Principal's Jottings
Short two-minute blog by KEDS Principal Calvin Smith focusing on biblical interpretation, studying theology and Christian education generally. More in the first post.
Biblical interpretation involves various stages and methods. A starting point is asking who authored a biblical text, to whom, when and why. Such background can provide helpful understanding of some books of the Bible, notably those written in response to a particular situation (eg Colossians, Galatians or Hebrews). It helps us reconstruct what the author was reacting to when he wrote.
Also important is exploring the cultural and historical background of a Bible passage. Even understanding the physical world of a text can shed light upon it, for example, topography, or even weather. Consider how Joel likens the land’s two rainy seasons (the former and latter rains) to two outpourings of God’s Spirit (more on this in a later blog post).
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction,
and for training in righteousness… (2 Timothy 3:16 ESV)
Note the claim: ALL Scripture is profitable. Unless, of course, believers avoid parts of the Bible they consider incomprehensible, even “boring”. This unwittingly leads to a “canon within a canon” mindset whereby some Scriptures are regarded as more special than others. But if we take the apostle’s words at face value, then all Scripture yields value. The key is knowing how to delve into a biblical passage—however enigmatic—to discover it.
One passage that, on the surface, appears rather unexciting (dull, even) is Jesus’ genealogy in Matthew chapter 1. At first glance it is just a long list of names and the oft repeated phrase “was the father of”. How can this text possibly be theologically profitable? We will consider.
Once upon a time I blogged, quite a lot in fact (my old blog still exists, albeit now archived online). It was hard work, the posts often long, detailed and redrafted several times.
Yet the time and effort paid off, encouraging debate and ultimately helping to promote KEDS. It even led to an invitation to participate in a Christian televised debate, resulting in a further 8-10 programmes. I often share with my students just how beneficial a good, consistent blog can be for their teaching ministry. 