The gospel story is precisely this: it is a story. It is not a collection of esoteric philosophical musings, nor is it a reflection upon a series of mystical experiences or contemplative insights. The gospel story is a narrative, or rather a series of narratives; it issues from the testimony of those who saw and heard and touched; it is witness to that which became visible and tangible in our human history. - John Colwell, The Rhythm of Doctrine
Daniel & the Lion's Den - Dr. Cyndi Parker | 7.23.23
We do not invite the text into a transformation of its original meaning, into a new application geared toward our thought forms; rather, the text invites us into a transformation of allegiances and commitments, which will manifest itself in behaviors appropriate to our social worlds. - Joel Green, "Practicing the Gospel in a Post-Critical World"
Jonah & the Fish - Dr. Cyndi Parker | 7.16.23
Interpretations of Scripture are not just right and wrong, although at times such categories are useful and necessary. But perhaps ultimately a more adequate way of judging our readings is the way we judge works of art - according to the standards of beauty. To what extent do our readings reveal the intricacy, the wondrous quality of what the biblical writers call ma'asei Adonai, "the works of the LORD"? To what extent do they draw us toward something, a way of being that is - to use Paul's language - more "lovely," more "gracious," more "excellent," "noble," "worthy of praise" (Phil 4:8)? - Ellen F. Davis and Richard B. Hays, The Art of Reading Scripture