Inspiration: Towards a Christian Interpretation of Biblical Inspiration

Inspiration: Towards a Christian Interpretation of Biblical Inspiration explores the inspired nature of the Bible and its impact on Christian worship, preaching, teaching, the visual arts, literature, and life. It examines the classical view of inspiration expounded by Karl Barth and Raymond Collins and investigates the Bible's inspiring influence on Christian worship, preaching, teaching, the visual arts, literature, and life. It also outlines three approaches to biblical interpretation and sets out ten principles for engaging theologically with the Scriptures. An epilogue highlights two achievements of the book, including distinguishing inspiration from divine revelation and biblical truth and underlining the inspiring effects of the Scriptures as part of the Holy Spirit's work of inspiration.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 27 May 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press

"Towards a Christian Interpretation of Biblical Inspiration" is a comprehensive study that delves into the nature and impact of biblical inspiration. The book, authored by Gerald O. Collins, begins by exploring the classical view of inspiration expounded by Karl Barth and Raymond Collins. It then delves into the inspired origin of the Old Testament, where earlier books played a role in inspiring later ones. The New Testament, throughout, demonstrates the profound influence of the inherited Scriptures, both in direct citations and in numerous echoes.

The work further investigates the inspiring influence of the Bible on Christian worship, preaching, teaching, the visual arts, literature, and life. After clarifying the interrelationship between divine revelation, tradition, and inspiration, two chapters expound on ten characteristics of biblical inspiration, emphasizing their inspiring quality.

O. Collins also discusses a significant consequence of inspiration, biblical truth, and the grounds on which the Church canonized the Scriptures. He presents three approaches to biblical interpretation (authorial intention, reader's role, and text's primacy) and concludes with ten principles for engaging theologically with the Scriptures.

An epilogue highlights two achievements of the book. Firstly, it distinguishes inspiration from divine revelation and biblical truth, thereby helping readers avoid false problems. Secondly, it underscores the inspiring effects of the Scriptures as part of the Holy Spirit's work of inspiration.

Overall, "Towards a Christian Interpretation of Biblical Inspiration" is a valuable resource for scholars, pastors, and laypersons seeking to understand the nature and significance of biblical inspiration. It provides a solid foundation for exploring the Bible's role in shaping Christian faith and practice.

Weight: 262g
Dimension: 193 x 129 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198836773