Culture and Biblical Hermeneutics: Interpreting and Applying the Authoritative Word in a Relativistic Age / Edition 1

by William J. Larkin Jr.

Overview

This volume grapples with what the author calls "the challenge that historical and cultural relativism poses to the hermeneutical process when applied to the authoritative Scripture." The author addresses this 'challenge' by analyzing both the roots and the current state of biblical hermeneutics and by developing a biblical theology of hermeneutics and culture. Larkin begins his historical analysis by uncovering the origin of the major thought forms and patterns that have shaped contemporary hermeneutical discussion. He then focuses on evangelical and nonevangelical contributions to the debate. Culling the writings of biblical scholars and missiologists, he outlines how they have addressed such issues as the nature and authority of Scripture, the interpreter's preunderstanding, and contextualization. Among other vitally important subjects, Larkin also discusses the role of the Holy Spirit and man in the interpretive process. He concludes with guidelines for interpreting and applying Scripture, concentrating on the cultural factors—both ancient and modern—involved in this procedure. Originally published in 1988 by Baker Book House.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780819192196
Publisher:	University Press of America
Publication date:	09/27/1993
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	402
Product dimensions:	5.98(w) x 8.40(h) x 1.18(d)

About the Author

William J. Larkin, Jr. is Professor of New Testament and Greek, Columbia Biblical Seminary and Graduate School of Missions.

Editorial Reviews

Addresses the challenge that historical and cultural relativism poses to interpreting the Bible, by analyzing the roots and current state of biblical hermeneutics and developing a biblical theology of hermeneutics and culture. Larkin concludes that both ancient and modern cultural factors must be taken into account. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

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