Episode #256 - How to Study the Bible's Use of the Bible with Professor Gary Edward Schnittjer and Dr. Matthew Harmon
Dec 18, 2024
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Join distinguished professors Gary Edward Schnittjer and Matthew Harmon as they delve into the intricate relationship between the Old and New Testaments. They explore seven crucial hermeneutical choices that shape biblical interpretation, emphasizing the importance of understanding intertextuality. Discover how biblical authors reference earlier texts, the significance of context, and diverse interpretive methods. Plus, gain insights from their new resource aimed at aiding both students and pastors in navigating scripture while acknowledging diverse scholarly opinions.
Understanding intertextuality in the Bible highlights how Old and New Testament authors build upon previous texts for richer interpretations.
The podcast outlines seven hermeneutical choices that aid in recognizing connections and contexts crucial for properly interpreting scripture.
A thoughtful approach to biblical interpretation requires balancing authorial intent with contemporary readers' insights to uncover deeper meanings.
Deep dives
Intertextuality in the Bible
The discussion centers on the Bible's use of intertextuality, examining how both the Old and New Testaments reference and reinterpret previous scripture. The authors emphasize the continuity in how biblical writers engage with earlier texts, suggesting that understanding this interplay is crucial for contemporary readers. They argue that the New Testament authors, including Jesus, did not create entirely new interpretations but instead built upon the hermeneutic methods found within the Old Testament itself. This approach allows for a richer understanding of scripture, inviting readers to consider the layers of meaning that develop across biblical texts.
Seven Hermeneutical Choices
The podcast outlines seven hermeneutical choices that guide readers in understanding how biblical authors utilize scripture. These choices range from the connections authors make among texts—such as treating texts as connected versus isolated—to considerations of context. For instance, the authors assert the importance of recognizing both horizontal and vertical contexts when interpreting allusions within scripture. These frameworks help clarify how biblical authors interacted with their literary predecessors and allow for a more nuanced interpretation of scriptural passages.
Canonical Context and Reading Strategies
The speakers highlight the importance of reading scripture in light of its canonical context, suggesting that each biblical author built upon existing interpretations from previous texts. This approach acknowledges that readers bring their own experiences and interpretations to the text, while also recognizing that the biblical authors had their own methodologies and intentions. Exploring the various reading strategies that exist within scripture enhances understanding and allows for diverse interpretations based on the interplay of different texts. By encouraging readers to be aware of these dynamics, the authors aim to deepen engagement with the biblical narrative.
Challenges in Textual Interpretation
Throughout the podcast, the complexities of textual interpretation are addressed, particularly concerning key passages like Isaiah 7 and its application in the New Testament. The discussion highlights the difficulties in asserting the intended meanings of texts due to varying translations and the historical contexts surrounding them. For example, the choice of translating the Hebrew 'Alma' as 'virgin' in Isaiah raises questions about the original author’s intent versus later interpretations found in the New Testament. The speakers stress the necessity of understanding these challenges as part of hermeneutical exploration, advocating for a careful consideration of context in determining meaning.
The Role of Readers in Interpretation
Finally, the podcast emphasizes the relationship between biblical authors and modern readers, encouraging readers to be mindful of their interpretive choices. While the authors of scripture had specific intentions, contemporary readers may draw new connections and insights based on their experiences. The speakers suggest that acknowledging the distinction between authorial intent and reader interpretation is vital for responsible biblical interpretation. By fostering these discussions, they hope to inspire readers to engage with scripture critically while valuing the depth and complexity inherent in biblical texts.
In this episode we’re joined by Professor Gary Edward Schnittjer, who is Distinguished Professor of Old Testament in the School of Divinity at Cairn University in Pennsylvania, and Dr. Matthew Harmon, who is Professor of New Testament Studies at Grace Theological Seminary in Indiana. Together they are the authors of How to Study the Bible’s Use of the Bible: Seven Hermeneutical Choices for the Old and New Testaments (published by Zondervan). Over the course of our conversation we talk about this resource that Prof. Schnittjer and Dr. Harmon have developed to help students and pastors study biblical intertextuality. We have fun discussing the book and getting into the weeds a bit on specific textual issues.
We are also excited to say that we have a book and DVD giveaway that we’re participating in for this book (https://www.amazon.com/dp/0310142458/) and lecture materials associated with it (see https://masterlectures.zondervanacademic.com/products/how-to-study-the-bible-s-use-of-the-bible). If you share our episode on social media, and tag us, you could win free copies!
Team members on the episode from The Two Cities include: Dr. John Anthony Dunne, Dr. Brandon Hurlbert, and Dr. Madison Pierce.
