Sola Scriptura: Scripture's Final Authority in the Modern World

Evangelical Protestants believe that the Bible is the only real standard of truth and true Christian praxis for the church. However, this is not how the early Jews and Christians, who wrote the biblical books, viewed their sacred texts. Ben Witherington III's magisterial study invites readers to go back to the time of the writing of the Bible and look at what is said about the sacred texts with a specific focus on how the authority of such texts was viewed. He then walks through Christian history until the point where the phrase "sola scriptura" appears as an authority claim of some kind. The story of "Sola Scriptura" also involves the rise
rise of science, the effect of the Enlightenment, and changes in views about human sexuality that have affected the discussion of the Bible's authority in various ways. Students of Scripture, budding scholars, pastors, and laity alike stand to benefit from this book as Christians of all stripes are confronted by the same crises: a profound historical amnesia that is affecting even churches which are bibliocentric; the general chaos in Western culture that has further alienated younger generations from the church and angered the older generations who still attend church; and the increasing biblical illiteracy in the church, including in its pulpits, which has led to churches taking their signals and sense of direction from the culture rather than the biblical witness itself.

Format: Hardback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2023
Publisher: Baylor University Press

In contemporary times, evangelical Protestants have fervently advocated for the notion that the Bible stands as the sole authentic standard of truth and genuine Christian practice for the church. However, it is crucial to explore whether this perspective aligns with the understanding held by the early Jews and Christians, who were the authors of the biblical texts. Moreover, there exists a need for clarity regarding the interpretation of the renowned phrase "sola scriptura," which has become a guiding principle of the German Reformation. Does it imply that the Bible alone serves as the ultimate source of Christian faith and practice, disregarding any non-biblical traditions, human reasoning, and even personal experiences? Or does it suggest that the Bible holds ultimate authority, while still permitting the inclusion of non-biblical beliefs, rationality, and even experiential insights within the church?

To delve into these profound questions, Ben Witherington III has undertaken a magisterial study, inviting readers to embark on a journey back in time to examine the discussions surrounding the sacred texts during the period of their writing. Witherington guides us through the rich tapestry of Christian history, spanning from the era of the biblical texts to the emergence of the phrase "sola scriptura" as an authoritative claim. Surprisingly, it surfaces for the first time in the fourteenth century A.D., not in the writings of a Protestant. From there, Witherington delves into the subsequent usage of this phrase across various Reformations and into the modern era. The narrative of "Sola Scriptura" intertwines with the rise.

The rise of science, the impact of the Enlightenment, and shifts in attitudes towards human sexuality have all played significant roles in shaping the discourse on the authority. These factors have exerted varying influences on the interpretation and understanding of the Bible's authority, contributing to a profound historical amnesia that affects even churches that prioritize the bibliocentric approach.

This book holds immense value for students of Scripture, budding scholars, pastors, and laypersons alike. As Christians from diverse backgrounds face similar challenges, this book serves as a valuable resource in helping them navigate the complexities of interpreting the Bible's authority in the contemporary context. By delving into the historical, cultural, and intellectual milieu of the past, readers can gain a deeper appreciation for the evolution of the sola scriptura concept and its impact on the development of Christian theology and practice.

In conclusion, "Sola Scriptura: The Authority of Scripture in Christian History" is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the historical and theological significance of the Bible's authority. Through meticulous research and engaging prose, Witherington III provides readers with a valuable resource for understanding the complex dynamics that have shaped the interpretation and application of Scripture throughout Christian history. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the origins, development, and implications of the sola scriptura concept, as well as its relevance in the contemporary world.

Weight: 384g
Dimension: 137 x 212 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781481320467