The Biblical Mind Is Abraham a Hero or a Warning? How Genre Makes or Breaks Your Bible Reading (Andy Judd) Ep. #202
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May 29, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Old Testament scholar Andy Judd, an expert in genre studies, tackles the common pitfalls of biblical interpretation. He reveals how misreading genre can lead to flawed assumptions about figures like Abraham and the nature of biblical laws. Judd emphasizes the need to recognize different genres to avoid misunderstandings, using humor and literary insights to navigate complex texts. He also highlights the importance of biblical literacy in fostering accountable communities, offering fresh perspectives for readers.
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Misreading Abraham as Exemplar
- Many assume Bible stories like Abraham's are exemplary models, leading to misinterpretations.
- For example, pre-Civil War sermons justified slavery by citing Abraham as a slave owner, showing genre confusion.
Use the Boomerang Test
- Be good travelers in biblical interpretation; approach texts with curiosity, not rigid judgments.
- Use the 'boomerang test' by trying a reading and seeing if the text's response makes sense.
Genre Regulates Language Levels
- Genre regulates all language features down to vocabulary and syntax.
- Recognizing genre clues helps avoid confusion and misinterpretation of biblical texts.