The Bible in Theological Reflection: Indications from the History of Scripture

Abstract

Theological reflection is increasingly found at the heart of practical theology. However, little attention has been given to the place and function of the Bible in this process. It is important, not least in the light of the resources found in biblical studies, to be engaged with the Bible in depth. The key lies in the incarnational nature of Christian faith. The Bible is the primary witness to the saving events, focused in Christ, as they are found embedded in the history of Israel and the church. Sacramentally, we are brought into an understanding of God and God's purposes in and through the text. Two themes dominate: the midrashic pattern of the Bible's own history and the history of interpretation; and the canonical function of drawing us back, time and again, to the roots of the faith. The pastoral theologian, therefore, has to be able to handle the Bible with competence and skill.