Hermeneutics Lecture: Utilizing Extra-Biblical Resources in Exegesis

Introduction

• Purpose: Interview with Dr. Elaine Bernius and Dr. David Ward on using extra-biblical resources in the exegetical process.
• Participants:
  • Dr. Elaine Bernius: Old Testament instructor.
  • Dr. David Ward: Known from Biblical Preaching.
• Context: Important for exegetical tools paper and assignment.

Opening Prayer

• Prayed for growth in understanding and glorifying God.

Discussion Overview

• Initial Reactions:
  • Excitement and intimidation about using commentaries and other resources.
• Question: Where to start with resources for beginners?

Types of Resources

• Bible Commentaries:
  • Modern critical commentaries (last 50-100 years).
  • Older commentaries (e.g., John Calvin’s notes).
  • Importance of distinguishing between spiritual insights and modern critical analysis.
• Interlinears:
  • Bridge between original text and understanding.
  • Useful for seeing "under the hood" of translations.
• People as Resources:
  • Engage with diverse perspectives.

Practical Use of Resources

• Starting Strategy:
  • Begin with Interlinear, then consult with people, and engage critical commentaries.
  • Importance of personal engagement before consulting commentaries.
• Commentary Use in Sermon Preparation:
  • Example timeline: Detailed observations 13 days out, interlinear 12 days out, commentaries 11 days out.
  • Be conversant with commentaries, not dependent.

Choosing the Right Resources

• General Advice:
  • No extra-biblical resource is infallible.
  • Engage with multiple sources for checks and balances.
• Commentary Categories:
  • Technical, Semi-technical, Homiletical.
  • Avoid purely applicational/devotional for sermon prep.

Word Studies and Language Proficiency

• Guidelines for Non-Proficient Language Users:
  • Focus on "context studies" rather than word studies.
  • Use resources like biblehub.com for comprehensive understanding.
  • Connect contexts within biblical text for deeper insight.

Encouragement for Students

• For Those Intimidated by Resources:
  • All hard work brings abundance; learning improves over time.
  • Engage repeatedly with tools for familiarity and ease.
  • Use seminary as a space to practice and learn.

Conclusion

• Final Thoughts:
  • The lifelong journey of becoming skilled in interpreting and teaching the Bible.
  • Encouragement to use these resources in assignments and beyond.
• Next Steps:
  • Watch the upcoming video by Dr. Ward for practical guidance on using online resources for the exegetical tools paper.