Church Grammar Stephen Presley on Biblical Theology and Hermeneutics in the Church Fathers
Oct 6, 2025
Dr. Stephen Presley, a scholar at the Center for Religion, Culture, & Democracy, dives into the interplay between biblical theology and cultural engagement in the early church. He explores how patristic methods connect biblical interpretation to worship and communal life. Presley defends the church's role in understanding Scripture and emphasizes the importance of catechesis in forming vision and virtue. He also discusses how the wisdom literature serves as a practical guide for living amidst cultural changes, urging pastors to foster true spiritual growth.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Scripture As Culture-Shaping Vision
- The Bible shapes an entire vision of life, not just isolated doctrines or methods.
- Stephen Presley argues biblical theology must connect scripture to worship, sanctification, and communal life.
Presuppositions Drive Interpretation
- Method matters but is embedded in larger assumptions about God and life.
- Presley highlights that contested readings often differ more in presuppositions than technique.
Center Scripture In The Church
- 'Ecclesial biblical theology' centers the church as the proper home for Scripture.
- Presley insists biblical study detached from the church misses the book's primary purpose.
