizontally (reading all 4 accounts of same event) - though both are important and helpful tools kerygma = word of mouth redaction criticism = attempt to lay bare the historical and theological perspectives of a biblical writer by analyzing the editorial (redactional) and compositional techniques and and interpretations employed in shaping and framing the written and/or oral traditions at hand.

Distinctives of Hebrews and the General Epistles (from Biblical Interpretation 541-567)

see page 549

Goal of historical-cultural research and 4 components (from Biblical Interpretation 312-324)

to reconstruct, or at least to comprehend, the historical setting and cultural features of the specific passage as clearly as possible. this task involves explaining: 1. situation of writer 2. situation of original reader 3. relationship between writer and original reader 4. cultural or historical features mentioned in the text