Cultivating Discernment in Interpreting Extrabiblical Examples Theologically
Cultivating Discernment in Interpreting Extrabiblical Examples Theologically
The concept of using examples from outside the biblical text to inform Christian theology and practice is rooted in the biblical emphasis on imitation and the importance of exemplary behavior. Christ is presented as the ultimate example for Christians to follow [1]. The biblical text encourages believers to imitate Christ and other godly individuals, such as the prophets and apostles, who demonstrated faithfulness and perseverance in the face of adversity [2].
In interpreting extrabiblical examples theologically, it is essential to consider the context and principles derived from Scripture. For instance, the early Church Fathers, like John Chrysostom, emphasized the importance of love and charity in their writings, providing a model for Christian behavior [7]. Similarly, the lives of biblical figures such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who demonstrated diligence and devotion to God, serve as examples for Christian living [3].
Theological interpretation of extrabiblical examples involves discerning their relevance and applicability to Christian doctrine and practice. Calvin, in his commentary on Philippians, highlights the significance of perseverance in the face of persecution, citing the example of Paul and other early Christians [6]. This approach underscores the importance of understanding the historical and cultural context of the examples being considered.
Different Christian traditions approach the interpretation of extrabiblical examples with varying degrees of caution and discernment. The Reformed tradition, as represented by Calvin, emphasizes the need to evaluate extrabiblical examples in light of Scripture, ensuring that they align with biblical teachings [4, 5]. In contrast, the Eastern Orthodox tradition, as seen in the writings of John Chrysostom, places a strong emphasis on the importance of love and charity in interpreting Christian behavior [7].
To cultivate discernment in interpreting extrabiblical examples theologically, Christians must engage in careful biblical study and theological reflection. This involves understanding the biblical context, being aware of the historical and cultural background of the examples, and evaluating their consistency with Scripture. As Calvin notes, the efficacy of God's grace is evident in the lives of believers, and this understanding should inform the interpretation of extrabiblical examples [8].
The practice of interpreting extrabiblical examples theologically is not without its challenges. There is a risk of misinterpreting or misapplying these examples, potentially leading to theological or practical errors. Therefore, Christians must approach this task with caution and a deep commitment to biblical fidelity.
Sources
- Torrey's Topical Textbook “Torrey's Topical Textbook: Diligence — Christ, an example -- Mr 1:35; Lu 2:49. Required by God in Seeking him. -- 1Ch 22:19; Heb 11:6. Obeying him. -- De 6:17; 11:13. Hearkening to him. -- Isa 55:2. Striving after perfection. -- Php 3:13,14. Cultivating Christian graces. -- 2Pe 1:5. Keeping the souls. -- De 4:9. Keeping the heart. -- Pr 4:23. Labours of love. -- Heb 6:10-12. Following every good work. -- 1Ti 5:10. Guarding against defilement. -- Heb 12:15. Seeking to be found spotless. -- 2Pe 3:14. Making our call, &c, sure. -- 2Pe 1:10. Self-examination. -- Ps 77:6. Lawful business. -- Pr 27:”
- Easton's Bible Dictionary “Easton's Bible Dictionary: Example — Of Christ (1 Pet. 2:21; John 13:15); of pastors to their flocks (Phil. 3:17; 2 Thess. 3:9; 1 Tim. 4:12; 1 Pet. 5:3); of the Jews as a warning (Heb. 4:11); of the prophets as suffering affliction (James 5:10).”
- Torrey's Topical Textbook “Torrey's Topical Textbook: Early Rising — Christ set an example of -- Mr 1:35; Lu 21:38; Joh 8:2. Requisite for Devotion. -- Ps 5:3; 59:16; 63:1; 88:13; Isa 26:9. Executing God's commands. -- Ge 22:3. Discharge of daily duties. -- Pr 31:15. Neglect of, leads to poverty -- Pr 6:9-11. Practised by the wicked, for Deceit. -- Pr 27:14. Executing plans of evil. -- Mic 2:1. Illustrates spiritual diligence -- Ro 13:11,12. Exemplified Abraham. -- Ge 19:27. Isaac, &c. -- Ge 26:31. Jacob. -- Ge 28:18. Joshua &c. -- Jos 3:1. Gideon. -- Jdj 6:38. Samuel. -- 1Sa 15:12. David. -- 1Sa 17:20. Mary, &c. -- Mr ”
- CCEL (Reformed) “Calvin, Commentary on Genesis, Vol. 1 (Gen 1-23), section 3.7: its numbers, as if its dignity consisted in its multitude. If sometimes, in various places, Religion is less flourishing than could be wished, if the body of the pious is scattered, and the state of a well-regulated Church has gone to decay, not only do our minds sink, but entirely melt within us. On the contrary, while we see in this history of Moses, the building of the Church out of ruins, and the gathering of it out of broken fragments, and out of desolation itself, such an instance of the grace of God ought to raise us to firm”
- CCEL (Reformed) “Calvin, Commentary on Genesis, Vol. 1 (Gen 1-23), section 1.5: more recently been subjected. Still his verbal criticisms are neither few nor unimportant, though he lays comparatively little stress upon them himself. 5 5 The reader is referred, for full information on this subject, to a small volume entitled, “The Merits of Calvin as an Interpreter of the Holy Scriptures,” by Professor Tholuck of Halle. To which are added, “Opinions and Testimonies of Foreign and British Divines and Scholars as to the Importance of the Writings of John Calvin.” With a Preface by the Revelation William Pringle. ”
- CCEL (Reformed) “Calvin, Commentary on Philippians, Colossians, 1-2 Thessalonians, section 9.5: that the Philippians may know that they have been called to the faith of Christ on this condition — that they endure persecutions on his account, as though he had said that their adoption can no more be separated from the cross, than Christ can be torn asunder from himself. Here Paul clearly testifies, that faith, as well as constancy in enduring persecutions, 91 91 “ Les afflictions et persecutions ;” — “Afflictions and persecutions.” is an unmerited gift of God. And certainly the knowledge of God is a wisdom that ”
- CCEL/NPNF (Eastern Orthodox) “John Chrysostom, Homilies on 1 & 2 Corinthians: that of the English translator and of both the Authorized Version and the Revised. “Desire earnestly the better gifts. And furthermore I show you a very excellent way to do it.” The contrast is not between the “gifts” on one hand and love on the other, but between eagerness of emulation and the pursuit of love as a means of attaining the gifts. In this the Greek expositor anticipates the conclusions of the best modern critics, such as DeWette, Meyer, Alford, Hodge, Heinrici, etc. The view is sustained by the natural force of the words used and by”
- CCEL (Reformed) “Calvin, Commentary on Philippians, Colossians, 1-2 Thessalonians, section 67.5: the efficacy of grace, and extol the powers of free will, reason on false grounds. For although God works efficaciously in his elect, and does not merely present the light to them, but causes them to see, opens the eyes of their heart, and keeps them open, yet as the flesh is always inclined to indolence, it has need of being stirred up by exhortations. But what God commands by Paul’s mouth, He himself accomplishes inwardly. In the mean time, it is our part to ask from the Lord, that he would furnish oil to the lam”